Which entrepreneur became a dragon on Dragon's Den after Rachel Elnaugh left the panel?

Deborah Meaden became a dragon on Dragon's Den after Rachel Elnaugh left the panel.

Meaden joined the British programme in its third series, becoming one of its most recognisable investors. She is an English businesswoman whose career includes work in family businesses, leisure and retail. Her investment style on the show is generally associated with direct questioning about sales, margins, ownership and the practical route to growth.

Rachel Elnaugh was one of the original dragons when the UK version launched in 2005. After Elnaugh's departure, Meaden joined the panel and became a long-term presence. This timing distinguishes her from later additions such as Kelly Hoppen, Sara Davies and Steven Bartlett.

Meaden's television profile has extended beyond Dragon's Den, including appearances on Strictly Come Dancing and other programmes. Nevertheless, her role as a dragon is based on her position as an investor assessing entrepreneurs' proposals rather than simply judging presentation style.