Popular television presenter Angela Scanlon has been confirmed as the new host of The Apprentice: Unfinished Business, stepping into the role following Tom Allen's departure after six years.
A New Host for the Boardroom Aftermath
The move was announced on the official The Apprentice Instagram page on Friday 16 January 2026. Scanlon, a fan favourite from the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing, will front the weekly spin-off that airs directly after the main show on BBC Two.
The programme, which has run for the past six years, features the first interviews with the week's fired candidates, alongside a panel of industry experts and celebrity fans dissecting the drama and behind-the-scenes details.
Scanlon's Excitement and Allen's Farewell
In a statement to the BBC, Angela Scanlon expressed her delight at joining the iconic show as it heads into its 20th year. "Having recently gone toe-to-toe with Lord Sugar in the boardroom, I have never understood or loved this iconic show more!" she said. "I can't wait to get suited and booted and sit down with candidates and celeb fans each week to unpack the drama and make sense of the madness."
She confirmed to a fan on social media that the show will air on BBC Two straight after the main episode.
Her predecessor, Tom Allen, announced his exit with an emotional statement, thanking Lord Sugar, Karren Brady, Tim Campbell, and all the candidates and guest panellists. "I have had so much fun working with the most incredible creative people to make it all happen," he said, joking: "I was also getting concerned Lord Sugar might realise I know nothing about business."
What to Expect from the New Series
The first episode of The Apprentice: Unfinished Business with its new host will broadcast at 10.05pm on Thursday 29 January on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from fans, with one welcoming Scanlon by riffing on Lord Sugar's famous phrase: "You're hired! Welcome onboard."
Scanlon's appointment has also fuelled speculation about her future with the BBC, as she has been rumoured as a potential successor to Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly on Strictly Come Dancing following their departure last year.
