What Post-Verdict Polls Show, and How "Apprentice" Made Trump a Megastar, with Hogan Gidley, David Pakman, and Ramin Setoodeh | Ep. 812
Jun 6, 2024
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Hogan Gidley, former White House Deputy Press Secretary, and David Pakman, progressive political commentator, delve into the political landscape, touching on immigration issues under both Trump and Biden, and the implications of inflation in the 2024 elections. They analyze post-verdict polls concerning Trump and discuss voter apathy. Ramin Setoodeh, co-editor of Variety, shares insights from his book on 'The Apprentice,' revealing how the show transformed Trump into a cultural icon and political figure, highlighting memorable moments and the show's impact on his presidency.
Trump's appearance on 'The Apprentice' defined his public image and was a stepping stone to his political career.
The Apprentice faced programming challenges but ultimately became a blockbuster show, elevating Trump's fame.
Trump's decision to join 'The Apprentice' despite initial hesitation paved the way for his national hero status.
The show not only made Trump a household name but also significantly enriched him monetarily.
Deep dives
The Inception and Success of The Apprentice
The idea for The Apprentice was born when Mark Burnett, seeking a city-set reality show post-Survivor, met Donald Trump at Trump-owned Wollman Rink. Initially intended for one season, Trump was paid $25,000 per episode. The show debuted in 2004 and quickly gained popularity despite early struggles with programming schedules.
Trump's Transformation into a National Icon through The Apprentice
The Apprentice showcased Trump as a tough, smart, and powerful boss, resonating with viewers who admired his boardroom demeanor. The show not only made him a household name but also significantly enriched him, with earnings of $213 million over 14 seasons. Trump's portrayal on the show laid the foundation for his successful presidential campaign.
Trump's Fondness and Continuing Relevance of The Apprentice
Despite the passage of time, Trump holds The Apprentice in high regard, reminiscing about his time on the show with joy. The program still holds a special place in his heart, and he attributes much of his national hero status to his character portrayal on the show. Trump's involvement in discussing the significance of The Apprentice underscores the lasting impact the show had on his public image.
The Impact of Programming Choices on The Apprentice's Trajectory
The Apprentice faced early challenges due to programming decisions, like being scheduled against American Idol. However, after adjustments to its airing time and slotting it back on Thursday nights, its popularity soared. The show's initial struggles were overcome, solidifying its place as a blockbuster program that resonated with viewers and contributed significantly to Trump's fame.
Trump's Decision to Join The Apprentice
Donald Trump's decision to join The Apprentice despite warnings from his agent showcases his initial hesitation, which was overcome by his desire to move forward with the show based on a handshake agreement with producer Mark Burnett. The show's format and success, highlighted by the iconic catchphrase 'You're fired,' contributed significantly to Trump's public image and ultimately paved the way for his political ambitions.
Evolution of Trump's Persona on The Apprentice
Trump's role on The Apprentice revealed a different side to his persona, showcasing charm, charisma, and a sense of humor that resonated with the contestants and viewers. His involvement in mentoring contestants off-camera and the dynamics within the production team portrayed a more approachable and engaging side of Trump. The show's format allowed Trump to display his decisive nature, setting the stage for his future endeavors as a public figure.
Impact of The Apprentice on Trump's Political Path
The Apprentice played a pivotal role in shaping Trump's trajectory towards politics, with the show serving as a platform that propelled him into the national spotlight. The connections between his television persona and political strategies became evident, illustrating how his experiences on The Apprentice influenced his approach to leadership and decision-making. The show's success not only boosted Trump's public profile but also laid the groundwork for his eventual transition into a political figure, highlighting the interconnectedness of entertainment and politics in his career.
Megyn Kelly is joined by political commentators Hogan Gidley and David Pakman to discuss the 80th anniversary of D-Day, teenagers who put their lives on the line for our country, how wars brought America together in the past, the change in the definition of "bravery," illegal immigration under Trump and Biden, the political implications of immigration in 2024, inflation as a campaign issue, whether the Trump guilty verdict will help or hurt him, what the polls are showing so far, details of the Hunter Biden laptop scandal, what issues are going to bring people to the ballot box, and more. Then Ramin Setoodeh, author of "Apprentice in Wonderland," joins to discuss the impact NBC's hit show “The Apprentice" had on Trump’s career and cultural relevance, how his notable catch phrase "You're Fired" came to be, behind-the-scenes details of the show, how the program helped lead him to become president, the real reason Trump decided to bring Omarosa to the White House, how Trump thrives on chaos, Trump's legacy in media, entertainment, and politics, and more. And Megyn concludes the show by paying tribute to those in uniform who served on D-Day, the emotional moment from one service member, how Hillary Clinton had to go political on the occasion, and more.
