Apprentice in Wonderland; How Donald Trump and Mark Burnett Took America Through the Looking Glass

Apprentice in Chief is the definitive behind-the-scenes account of Donald Trump’s rise as a reality TV star—and how The Apprentice helped propel him to the presidency.

From Ramin Setoodeh, editor-in-chief of Variety and bestselling author of Ladies Who Punch, this gripping exposé uncovers the untold story of Trump’s years in the boardroom, revealing how The Apprentice—crafted by Survivor producer Mark Burnett and NBC executive Jeff Zucker—transformed Trump’s image and reshaped his public persona.

With exclusive interviews, including extensive conversations with Trump himself, as well as insights from boardroom advisers, contestants, and insiders, Setoodeh pulls back the curtain on the show’s most memorable moments, its backstage drama, and its lasting impact on American politics. Blending investigative depth with sharp storytelling, Apprentice in Chief captures the reality TV spectacle that altered pop culture and played a pivotal role in shaping the Trump era.