Dragons’ Den fans were quick to air their dissatisfaction mere moments into the new series.
The BBC show’s 22nd series launched on Thursday (January 9), with regular faces Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones, Sara Davies, Steven Bartlett, and Touker Suleyman returning as the formidable Dragons.
However, joining them was special guest Joe Wicks, the renowned health and fitness guru also known as The Body Coach. His presence did not sit well with some viewers, who openly criticised the decision to include guest Dragons in the show, reports the Express.
One viewer expressed their irritation: “FFS! – New series of #DragonsDen on BBC and “guest influencers” to be a regular part of the show, tonight Joe Wicks. How long before we get a drag queen on the panel as is omnipresent on all BBC output?”
Another was decidedly unhappy with the current direction of the show: “They’re just ruining this programme. The celeb guests and the clearly targeted to them businesses… I’m out.”
Adding to the chorus of disapproval, one commented: “Can’t fu****g BEAR guest dragons. Just to shoehorn in a schmaltzy hook. Get them OFF. I want Deborah and Peter fighting over a pitch, not some plonker wheeled in which messes the vibe up. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
A different viewer voiced a straightforward objection: “You don’t need guest judges!!!!”
While one echoed the question many were asking: “Why do Dragons Den need to add in guest judges?
Another fan was adamant that celebrity guest Dragons were unnecessary: “There really is zero need for celebrity guest dragons.”
While some viewers were not convinced, one fan expressed their approval on social media: “Loving Joe Wicks on #DragonsDen”
Another changed their initial opinion, commenting: “Must say, my ‘can Joe Wickes just bore off already? ‘ stance has been completely eradicated. Superb addition to #DragonsDen – have mad respect for him after that one.”
Joe Wicks, 39, shared his excitement about joining the show, saying: “It was an honour to be asked. I get a lot of joy from helping others and seeing other people succeed so I thought it would be a really wonderful opportunity to back someone and see another person live out their dream.”
When questioned about how he felt among the seasoned Dragons, the father of four confessed: “It’s been fun. They have been so nice and supportive, and they told me I was doing a good job which boosted my confidence.”
He added: “We are all getting on really well. I am learning from them and the questions they ask.”
Dragon’s Den is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.