Steven Bartlett has clarified a social media post which had suggested that he was leaving Dragons' Den after three series.
The entrepreneur, known for his Diary of a CEO podcast, appeared to announce his exit in a lengthy Instagram post earlier on Thursday.
He had written: "One last day on set! Let me just say... It's not lost on me what an honour it has been to be asked to participate in this show.
"A 12 year old childhood dream come true! To sit between two of my childhood role models @deborahmeaden @peterionescbe has been one of the most surreal experiences of my life.
"Thank you to @saradaviescc & @touker_suleyman too, they've been kind, supportive and hilarious since before I stepped on set 2-3 years ago! Dragon's Den is an important piece of British treasure.
"My goal is to leave this platform better than I found it so that all the kids out there that are sat watching it at home - like I was once upon a time get a valuable window into entrepreneurship that might empower them to create businesses of their own!
"The show is thriving. Views have climbed 'year over year', the show is innovating, it feels fresh and the pitches are getting better and better. Hope you enjoy this season, it's my favourite. And thanks to the BBC for having me."
Fans were quick to pay tribute to him and his time on the show, prompting Bartlett to clarify: "I'm not leaving Dragons Den, it's the last day of filming this series! I was thanking the team for a great season."
Bartlett had been filming the 21st series - due to air on BBC One early next year - which will feature newcomers Gary Lineker and Emma Grede as the alternating sixth guest Dragon.
Neil Wilkes
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