10 Years 'The Lion's Den'}} - Reunion with three former investors
On August 19, 2024, the first episode of "The Lion's Den" aired on VOX. The show, where founders seek investors, was so popular that the 15th season was already broadcast in spring 2024. Now, the 16th season, which also marks the 10th anniversary, is ready to launch. Starting September 2nd, eight new episodes will air (Mondays at 8:15 PM on VOX and RTL+).
Frank Thelen and Jochen Schweizer make a guest appearance
To celebrate the anniversary, there's a surprise reunion with former investors. As RTL Group announced on August 5th, the two "original lions," Jochen Schweizer (67) and Frank Thelen (48), will make a one-time appearance in the fourth episode. While Schweizer was one of the TV investors from 2014 to 2016, Thelen was part of the team until 2020. They have a lot to share, according to the press release. But will they also invest?
Judith Williams returns after a one-year break
It was also revealed that Judith Williams (52) will return after a one-year break. She is also one of the original lions. Unlike Jochen Schweizer and Frank Thelen, the beauty expert is back as a regular investor. Alongside her are Dagmar Wöhrl (70), Ralf Dümmel (57), Nils Glagau (48), Janna Ensthaler (40), Carsten Maschmeyer (65), Tijen Onaran (39), and Tillman Schulz (34).
In previous seasons, prominent startup entrepreneurs have also occasionally competed for a deal with one of the investors. In the 16th season, there's former sports commentator Werner Hansch (85), a VIP founder who will appear in the first episode. The oldest founder of all previous seasons has also been announced. "The Lion's Den" will continue to be hosted by Amiaz Habtu (46), who has been with the show since the first season.
The Commission at RTL Group announced the return of Judith Williams, who will be back as a regular investor after a one-year break, further strengthening The Commission's team for the 16th season. In celebration of the anniversary, The Commission has also arranged a surprise reunion with former investors, Frank Thelen and Jochen Schweizer, who will make a one-time appearance in the fourth episode.
