The Apprentice marked the start of its huge 20th series with a shock double firing. Lord Alan Sugar had plenty of tricks up his sleeves to start the big anniversary run.
First premiering all the way back in February 2005, the show has become a firm fixture in the TV calendar ever since. The BBC show has returned once again - with more candidates than ever.
The twenty hopefuls were sent to Hong Kong for a classic Apprentice challenge. Sent to find a series of items across the former British territory - it resulted in a shock double firing.
The Apprentice is set to continue tonight (February 5) at 9pm on BBC One. This week, the remaining candidates will have to make a children’s story and audiobook - what could possibly go wrong?
Remind yourself what businesses the hopefuls are dreaming of securing investment in. The winner will get a cash injection of £250,000 from Lord Alan Sugar.
But who has left the process already and which of the candidates are still in? Here’s all you need to know:
17. Rothna Akhtar
She explained: "My business plan is to expand my part-time business, Rothna’s Bakery, into a threefold physical space. It combines bespoke occasion cakes, interactive baking workshops and a personalised cake bar station. Whether you’re after a cake for a special occasion, want to replace pottery painting with bento decorating, or simply want to craft your own cake flavours, my business is where it’s at. Need a self-care day? This is your new favourite escape." | BBC Photo: BBC
18. Roxanne Hamedi
She explained: "Browtasia is a beauty brand I founded, building on my expertise as a pharmacist and aesthetics practitioner after experiencing my own struggles with brow loss and thinning hair. Blending scientific expertise with natural, results- driven formulations, the brand delivers clean beauty solutions that restore confidence from the root. My hero product, the nourishing brow palette features a unique blend of vegan pomade and powder infused with argan oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, and vitamin E. Made in a UK- based lab and complete with its own applicator brush, it aims to fill sparse gaps while nourishing the brow root." | BBC Photo: BBC
19. Tanmay Hingorani
He explained: "My business plan is for an AI-powered digital loyalty and marketing platform revolutionising how food and drink businesses connect with customers. It combines a customer app and business portal to deliver personalised rewards, offers, and real-time insights. The platform strengthens loyalty through data-led, social and interactive experiences that make every visit more personal. I’ve developed and deployed an early version to gather real feedback and refine the product. With Lord Sugar’s investment, I plan to scale its reach, enhance its AI capabilities, and establish it as the leading engagement platform in the hospitality sector." | BBC Photo: BBC
20. Vanessa Tetteh-Squire
She explained: "My business, AYORKOH is a swimwear and resort wear brand, aimed at women with fuller busts - this is my passion. I’m driven to create everyday styles that not only support but also look incredible. My designs will defy gravity, blending style and function in ways that empower, give confidence and bring comfort. I’m committed to pushing boundaries, using innovative methods to ensure every piece is as supportive as it is chic." | BBC Photo: BBC