CBC has announced that Brian Scudamore, the founder and CEO of 1-800-GOT-JUNK? will join the panel of Dragons for Season 19 of “Dragons’ Den.” Scudamore, a high school dropout, ventured into the world of business at 18 years old, buying a $700 pickup truck to start a junk removal service in Vancouver. Fast forward thirty-five years, and his business has become a global success with 174 franchises across Canada, the US, and Australia.
Scudamore’s portfolio of companies has given thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to turn their business dreams into reality. He has expanded 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.
“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 I’m excited to play even a small role in an iconic show that helps inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in Canada!”
Jennifer Dettman, Executive Director of Unscripted Content at CBC, expressed her enthusiasm for Scudamore’s addition to the panel: “His presence enriches the Den’s dynamic, offering invaluable expertise and inspiration to Canadian audiences and aspiring entrepreneurs.”
Scudamore joins returning Dragons Arlene Dickinson, Wes Hall, Manjit Minhas, and Michele Romanow. Robert Herjavec and Vincenzo Guzzo are departing the Den. Herjavec, an original Dragon, is stepping back to focus on his business priorities, while Guzzo plans to dedicate more time to his children and businesses.
“Dragons’ Den” is a Canadian reality TV show where aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of wealthy investors, or “Dragons,” in the hope of securing financing and partnerships. The show has been a platform for numerous successful businesses and has inspired entrepreneurs across Canada.
