The new series of Dragon's Den flew back onto our screens and brought the usual mix of the wierd, the misguided and the tearful. But how do we view Dragon's Den? Is it an inspirational business show or is it just another ritual humiliation show in sharp suits (in most cases without the crash helmets...most cases!).
Dragon's Den actually originated in Japan, the land of Takeshi's Castle, a show who's format set the bar for more recent shows such as Wipeout. It was first broadcast there in 2001 under the name Money Tigers, but first broacast in the UK in January 2005. It is the UK format that has spread across the rest of the world.
But now entering it's 8th series, has the Dragon's Den programme changed, not in format or style, but in the minds of those viewing the programme? Now we know the likes of Peter Jones, Duncan Bannatyne and Theo Paphitis, not just on screen but by the plethora of books, sites, blogs and programmes has the 'inspirational' story gone. There were times in the last series when each of the characters lived up to their charactures...brilliantly spoofed by Harry Enfield and Paul Whitehouse.
There was a time when the Peter, Duncan, Theo, Deborah and James (et al) by their mere prescence and associated backstory would generate the kind of inspirational feelings that made the dream of running a successful business a reality. Even those entering the den sparked the 'I could do that' feel, yet there were times in the first episode of the new series that you got the impression that 'good for TV' had taken over. It almost lifted a veil.
The dragons, because of what they've achieved will alway be an inspiration as individuals, that isn't in question. What is though is this, does the format create inspirational feelings to go out and start a business? Sadly as a long time fan of the show I fear not.
What we are left with is ritual humiliation on a par with watching Japanese gameshow contestants being pummelled by massive padded swings. Sometimes it is eye-wateringly hilarious, and other times a strong feeling of pity just pervades everything. A few forgotten numbers here or there and that's all that is required for the humiliation to begin. Big Brother is ending because we've tired of watching people putting themselves up for similar humiliation, so is it time for a change in format or even putting the dragons back in their respective castles?
There was an exception to this general feeling that has been gathering momentum over the last few episodes. Kirsty Henshaw gave a great demonstration on just how to inspire anyone to start a business. Taking 2 (and a half) jobs to pursue her dream, fantastic. A real inspiration, especially to women of all ages, much more so than any WAG or TV star. But, Kirsty's fantastic success was slightly tinged with a fear for me, that we are about to embark on a Dragons Den series with more 'journey's' and weepy stories than inspirational stories. Kirsty and her story was the perfect balance, and perhaps began to restore some of the balance between inspiration and humiliation!
