Dragons' Den - Does anybody know what the dragons are like in real life?

[WeBuiltThisBuffetOnSausageRoll]

I do love a bit of Dragons' Den and - like most viewers, I'm sure, I've formed my opinions over the years about the different dragons and thought about who I'd choose to go with, if I were on the programme and had received multiple offers.

However, it occurs to me that I have no idea whatsoever what the dragons are like when the camera stops rolling. Do you see their true self on TV? Are the really 'nice' ones ruthless and take-no-prisoners in real life? Are the ones who come across as brusque and hard-nosed actually big softies in reality?!

Does anybody know a dragon (past or present) well or has had business/social dealings with them? Do they genuinely practise the various ethical and socially-minded views that they espouse on DD - in personal life or in business? Have you actually been on the show?!

Any insider knowledge - please do spill the beans! No need to specifically name anybody although a big clue would be appreciated if you have a less-than-glowing report of them....

YES, that was it - thank you, Igotmylipstickon !

I think she 100% made the right call on that one - it seemed totally exploitative for a quick buck and she was very wise not to want to support or be associated with it.

@WeBuiltThisBuffetOnSausageRoll Totally agree. I remembered it because it was so weird and was delighted that she expressed her concerns about it.

@jaundicedoutlook

Not the dragons, but DH had quite a few dealings with Evan Davies, probably about 15 years or so ago now, and said he was a really nice chap. Used to wear leather trousers not visible under the desk on Newsnight as you could only see his shirt and jacket on camera!

Evan Davies is a proper punk. I think he's ace!

Evan is great, but I must confess that I fail to see what the actual point is of having him on the show. All he ever seems to do is tell you exactly what you just saw and heard 5 seconds earlier, maybe with a terrible pun thrown in!

If he were, say, signing for the deaf or simultaneously translating for Welsh speakers, I'd totally get it; but he just literally repeats audibly what you've just heard audibly a few seconds earlier! Maybe it's a catch-up service for any goldfish who happen to be watching

I know nothing about Deborah Meaden but I love her for her beautiful natural face.