Die Höhle der Löwen Jury 2026: Meet the Investors of Season 19
BERLIN, 02 March 2026 — The hunt for Germany’s next big business breakthrough has resumed. As Die Höhle der Löwen (DHDL) enters its 19th season this March, the spotlight shines once again on the high-profile panel of investors. Since its debut on VOX in August 2014, the show has transformed from a niche business programme into a cultural phenomenon, turning entrepreneurs into household names and household products into multi-million euro “cash cows.”
The Current Line-up: Who are the Lions in 2026?
The 2026 jury remains a strategic blend of retail giants, tech visionaries, and branding experts. While the roster has seen various “Guest Lions” over the years, the core panel for the current season features a familiar mix of veteran investors and newer faces who have solidified their positions in the Den.
The Retail King: Ralf Dümmel
Often referred to as the “King of Shelves,” Ralf Dümmel remains a central figure in the 18th and 19th seasons. Known for his ability to place products in over 40,000 retail outlets overnight, Dümmel is the go-to investor for mass-market consumer goods. Recent reports highlight his continued success with practical household solutions, such as the “Eezee” grout deal, which he recently described as a “cash cow.”
The Tech Veteran: Carsten Maschmeyer
Carsten Maschmeyer (65) continues to lead the charge for digital startups and scalable tech business models. His focus remains on international growth and professionalising young founders, often competing fiercely for deals involving software or innovative services.
The Grand Dame: Dagmar Wöhrl
Former politician and family entrepreneur Dagmar Wöhrl (70) brings a wealth of experience in the hospitality and social entrepreneurship sectors. Her investments often focus on sustainability and family-run values, providing a balanced perspective to the more aggressive retail strategies of her colleagues.
The Beauty Expert: Judith Williams
After a brief hiatus to focus on family and her beauty empire, Judith Williams has returned to the panel. Her expertise in teleshopping and branding makes her the primary target for founders in the cosmetics and fashion industries.
The New Guard: Schulz, Ensthaler, and Onaran
The jury is rounded out by the younger generation of investors:
- Tillman Schulz (35): A food industry specialist and third-generation entrepreneur.
- Janna Ensthaler: A sustainability-focused investor with a background in “Green Tech.”
- Tijen Onaran: A specialist in diversity and female empowerment in the business world.
The Evolution of the Jury (2014–2026)
The show has seen significant changes since its inception. In the first season (2014), investment promises totalled approximately €1.87 million, though only about €0.44 million (23.5%) was actually paid out after the due diligence phase. Today, the “Lions” are more selective but also more integrated into the post-show growth of their startups.
| Investor | Specialism | Status (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Ralf Dümmel | Retail & Consumer Goods | Active |
| Carsten Maschmeyer | Tech & Scalability | Active |
| Dagmar Wöhrl | Family Business & Social | Active |
| Judith Williams | Beauty & Marketing | Active |
| Nils Glagau | Health & Lifestyle | Active |
| Tillman Schulz | Food & Logistics | Active |
| Frank Thelen | Tech & Software | Former Member |
What Makes a “Lion” Deal?
The 2026 season has already seen a diverse range of pitches, from specialized gin formats to innovative construction tools. The jury’s decision-making process has become increasingly transparent, with investors like Ralf Dümmel and Carsten Maschmeyer often explaining the “due diligence” process that occurs after the cameras stop rolling. While many deals are celebrated on screen, the reality of the business world means that some startups eventually face insolvency, while others, like the top 10 most successful products, become permanent fixtures in German supermarkets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is the richest investor on Die Höhle der Löwen?
While exact net worths are private, Carsten Maschmeyer is widely cited as one of the wealthiest members of the jury, given his extensive history in the financial services and investment sectors.
Where can I watch the new episodes of DHDL?
The 19th season is currently airing on VOX. Episodes are also available for streaming on RTL+ shortly after the broadcast.
Why do some deals fail after the show?
A “deal” in the show is a letter of intent. Following the recording, investors conduct “due diligence” to verify the startup’s numbers and legal standing. If discrepancies are found or if the founders and investors cannot agree on the final contract details, the deal may fall through.
Is Frank Thelen returning to the jury?
As of March 2026, Frank Thelen remains focused on his own venture capital funds and his biography. While he has made guest appearances in the past, he is not a permanent member of the current season’s jury.