Tributes are paid to Dragons’ Den star Hilary Devey, who has died aged 65

Virgin Radio

13 Jun 2022, 07:57

After battling a long illness, Hilary Devey has died at the age of 65, and tributes have been pouring in for the former Dragons' Den star.

She had been staying at her holiday home in Morocco when she passed away on Saturday night (11th June). A spokesperson said: "I can confirm that Hilary sadly died yesterday. She had been ill for some time."

The Bolton-born businesswoman is best known for her role on hit BBC programme Dragons' Den. She also worked on shows such as The Intern and The Secret Millionaire, and was an occasional guest panellist on Loose Women. 

Following her death, Hilary’s fellow Dragons have paid tribute to her. Theo Paphitis wrote on Twitter: “So sad to hear of the passing of the lovely Hilary Devey. She left us all with some fantastic memories, may she rest in peace. My thoughts are with her family. x”

Duncan Bannatyne wrote: "Sad to hear that @HilaryDevey has passed. So young. Too young. Rest in Peace Hilary. X"

Deborah Meaden said: “Very sad to learn that Hilary Devey has passed away at only 65. She was unique in every way and brought grit and warmth with her into the Den. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones. RIP Hilary.truly one of a kind."

Presenter Evan Davis wrote: “So sorry to hear of Hilary Devey's passing. I didn't know her well, but she really brought a wonderful grit to the Den; it was quite different to anything we'd encountered and audiences loved it. She'll be long remembered.”

Dragon Steven Bartlett wrote: “Saddened to hear about the passing of the wonderful, unique, inspiring former Dragon, Hilary Devey. She was truly one of a kind and her legacy lives on in all the people she helped, the businesses she supported and the Den that she graced.”

The official Dragons’ Den page wrote on Twitter: “We are extremely saddened to hear of the loss of Dragons’ Den legend Hilary Devey, who will always hold a unique place in the hearts of our production team. Her straight-talking approach made her a firm favourite with viewers, and our thoughts are with her family and friends.”

Peter Jones added: “So sad to hear the news that Hilary Devey has passed away. She was an inspiring woman and it was great to spend time with her on Dragons’ Den. Sending my deepest condolences to her family.”

Hannah Wyatt, managing director for Factual Entertainment and Events at BBC Studios, said: "Hilary Devey will always hold a unique place in the hearts of Dragons' Den viewers and the programme team. We are all extremely saddened by her loss and our thoughts at this time are with her family and friends."