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Celebrity Apprentice Returns: BBC Mimics Traitors Success
26 Jan
Summary
- BBC revived Celebrity Apprentice inspired by The Traitors' success.
- Celebrity Apprentice will feature a six-episode series in 2026.
- The new celebrity format will allow winners to donate prize money to charity.
Lord Sugar has disclosed that the BBC's decision to revive Celebrity Apprentice stems from the broadcaster observing the success of other celebrity spin-off formats, specifically mentioning The Traitors. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the proven appeal of celebrity versions of popular shows.
The upcoming full-length Celebrity Apprentice series is slated for a 2026 release. This follows a recent one-off Christmas special, confirming the format's return after its last full series in 2019. The new six-episode run marks a significant expansion for the celebrity edition.
A key change for the 2026 series is that the winning celebrity will receive prize money to donate to a charity. This contrasts with earlier celebrity specials which were solely for charitable causes, with celebrities donating their time.
The BBC's Head of Entertainment, Kalpna Patel-Knight, expressed excitement for the celebrity candidates to "rise to the challenge" when the series launches later in 2026. The show's return is seen as a significant part of the BBC's entertainment offerings.
