Apprentice in Wonderland: How Donald Trump and Mark Burnett Took America Through the Looking Glass by Ramin Setoodeh

Ramin Setoodeh's "Who Punch" delves into the untold story of Donald Trump's tenure as the star of "The Apprentice," a role that significantly influenced his political trajectory. Trump himself credits the reality TV series for boosting his visibility and eventual path to the White House. Setoodeh, known for his revealing insights into television culture as seen in his previous work "Ladies Who Punch," uncovers the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shaped Trump's image as New York's tough corporate boss.

The book exposes the orchestrated environment created by reality TV producer Mark Burnett and NBC executive Jeff Zucker, portraying Trump's role in the boardroom as a carefully crafted persona. Setoodeh draws from extensive interviews with Trump, along with key figures such as boardroom advisers George Ross and Carolyn Kepcher, Trump's son Eric Trump, and memorable contestants from the show.

Setoodeh's narrative is characterized by its vivid portrayal of the cultural impact of "The Apprentice," which not only propelled Trump to celebrity status but also contributed to the transformation of his public persona. The book examines how the show's format and Trump's portrayal shaped perceptions of his leadership and business acumen, factors that resonated with voters during his presidential campaign.

Through meticulous research and authoritative storytelling, Setoodeh reveals the untold anecdotes and pivotal moments that defined "The Apprentice," illustrating its lasting influence on American pop culture and its role in shaping Trump's political narrative. "Who Punch" offers a comprehensive exploration of Trump's reality TV years, shedding light on a critical chapter in his journey from entertainment figure to commander-in-chief. ❤️📚❤️