The BBC show has returned for a new series but with a big change
21:35, 05 Feb 2026Updated 21:36, 05 Feb 2026
A new guest stepped into Dragons’ Den(Image: BBC/Simon Pantling)
Dragons’ Den viewers have complained that the BBC show needs a new permanent investor rather than a string of guests each week.
The popular programme has returned for a new series, but Dragon Sara Davies has stepped back from the Den, leaving an empty seat alongside Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones, Touker Suleyman and Steven Bartlett.
Instead of filling it with a permanent investor, the series will feature guest Dragons. Last week saw REFY co-founder and CEO Jenna Meek join the panel, while former footballer Gary Neville took part in the episode that aired on Thursday night (February 5).
While fans are thrilled to see the show back on screen, some have suggested they would like to see someone join for good.
Gary Neville stepped in as an investor(Image: BBC screengrab)
“Can we have a permanent Dragon please rather then all the pop ups!?” one person posted on X, which was formerly Twitter.
“It’s guests every week,” moaned another, as another asked: “Where is Sara?”
“Have I missed something, why is Gary Neville on Dragons’ Den?” asked another viewer.
Someone else posted: “”Really prefer this with the 5 permanent Dragons. Sara is big miss.”
Another commented on the platform: “I don’t like Dragons’ Den with the new people as guests, they come in for one episode and lo and behold there is a business pitching and idea that is up their alley and you know they will invest. Keep the og format. Raw business ideas being pitched to great entrepreneurs.”
Sara announced last year that she was stepping away from the BBC favourite to focus on her own crafting business.
She told fans on Instagram: “As this last run of Dragons’ comes to an end I have to say I’ve loved every minute of this series so far and I’m so proud of the businesses I’ve invested in this year!
Sara announced she was stepping back from Dragons’ Den last year(Image: BBC)
“As a lot of you will know, I’ve taken up my position again as CEO of Crafter’s Companion and my business is my big priority this year. And when I commit to a business, I really commit, which is why I find Dragons’ Den such a rewarding role. As well as filming an incredible show, being a Dragon requires so much dedication and time behind the scenes as you join the life of each business you invest in.
“It means seeing through your investment and committing to your part in that organisation. It’s so much more than a TV show. That’s why taken the decision to step away from the Den for now, to focus on my own business, which was my first baby!”
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Dragons’ Den airs on BBC One.