Behind the Scenes of The Apprentice
Ever imagined what life is like for contestants on BBC's The Apprentice? Keir Shave, who recently bid farewell to the competitive arena, has pulled back the curtain on some of the show's most talked-about aspects—the early wake-up calls.
For fans who've pondered the legitimacy of those 4am alarms, Shave cleared the air. According to him, these early morning alerts are indeed as brutal as they seem. Contestants are thrust from the embrace of sleep with a mere 20-30 minutes to prep for the day, a challenge for even the most morning-friendly folks. But here's the kicker: despite the apparent daylight seen in episodes, Shave revealed that these scenes often involve repeated filmings, sometimes up to 15 times. The reality of filming delays inevitably stretches the schedule.
The Contestant Experience
Despite the spotlight shining on Lord Alan Sugar, Shave mentioned that direct face time with the tycoon is reserved primarily for the boardroom clashes. Instead, it’s the aides, Karren Brady and Tim Campbell, who have more frequent interactions with the participants. Contrary to their on-screen gravitas, Shave found them to be less daunting in person, adding a comforting layer to the intense environment.
Shave's exit came amid a creative challenge revolving around a banking app and money box for children. His team initially took a risky step with a dog-themed money box marked with the 'SS' logo. Recognizing the unintentional controversy, they wisely opted for a redesign, substituting the symbols with the more apt pound sign (£). Yet, this decision didn't shield Shave and his fellow contestant Frederick Afrifa from an unexpected double firing. This move by Lord Sugar stirred debates among fans, who questioned the fairness of their ejection.
In reflecting on the process, Shave stressed that Lord Sugar's decisions aren't just about the minor slip-ups during tasks. Instead, they are rooted in the potential each candidate holds as a viable business partner. He shared insights into the relentless pace and pressure of the show, highlighting the unique challenges that come with such a high-stakes environment.
So, while the glitz and drama of The Apprentice play out on screen, contenders like Shave remind us of the sheer grit involved. Behind each episode is a whirlwind of early starts, multiple takes, and the ever-present demand for creativity under pressure. That's the real deal.
Apr, 4 2025