The Apprentice has officially returned for its 19th series, bringing along 18 new candidates ready to showcase their business acumen and compete for the coveted £250,000 investment from business tycoon Sir Alan Sugar. This season has generated substantial excitement among fans who are eager to see what this year’s batch of entrepreneurs has to offer.
The season kicked off on January 30, 2025, at 9 PM on BBC One and iPlayer. Viewers can expect the usual array of tasks, presentations, and boardroom confrontations, but with some twists, as the candidates will face challenges across different landscapes, including the picturesque surroundings of Austria.
Among the contestants spanning various industries are Amber-Rose Badrudin, Anisa Khan, and Dr. Jana Denzel, each bringing unique experiences and innovative business ideas to the competition. Badrudin, who runs the successful convenience store Oree Mart, has received positive responses to her bubble tea shop, Oree Tea, and is aiming for expansion. Khan, on the other hand, owns Anisa's Indian-Italian restaurant and plans to deploy dark kitchens to capitalize on increasing demand.
Dr. Jana Denzel, renowned for his Harley Street cosmetic dentistry practice, plans to expand his client base nationally and has even ventured to create his own healthcare product line to appeal to discerning clients. His impressive list of clientele includes Hollywood stars and Grammy winners, which adds glamour to his pitch for Lord Sugar's backing.
Other candidates such as Aoibheann Walsh, who runs her own salon business, have also caught the attention of viewers with their defined pitches. Walsh has distinguished herself with her patented utility belt for makeup artists and hairstylists, aiming to streamline their work processes. Each candidate reveals ambitious plans addressing market gaps and presenting creative solutions.
Each candidate's story sheds light on their background and motivations—whether it's Keir Shave from Leeds, who built his telemarketing company from the ground up after his employer went bust, or Frederick Afrifa, who helps aspiring public speakers overcome their fears. Afrifa, who is also known for his sports background, is determined to expand his influence and client list.
Notably, the show retains its familiar format, with Lord Sugar alongside his trusted advisors—Baroness Karren Brady and Tim Campbell MBE—who provide feedback and insights during the boardroom sessions. Brady, who has been with Sugar since 2010, offers her sharp business insights, whereas Campbell, the first winner of The Apprentice, brings his experience and perspective to the table.
Throughout the competition, viewers will get to witness the ups and downs each contestant faces, with their fates resting on their ability to impress Sugar, who has seen many entrepreneurs come and go over the years. Contestants not only seek financial backing but also the mentorship necessary to thrive beyond the show.
The candidates have been preparing for weeks, living together in the luxurious Huxley House located on Bishop’s Avenue, famously known as Billionaires’ Row. The mansion itself features numerous amenities including eight bedrooms, pools, and cinema rooms, providing both comfort and distraction from their relentless business pursuits.
Filming for The Apprentice takes place not only in the mansion, but also within various custom-built settings at Black Island Studios, where the iconic boardroom scenes are shot. Tasks are often filmed at unique locations to keep both contestants and viewers engaged, with one interesting task this season focusing on the creation of virtual products.
Potential scenarios this season could test their marketing skills and adaptability as they tackle challenges derived from actual business concepts, potentially culminating with their own business pitches before Sugar himself.
The dynamic nature of the candidates’ personalities promises to deliver plenty of unforeseen interactions along the way, whether through collaboration or competition—growing tensions are to be expected as each contestant jostles to secure their vision. Fans are likely familiar with the inevitable moments of conflict and strategy as ideas clash and alliances are formed.
Overall, The Apprentice continues to be one of the UK’s most anticipated TV events, offering glimpses of the entrepreneurial spirit and the reality of launching and growing businesses, as contestants vie for Sugar’s approval and investment.
Mark the date: tune in every Thursday at 9 PM for new episodes to watch these aspiring entrepreneurs take their first steps toward building their business empires, proving to Sir Alan Sugar—and to viewers at home—that they have what it takes to succeed on this competitive stage.