BBC presenter suspended over allegedly requesting sexually explicit photos from underage teen

By Michael P. Hill Article may include affiliate links

The BBC has suspended an unnamed member of its on-air team for allegedly paying an underage female for sexually explicit photographs.

BBC was careful not to name the presenter in question, which immediately set of a storm of speculation as to the identity of the anchor.

The suspension was announced July 7, 2023.

In the days that followed, various BBC presenters went public, confirming that they were not the presenter in question.

The suspension comes after a May 2023 report from a woman who said that the presenter allegedly requested sexually explicit photos from her daughter. Reports originally suggested the girl was 17-years-old at the time.

Reports claimed the person paid £35,000 ($45,000) for the photos.

In the U.K., possessing, taking or transmitting sexually explicit photos of anyone under 18 is illegal.

Additional reporting would later reveal that Edwards’ alleged contact with the teen began when she was 17, though that information was later denied by an attorney representing the girl.

“New allegations were put to us on Thursday of a different nature and in addition to our own enquiries we have also been in touch with external authorities, in line with our protocols,” the broadcaster said in a statement.

Meanwhile, both BBC and law enforcement continue to investigate the issue.