Jack Dee relinquishes The Apprentice: You’re Fired presenting role

Jack Dee is stepping down as host of BBC Two’s The Apprentice: You’re Fired.

The comedian, who assumed the helm of The Apprentice companion show last year, is said to be withdrawing due to work commitments.

“It’s been a tough decision to leave You’re Fired. I’d like to thank The Apprentice team, BBC Two, the candidates and the ‘Big Man’ Lord Sugar himself for making me feel so welcome but now, in keeping with The Apprentice tradition, I am firing myself. Good luck with the next series.” – Jack Dee

Dee’s current undertakings include filming series two of the BBC Three sitcom Josh which is back later this year, continuing as host of BBC Radio 4’s I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue throughout 2016 and work on further specials of his BBC Two series, Jack Dee’s Helpdesk.

The Apprentice: You’re Fired sees a panel of business experts and celebrities appear each week to give the latest departee from the parent series a grilling. Dee succeeded Dara Ó Briain as host who had earlier replaced original presenter Adrian Chiles in 2009 upon his ill-fated move to ITV. Dee was previously a contestant on 2009’s Comic Relief Does The Apprentice, making it into the final boardroom only to be beaten by Michelle Mone of the women’s team.

“Jack is one of the most talented comedians in the UK and he very quickly made You’re Fired his own. We are really sorry to see him go but we are also delighted to be working with him on a number of other projects.” – Alan Tyler, Acting Controller, BBC Entertainment Commissioning

The beeb will announce a new host for You’re Fired in due course.