Trump Says Don Jr. Could Host The Apprentice Reboot; Leaves Door Open as Amazon Talks Surface
During an April 30, 2026 Oval Office exchange, President Donald Trump said he’s heard speculation that Donald Trump Jr. could host a reboot of The Apprentice — praising Don Jr.’s “charisma” and leaving the possibility open.
Key takeaways
- President Trump acknowledged rumors that Donald Trump Jr. might host a revived The Apprentice and complimented his son’s “charisma.”
- Industry reporting ties early interest in a reboot to Amazon Prime Video discussions after its MGM acquisition.
- There are no formal confirmations from Amazon or the Trump Organization; current accounts rely on early talks and the president’s remarks.
Trump’s Oval Office comments and immediate coverage
During the April 30 exchange in the Oval Office, reporters asked President Trump about reports that his son might host a revived version of The Apprentice. Trump responded that he had “been hearing it” and referenced the show’s prior success: “Fourteen seasons, and The Apprentice was a tremendous success.”
“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. So, we’ll see what happens.”
Video of the brief exchange was posted by multiple outlets, including Forbes YouTube, an additional clip from Forbes, coverage from Fox News, and a short posted on Fox YouTube short.
Background on The Apprentice and past host changes
The Apprentice debuted in 2004 with Donald Trump as host, running 14 seasons in its original format and later featuring celebrity editions; the final Apprentice-branded episode aired in 2017. Producers explored alternative hosts after Trump left to pursue politics, including a 2017 season hosted by Arnold Schwarzenegger that failed to restore earlier ratings and led to cancellation.
Retrospective reporting examined other host choices and attempts to continue the franchise; see coverage in The Daily Beast.
Why Don Jr. is being discussed as a possible host
Donald Trump Jr. has appeared on past seasons in advisory boardroom roles alongside family members such as Ivanka and Eric Trump. Though he lacks a long history as a reality-TV host, his profile as an executive vice president of the Trump Organization, campaign surrogate, author and podcaster gives him name recognition that producers may view as an asset.
President Trump’s praise of Don Jr.’s “charisma” at the April 30 exchange added momentum to speculation, but the president’s remarks did not confirm any negotiations, casting terms, or production details.
The Apprentice reboot and Amazon: what’s known
Industry reporting has connected renewed interest in the franchise to Amazon Prime Video following Amazon’s 2025 acquisition of MGM. The Wall Street Journal reported that Amazon held early discussions about a possible reboot; those talks were described as preliminary and no formal deal or announcement has been issued by Amazon or the Trump Organization.
Media coverage has picked up on the WSJ reporting and the president’s Oval Office comments, but as of now the story remains in the rumor stage without a formal green light.
Implications for Paso Robles, California
Economic effects
- Local business and tourism could see short-term boosts if production films in or near the region, benefitting hotels, catering and local vendors.
- Casting calls or crew hires could create temporary jobs for local talent and service providers.
Political consequences
- National media attention could be a boon for local promotion but might also create partisan debate and pressure on local officials.
- High-profile involvement by Trump-family members can heighten polarization and raise the prospect of demonstrations or political events tied to production.
Social and cultural effects
- Filming could increase exposure for Paso Robles’ wine country, affecting tourism perceptions and long-term interest.
- The presence of national media and political figures could shift local conversations about community values and civic priorities.
Practical takeaways for residents:
- Potential for local hiring and contracting opportunities.
- Marketing opportunities for businesses if filming or press coverage occurs.
- Local authorities should prepare for permitting, traffic and security planning if production interests emerge.
What to watch for next
- Official announcements: Formal statements from Amazon Prime Video or the Trump Organization would confirm a deal, host choice or production timeline.
- Comments from Don Jr.: A direct statement from Donald Trump Jr. would move the story beyond speculation.
- Local outreach: Notices from film commissions or Paso Robles officials and permit filings would signal concrete production plans.
Sources and reporting notes
This account is based on President Trump’s public comments during a White House press exchange and reporting from major outlets. Video coverage of the April 30 exchange is available from Forbes YouTube and an additional Forbes clip, with coverage in Fox News and a Fox YouTube short. Background on past host choices and franchise history is available from The Daily Beast. Reporting has also noted The Wall Street Journal’s account that Amazon held early discussions about a reboot after its MGM acquisition.
