Alan Sugar, 77, sparks fiery BBC The Apprentice debate after signing deal to present shows into his EIGHTIES
Lord Alan Sugar has signed a new three-year deal with the BBC to continue hosting The Apprentice beyond the already contracted 20th series – sparking mixed reviews from fans.
The 77-year-old billionaire businessman revealed the agreement during a recent BBC interview with Amol Rajan and will see Sugar remain as the face of the popular business reality show well into his 80s.
Currently in its 19th series, The Apprentice has become one of the BBC’s flagship entertainment programmes since he took on the role in the mid-2000s.
Speaking to Rajan, Sugar expressed pride in the programme’s legacy and said: “Listen, when I took the job of The Apprentice, I was already a multi-millionaire. I didn’t do it for the money.”
The format sees Sugar invest £250,000 in the winner’s business in exchange for half of their company.
Sugar remains unfazed by criticism of the show, saying it falls “like water off a duck’s back” these days.
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The BBC official X account posted the news, and penned: “You’re hired: Lord Sugar signs up to stay on The Apprentice into his 80s.”
However, fans were less than impressed with the news as one commented: “At this rate, the final challenge will be candidates competing to see who can wheel Lord Sugar into the boardroom the fastest.”
Another quipped: “Aye, because who wouldn’t want a grumpy grandad throwing shade at the youngsters for another decade? Sign me up for the popcorn!”
Someone else said: “But the show is now so tired & formulaic. Time to end it imo,” before a fourth added: “Such a tired and boring format now.
“And the last few seasons they seem to have gone out of their way to find people with the business acumen of a goldfish.
“It doesn’t make good viewing watching a bunch of idiots having no clue what they’re doing every week. Needs a refresh.”
A fifth annoyed fan said: “I think he should be made to go up against other people to prove his suitability for the role.” (sic)
Sugar also believes some contestants now apply for The Apprentice primarily seeking social media fame rather than genuine business opportunities.
“I spot them straight away, so that’s why they never become the winners. So they’re out, but they’re part and parcel of the entertainment package of the programme,” he said.
Despite this trend, Lord Sugar remains committed to finding genuine business talent through the show.
His experience across “every single facet of business” allows him to properly interrogate contestants.
“I have sat on the production line, I’ve made stuff, I’ve packed boxes, I’ve loaded lorries, I’ve delivered, I’ve collected money,” he added.