The Apprentice contestant forced to leave show ahead of next episode due to health reasons

Virgin Radio

9 Feb 2023, 11:40

A candidate on The Apprentice 2023 has been forced to exit the show due to health issues. 

*Big spoilers ahead for tonight’s (Thursday 9th February) episode!*

Check out virginradio.co.uk's exclusive interview with Reece here!

While he was seen as part of the group heading to Dubai to curate a luxury corporate away day, Scottish candidate Reece Donnelly was unable to complete the task due to ill health, and so his time on the series was forced to come to an end. 

Speaking in a statement on his sudden departure, Reese said: “I could not continue in The Apprentice due to being unable to complete the task in Dubai for health reasons. 

“My goal of being on The Apprentice was to showcase that Scotland has amazing businesses and entrepreneurs. I really hope I’ve done that. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time on the show and I’m looking forward to watching my fellow candidates in the rest of the series. I’m so grateful for my time with Lord Sugar and the team."

Reece’s exit isn't the only shock departure this year, as Shannon Martin also left the process early, stating she didn’t think it was “the right environment” for her.

Deciding to leave after the task was completed, Shannon said: "I’ve already got a very successful business.

"I just felt that there were more deserving people there than me and it was not right for me to stay in the process."

Last week, it was technology recruiter Shazia Hussain who was fired after Lord Sugar said there were too many mistakes to overlook.

Speaking exclusively to virginradio.co.uk after her firing, Shazia said: It was my first time in the bottom three and I was surprised that I wasn’t given another opportunity, especially given the fact that I’d made some serious contributions in all of the tasks that I was involved in. 

“I was honest as well and took responsibility for mistakes and my teams. I think I demonstrated I’m honest, hardworking and have ideas that are memorable. I think that’s valuable and should count.”

Tonight, the remaining candidates will battle it out for Lord Sugar’s £250,000 investment by designing a corporate away day for two international clients based in Dubai, and are tasked with choosing activities, food and experiences, all while trying to make a profit. 

Check back in on virginradio.co.uk tonight to hear more from Reece - and to find out if anyone else will be packing their bags.

The Apprentice continues Thursday at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.