Which Dragon replaced Rachel Elnaugh on the BBC series Dragons' Den in 2006?

Deborah Meaden replaced Rachel Elnaugh on the BBC series Dragons' Den in 2006.

Meaden joined the programme's investment panel during its third series, taking over from Elnaugh. She became one of the show's longest-serving and most recognisable Dragons, known for focusing on the entrepreneur's figures, margins and ability to scale a business.

Before joining television, Meaden built a career in business and investment. She had experience in the leisure and tourism sector, including the family-owned Weststar Holidays group. Her background gave her a practical investor profile that contrasted with the more media-focused way some viewers understood the show.

The timeline can be confusing because the panel has changed several times. Meaden's arrival followed Elnaugh's departure and came before later additions such as Kelly Hoppen. It is also separate from the question of who was the first woman to serve as a regular Dragon: that distinction belongs to Elnaugh.