Which former Dragon's Den investor left the regular panel after the show's twelfth series?

Duncan Bannatyne left the regular Dragon's Den panel after the show's twelfth series.

Bannatyne was one of the original investors when the British programme began in 2005. He became recognisable for his blunt assessments and for asking entrepreneurs detailed questions about costs, sales and ownership. He departed the regular panel in 2014, after series 12.

His departure was part of the continuing turnover among the dragons. The show retained long-serving investors while introducing replacements, so the panel seen by viewers in later years differed substantially from the original group.

Bannatyne is also known for building a business empire associated with health clubs, care homes and hotels. His television role increased his public profile, but Dragon's Den was only one part of his wider business career. He should not be confused with Peter Jones, who remained the sole investor from the original line-up to appear throughout the series.