Who was the first presenter of the UK television show Dragon's Den?

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Adrian Chiles was the first presenter of the UK television show Dragon's Den.

Chiles presented the programme when it began in 2005, introducing entrepreneurs and guiding viewers through their negotiations with the investors. His role was separate from that of the Dragons: he did not decide whether to invest and was not part of the business panel.

Evan Davis later became the best-known long-term presenter of the series, taking over from Chiles in 2009. Davis's role similarly involved explaining the pitches and the deals rather than acting as an investor. The change of presenter did not alter the central format of entrepreneurs seeking finance and expertise.

Adrian Chiles is also known for presenting football and other television programmes, including The One Show with Christine Bleakley. His Dragon's Den tenure belongs to the show's first era, so he is sometimes confused with Davis when the programme's earlier history is recalled.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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