Trump weighs in on “The Apprentice” reboot rumors, teases son Donald Jr. as possible host
President Donald Trump acknowledged talk of an Amazon Prime Video reboot of The Apprentice and praised his son Donald Trump Jr.’s “charisma,” calling him “a good guy,” while stopping short of confirming any formal agreement or production plans.
- Trump acknowledged industry buzz but did not confirm negotiations or a deal.
- Amazon Prime Video is a logical candidate after Amazon’s MGM acquisition, though nothing is finalized.
- Donald Trump Jr. has name recognition but no prior reality-hosting resume; reactions split along political lines.
- Local impacts (e.g., Fresno) could include jobs, small-business boosts and heightened political attention if production occurs.
Trump’s Oval Office remarks
When asked in the Oval Office on Thursday, April 30, 2026, President Trump said: “Well, I’ve been hearing it… Look, we had a great success. Fourteen seasons, and The Apprentice was a tremendous success. So, I’ve been hearing that a little bit. So, we’ll see what happens. He’s a good guy. He’d be probably good. He’s got a little charisma going. You need a little charisma for that sucker.”
Video of the exchange circulated online; see the Fox News report and video and multiple Oval Office clips on YouTube and related excerpts.
Show history and why a reboot draws attention
The Apprentice first aired in 2004 and became a cultural touchstone for its business-based tasks and dramatic boardroom moments. The original run continued through multiple seasons and celebrity editions; the last episodes aired in 2017. Arnold Schwarzenegger briefly hosted a 2017 celebrity season that was canceled after one run.
The format’s brand recognition — and the show’s past 14-season success — keeps fueling revival conversations in industry circles.
Why Amazon Prime comes up
Industry chatter ties a potential reboot to Amazon Prime Video because Amazon acquired MGM, which holds rights to the original catalogue. That acquisition makes Amazon a logical landing spot for revivals of established TV brands; reporting on the topic has highlighted that this remains early-stage speculation rather than a confirmed production plan (see background reporting on The Daily Beast and video excerpts on YouTube).
Donald Trump Jr.: resume and what he would bring
Donald Trump Jr., 48, lacks traditional reality-host experience. His public profile stems from roles as an executive vice president at the Trump Organization, campaign surrogate work, authorship and frequent media appearances. Supporters cite name recognition and media savvy; critics point to his lack of hosting background and potential political controversy.
Past reporting notes the family was discussed as potential successors in earlier years; producers ultimately selected Schwarzenegger for the 2017 season, with family members only slated as advisers in that scenario (see reporting on succession plans).
Implications for Fresno, California
Economic impact
- Production and jobs: A reboot filmed in California could create short-term jobs for local crews, caterers, set builders and vendors, plus hotel and restaurant demand.
- Small-business boost: Casting calls, auditions and promotional events could benefit event planners, talent agencies and local venues.
Political consequences
- Local engagement: A nationally prominent host could draw campaign-style gatherings or protests, involving law enforcement and shaping local political discourse.
- Media attention: Coverage of production or appearances could intensify polarization in local reporting and community conversation.
Social effects
- Community conversation: A politically active host may prompt debates about the mixing of entertainment and politics across Fresno’s diverse communities.
- Opportunities for locals: Entrepreneurs and business students might see casting notices as visibility opportunities; local colleges could host related events.
Cultural relevance
A high-profile reboot on a major streaming platform underscores how streaming services mine legacy brands. Local arts and film groups could leverage renewed interest for panels, screenings and workforce programming.
Practical applications for residents
- Watch parties & local programming: Bars and community centers could host events if episodes stream on Amazon Prime.
- Jobs and training: Film schools and workforce programs might partner with production crews for training and hiring pathways.
- Civic planning: City officials should be prepared for permit requests, street closures and public-safety coordination if large-scale filming is proposed.
Sources and further reading
Reporting and video excerpts cited throughout this article include the Fox News report and video, multiple Oval Office clips on YouTube (additional clips: YouTube; YouTube short; and Fox News video excerpt), and industry coverage on The Daily Beast.
What’s confirmed — and what’s not: President Trump’s comments reflect acknowledgment of industry buzz, not a formal announcement. No producers, Amazon/MGM representatives or Donald Trump Jr. spokespeople have confirmed a deal.
Contact: Times Media Service — Seattle, Washington. For full video context and original reporting, see the links above.
