Touker Suleyman is absent from the first episode of Dragons' Den's return on BBC One. The businessman confirmed in June that he was stepping back from the BBC programme, months after Sara Davies also announced her exit. The pair have now both been replaced as Dragons' Den returned.
Touker's Statement on Stepping Back
Touker previously shared: "At 72, I find myself reflecting on what matters most. I am proud of every deal made, every pitch challenge, and every founder I had the honour of backing. But I firmly believe that great institutions must evolve, and it is time for new blood to take my seat in the Den and bring their own vision to this brilliant show."
Touker did however confirm he would still appear on screens in the upcoming new series, adding: "Fans of the series can still catch me in action one last time - my final episodes will be airing later this year."
New Dragons and Final Episodes
The BBC show, which debuted in 2005, launched its 23rd series earlier this year, and following a break, has returned on Thursday, August 20, with the season's final episodes. For the first time, female Dragons outnumbered the males in the Den, as Jenna Meek and Susie Ma joined forces with Deborah Meaden, Steven Bartlett and Peter Jones, with the guest Dragons stepping in for Touker and Sara, reports Wales Online.
Days after announcing his Dragons' Den exit, Touker celebrated his 73rd birthday, and confirmed that though he was stepping down from the show, he was not retiring. He wrote: “Today I am fortunate to celebrate my 73rd Birthday. I am grateful for every day I spend working hard, in my various businesses and helping others. “In the next 4 weeks I will announce a new project I have been working on for a year, which I am very excited about. “So if you think I should be retiring, it’s quite the opposite. Yes I have retired from Dragons Den , my last appearance will be on BBC2 shortly, but I had 10 great years on the show. “Time to let younger Dragons on the show. No big celebrations today, just grateful for everything and every day, and my good health. Thank you.”
Co-Stars Show Support
After Touker shared the news of his Dragons' Den departure, his co-stars rushed to share their support. Steven Bartlett wrote: “We’ll miss you T! Thank you for your wisdom and kindness and taking the time to coach me when I first started. I’ll never forget your generosity. See you for dinner soon!” Peter Jones added: “Touker, it’s been the best 10 years! You have been incredible and helped change so many people’s lives. I’ve loved every moment, from your very first day to your last, spending time with you in the Den and after filming, talking about the day. Will miss you. Your contribution to Dragons’ Den and the many lives you have changed for the better is special. Sending you a huge PJ [hug] and [love].”
Dragons' Den returns on Thursday, August 20 at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
