In the BBC television show Dragon's Den, on what date did the UK series first premiere?

The story behind the answer

The BBC television show Dragon's Den first premiered in the UK on 4 January 2005.

The programme was adapted for British television from the Japanese business reality format Money Tigers. It gives entrepreneurs a short presentation opportunity before a panel of wealthy investors, who may offer capital in exchange for an ownership stake.

Dragon's Den became part of the BBC's factual-entertainment schedule and helped popularise televised business pitching in Britain. The UK version has since produced numerous spin-offs, catchphrases and widely discussed negotiations.

The premiere date is sometimes confused with the launch dates of international versions. Dragon's Den is a British adaptation, while other countries use titles such as Shark Tank or Lions' Den for related formats.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

Add question to a list

Choose a list to keep this question in: