On what date did the UK television series Dragon's Den first air?

The UK television series Dragon's Den first aired on 4 January 2005.

The BBC Two programme brought entrepreneurs into a studio to pitch businesses and products to a panel of wealthy investors, known as dragons. Contestants seek investment in exchange for a share of their company, although the dragons can also decline to make an offer.

Dragon's Den became part of a wider international franchise. The format originated in Japan, where it was known as Money Tigers, and versions were later produced in countries including Canada, Australia and the United States. The British edition uses the plural “Dragons” in its title, while some international editions use “sharks” or another local term.

The programme's early success helped make televised business pitches familiar to a broad audience. It also gave viewers a close look at valuation, negotiation, equity and due diligence, though a televised agreement still depends on checks after filming.