Who presented the first series of the UK television show Dragons' Den?

Adrian Chiles presented the first series of the UK television show Dragons' Den.

The first British series aired in 2005, with Chiles guiding viewers through the entrepreneurs’ pitches and the investors’ questioning. His role was primarily that of presenter and narrator: he introduced businesses, supplied context and helped the audience follow negotiations that could involve valuations, percentages and competing offers.

Evan Davis later became strongly associated with the programme and took over as presenter from the second series. That long association can lead viewers to remember him as the original host, but the opening series was presented by Chiles. Davis had already established a reputation as a BBC economics and business journalist before becoming the show’s familiar on-screen guide.

The presenter’s presence differs from that of the Dragons. The presenter does not normally invest in the businesses; the Dragons are the panel members whose money and expertise are being sought. This distinction is central to the programme’s structure.