A Northern ITV star is reportedly switching channels after signing up for the return of Celebrity Apprentice on BBC.
Blackburn-born presenter AJ Odudu, best known for hosting ITV’s Big Brother revival and its upcoming celebrity spin-off, is said to be one of the big names set to impress Lord Sugar in his famous boardroom.
A source told The Sun: “AJ is one of TV’s most in-demand stars, so bosses are thrilled to have her onboard. She jumped at the chance to do it and is always up for new challenges. Plus, she’s a big fan of the show. She also has a strong competitive side—viewers saw how well she did on Strictly—so expect her to go far in the series.”
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AJ is no stranger to the BBC, having reached the final of Strictly Come Dancing in 2021.
Although the official lineup hasn’t been confirmed, it’s understood she’ll be joining JLS star JB Gill, EastEnders actor Jake Wood, presenters Robert Rinder and Angela Scanlon, and Paralympian Kadeena Cox.
Despite lacking business experience, JB is reportedly keen to take on the challenge as part of The Apprentice’s 20th anniversary celebrations. A TV insider said: “JB isn’t afraid of a challenge—he relishes them. That was clear from his Strictly performances. But while he had a background in dance, business is a different ballgame. That only makes for more entertaining viewing, which is the whole point of the show.”
This marks the first Celebrity Apprentice series in 16 years, and producers are aiming to secure big names, including Cheryl Tweedy and Piers Morgan. A source said: “Execs want A-list stars, and signing up Piers would be TV gold given his long-running stand-off with Lord Sugar.”
The celebrity edition is expected to air in late 2025, ahead of The Apprentice’s milestone 20th series.
