Dragons’ Den 2019: Jenny Campbell to step down from show after two years

Jenny will leave the Den for good as her last episode airs next Sunday, February 3.

The entrepreneur joined the BBC programme for season 15 back in 2017 to sit alongside Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones, Touker Suleyman and Tej Lalvani as the formidable dragons.

The 57-year-old is departing the BBC programme to focus on her role within the Prince’s Trust Enterprise.

In a statement, Jenny said: “Having been a fan of Dragons Den since it first aired in 2005 I was absolutely delighted and proud to have the opportunity of becoming a Dragon myself.

“I have invested in businesses and entrepreneurs who I believe I can add real value to personally, and I look forward to working with each of them closely over the next few years.

“It has been a tough decision to step down but I now want to focus on my new role with the Prince’s Trust Enterprise Fellowship Programme which supports young entrepreneurs in setting up and growing their own businesses.”

Jenny also added she’d be helping out her sons with their entrepreneurial journeys.

Investments Jenny made during her time on the programme include a gin business, hemp skincare producer and a truck advertising firm.

Meanwhile, Patrick Holland, Controller of BBC Two said: “Jenny has been a brilliant dragon and the audience have loved her sharp analysis and cutting wit.

“I want to thank her and wish her all the best with her next ventures.

“Dragons’ Den continues to be a foundation stone for the BBC Two schedule with a re-energised visual approach, going from strength to strength with over 2.6 million viewers watching every week.

“I look forward to the next dragon to step into the den.”

Jenny worked in the banking trade for 30 years before pursuing a new challenge.

Jenny was the founder and former CEO of YourCash Europe after taking on a restructure of Hanco ATM Systems.

Ten years after taking on the business, Jenny sold it on for £50 million in 2016.

According to Jenny’s profile on the BBC website for the programme, her favourite business motto is “live by corporate standards, but breathe like an entrepreneur”.

The BBC are now on the hunt for a new Dragon to fill Jenny’s shoes.

Casting is set to take place ahead of filming for series 17 which begins in the spring as the show returns later this year.

But the remaining four dragons are expected to return to the Den.

Dragons’ Den continues Sunday on BBC Two.

source: express.co.uk