Which original Dragons' Den investor was an American entrepreneur and author?

Doug Richard was the American entrepreneur and author among the original Dragons' Den investors.

Richard is an American entrepreneur, educator and author who became known in Britain through his role on the first series of Dragons' Den. His background included technology businesses and start-up investment, giving him experience in evaluating early-stage companies.

He was part of the original panel alongside Peter Jones, Duncan Bannatyne and Theo Paphitis. Richard did not remain a regular dragon throughout the programme’s later history, which distinguishes him from investors who became more strongly associated with the long-running panel.

The wording matters because several original dragons were prominent British business figures. Richard’s nationality and career as an entrepreneur and author identify him clearly. He should not be confused with Peter Jones, Duncan Bannatyne or Theo Paphitis, all British investors with separate business histories.