The Apprentice - Ben backs the wrong horse!

Now that we have reached week nine of twelve on The Apprentice I think I can say with confidence that I am not addicted to it. Last night I found the episode a little dull to be honest and if it hadn’t been for blog duties I may have watched eek! the Nine O’Clock News.

I think there are two reasons for this.

Firstly the contestants – they have seen it all before and are a little too self-aware for my liking. They all seem to slot into a type, the sexy blonde one (Kate), the funny nice guy (James) or the unpleasant pushy one (Deborah). In past seasons unpredictable and memorable characters (often for all the wrong reasons) popped up like Raef, Tre Azam, the Badger. I am even nostalgic for Katie Hopkins for goodness sake.

The second reason the series seems a little flat is the tasks. Let’s face it last night’s was just plain boring - no-one had to dress in a silly costume, make anything or even manage a budget. There was only scope for the teams to make one mistake and that was in product selection. I seem to remember past contestants running theme nights in pubs, trying to sell bargain cheese to French people and looking for a kosher chicken in a souk.

There also seems to be less air time given to the tasks so we are not getting a true impression of the contestants’ abilities (or lack of them).

Last night it was obvious that Ben or Deborah had to go although I felt the selection of the rocking horse was more her decision than his. Although unpleasant throughout the run, Ben redeemed himself on ‘You’re Fired’ as is often the case. Clearly embarrassed at his arrogance throughout the series and his constant boasting about his Sandhurst scholarship, he said at 22 he was inexperienced and decided to compensate for this by just going for it. A lesson learned there I think.

James continues to be my favourite to win, his description of childbirth using the pool to a pregnant punter was nothing short of hilarious telling her that once the lid is open the baby practically jumps out. Ah not really James! Clearly not a fan of Deb’s he said to Sralan ‘if I could have brought Deborah in twice I would have’. Despite that she lives to fight another day.

Next week it’s the QVC shopping channel week which should present James with ample opportunity to test his comic timing. Let’s hope it’s a little more interesting than flogging safety helmets to babies who won’t wear them.

Bree Treacy