The Apprentice and the Product Life Cycle

A tired formula. A predictable mix of over-confident and under-skilled contestants. Tasks we’ve all seen before - many times. Doesn’t sound like a recipe for success. So does the latest series of The Apprentice on BBC1 suggest that this particular reality tv format is entering the decline stage of the product life cycle?

I suspect the answer is yes. Normally I’d be keen to make time to watch each episode alongside the kids. This time around? We’re not really bothered - and it seems we are not alone. This article in the Telegraph suggests that the opening show in the latest series was a viewing flop. It highlights some possible reasons - do you agree?

If The Apprentice format really is growing tired, are there any extension strategies that might rekindle viewer interest? How about asking each contestant to put their own money on the line - require them to put down a £10k deposit at the start, with the winner taking all along with a matching amount from Sugar? Following on from Junior Apprentice, could we have a Senior Citizens edition, or might that prove more Saga than Soap Opera?