Amazon is strengthening its ties with President Trump.
On Monday, Amazon Prime Video announced that several seasons of “The Apprentice,” the reality show from the 2000s that played a significant role in elevating Mr. Trump’s public image, will soon be accessible on the streaming platform.
The inaugural season, which debuted in 2004, is now available on Prime Video as of Monday. Amazon also revealed that a new season of “The Apprentice” will be added weekly, leading up to the release of the seventh season on the streaming service in late April.
Mr. Trump conveyed his enthusiastic approval through a statement shared by Amazon.
“I can’t wait to watch this show again — such wonderful memories, so much enjoyment, and most importantly, it was a meaningful experience for all of us!” he stated.
This marks Amazon’s second significant collaboration with the Trump family this year. In January, Amazon announced plans to produce a “behind the scenes” documentary about Melania Trump, with the first lady serving as an executive producer. Amazon expressed excitement about sharing this truly unique narrative.
Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, indicated late last year that he was “very optimistic” regarding the incoming Trump administration. Like many other tech firms, Amazon contributed $1 million to Mr. Trump’s inaugural fund.
In addition, Mr. Bezos owns The Washington Post, which has experienced considerable upheaval, particularly following his decision not to have the paper endorse a candidate for the 2024 presidential election. He is currently revamping the opinion section of the paper to focus on “personal liberties and free markets.”
When “The Apprentice” premiered on NBC in 2004, it was a significant success, though its ratings gradually declined over the years.
Mr. Trump was an executive producer of the series, so he is likely to receive payment from this new agreement with Amazon. A company spokesperson declined to comment on the financial details.
In a statement, Mark Burnett, the mogul behind reality television who served as an executive producer for “The Apprentice,” shared his enthusiasm regarding this new streaming arrangement.
“‘The Apprentice’ is one of the finest shows I’ve ever produced,” Mr. Burnett remarked in a statement provided by Amazon.
