Dragons' Den star Hilary Devey dies aged 65

vt-author-image

By VT

Article saved!Article saved!

Former Dragons' Den star Hilary Devey has died at the age of 65, it has been confirmed by a rep for the businesswoman.

A spokesperson said in a statement to The Mirror: "I can confirm that Hilary sadly died yesterday. She had been ill for some time."

She passed away in Morocco on Saturday following a long illness.

Devey is perhaps best known for appearing on the popular BBC show Dragons' Den before going on to present the series The Intern. She joined Dragons' Den in 2011 following the departure of James Caan.

She appeared alongside her fellow "dragons" Peter Jones, Theo Paphitis, Duncan Bannatyne and Deborah Meaden.

Devey had originally risen to fame in the UK after she appeared on The Secret Millionaire in 2008 and later presented The Business Inspector in 2010.

She got her big break, however, on the investing show Dragons' Den where her forthright approach was a hit with viewers.

Fellow Dragons' Den star Theo Paphitis has since paid tribute to Devey, writing: "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."

Devy was responsible for launching Pall-Ex, a palletised freight network, which eventually grew into an international network with a combined turnover of over £100 million ($123 million).

She also campaigned for a number of charities. She served as Vice President of The Carers Trust and was a patron for The Stroke Association and Fresh Start - New Beginnings.

Fans of the TV personality have taken to social media to share their condolences upon hearing the tragic news.

One wrote: "Sad news. Hilary came to our school awards evening once. Such a lovely lady. RIP."

Another said: "So sad to hear of the passing of @HilaryDevey today. A lovely woman with a fierce spirit. Will be sadly missed."

A third commented: "Sad to hear Hilary Devey has passed away. What an iconic woman. Her seasons of Dragon’s Den will always be some of my favourites ever. Shoulder-padded icon forever."

Featured image credit: Stills Press / Alamy