From a media release:

CBC today announced that 1-800-GOT-JUNK? founder and CEO Brian Scudamore will join DRAGONS’ DEN for Season 19. The visionary behind one of Canada’s most recognizable brands and the world’s largest junk removal company, Scudamore enters the Den ready to infuse the entrepreneurial landscape with his wealth of expertise and experience. Fans of Dragons’ Den can stream seasons 6 through 18 on the free CBC Gem streaming service.

A high school dropout, at 18 years old Scudamore ventured into the world of business – buying a $700 pickup truck to start a one-man junk removal service in Vancouver. Fast forward thirty-five years, and today that business has become a global success with 174 franchises across Canada, the US and Australia. Scudamore didn’t stop there, expanding his franchise business model into painting and home detailing, launching WOW 1 DAY PAINTING and Shack Shine under the umbrella company O2E Brands, which has been named one of Newsweek’s Most Loved Workplaces. Together, Brian’s portfolio of companies has given hundreds of aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to turn their business dreams into reality. 

“I’m excited to be joining the team of Dragons on this iconic show that has impacted so many people,” said Scudamore. “I’ve been a huge fan of the show since the beginning and so I’m excited to play even a small role in an iconic show that helps inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in Canada!”

“With Brian Scudamore taking a seat on the panel this year, the show gains not only a seasoned, well-known entrepreneur, but also a mentor committed to nurturing the country’s next generation of great innovators,” said Jennifer Dettman, Executive Director, Unscripted Content, CBC. “His presence enriches the Den’s dynamic, offering invaluable expertise and inspiration to Canadian audiences and aspiring entrepreneurs.”

As an advocate for up-and-coming talent, Scudamore has contributed as a board member for the Young Entrepreneurs Organization (YEO) and authored two best-selling books on entrepreneurship: “WTF?! (Willing to Fail): How Failure Can Be Your Key to Success” and “BYOB: Build Your Own Business, Be Your Own Boss.” His achievements also include receiving the Fortune Small Business’ Best Bosses Award and the prestigious Best Company to Work For award, which he has won three times. He has been honoured in The Globe and Mail’s Top 40 Under 40 list and recognized by the International Franchise Association as an Entrepreneur of the Year.

Scudamore joins Arlene Dickinson, Wes Hall, Manjit Minhas and Michele Romanow, as Robert Herjavec and Vincenzo Guzzo depart the Den. 

Herjavec was one of the original Dragons back in 2006. After departing the series for a decade, he returned for two seasons, coinciding with his family’s move back to Canada. While he is a staunch supporter of Canadian entrepreneurs, his business priorities have him stepping back from doing more television. 

“As I reflect on my return to Dragons’ Den, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to champion Canadian entrepreneurship,” says Herjavec. “I’ll forever cherish the experience shared and the connections made, and I’m excited to see the continued impact of the Den on future entrepreneurs.”

Guzzo’s departure from the series marks the end of an incredible six season run, characterized by his unique blend of entrepreneurial insight and captivating charisma. Moving forward, he will be focusing on his children and businesses, as he prepares for the next generation of Guzzos to take on the world. 

“I am truly grateful for the incredible six-year journey on Dragons’ Den, and extend my thanks to my fellow Dragons, amazing entrepreneurs, and the viewers who made this experience unforgettable,” said Guzzo. “A parting thought: if they tell you it’s impossible, make sure to prove them wrong. It’s the fuel you need to keep going when you are thinking of giving up. Keep dreaming, innovating and making things happen!” 

Production on Season 19 of DRAGONS’ DEN’s will begin later this spring at CBC in Toronto. Molly Middleton and Amy Bourne are Senior Producers. 

Image courtesy of Jeff Topham.