Dragons' Den star Touker Suleyman has announced he is leaving the BBC show after 10 years, saying it is time for 'new blood' to take his seat in the den16:33, 06 Jun 2026Updated 16:33, 06 Jun 2026Dragons' Den favourite Touker Suleyman has revealed he's stepping away from the programme after a decade in the famous den.‌The 72 year old entrepreneur shared the news via Instagram, posting a heartfelt statement.‌"After ten extraordinary years as a Dragon on BBC's Dragons' Den, I have made the decision to step down from the show," he revealed. "It has been an immense privilege to sit in that chair, to meet so many passionate and talented entrepreneurs and to invest in business and people I truly believe in.‌"The show gave me a platform not only to invest in leading British founders – and I hope in some small way I made a difference to those who stood opposite me."‌Touker went on to discuss how, at this stage of his life, he'd been considering what truly mattered to him.He spoke of his satisfaction in securing deals, scrutinising pitches, and the privilege he experienced when supporting enterprises.Nevertheless, Touker maintains that 'all great institutions must evolve' and believes the moment has arrived for 'new blood' to occupy his position in the den.‌"Fans of the series can still catch me in action," he consoled his followers. "I hope you will tune in and enjoy what has been a truly memorable run in the Den. Stepping back from Dragons' Den will give me more time to mentor the entrepreneurs I have invested in and to give back the fifty years of business experience I have accumulated." he reassured supporters.He concluded by paying tribute to the BBC, past and present Dragons, and the entrepreneurs brave enough to enter the den, calling his time on the show 'one of the greatest joys of his career'.A business titan, Touker is best recognised as the owner of British menswear brand, Hawes & Curtis, and joined the Den in Series 13.‌During his decade on the programme, he invested more than £3million, most notably in Tru Tension, Gener8 Ads, Mood Bears and BodyXCore.Touker's fellow Dragons shared their support in the comments section, with Sara Davies writing: "You are just the most amazing dragon Touks and it's been a highlight of my career sitting beside you for 6 years and soaking up your wisdom. You'll be a huge miss on the show! Love you tons!!!"Article continues belowPeter 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 and [heart emoji]."Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .