Tom Allen has announced he is leaving The Apprentice spin-off show after six years as host, with fans left devastated by the news
Monde Mwitumwa
23:14, 14 Jan 2026
Tom Allen has confirmed he is stepping down from The Apprentice: You're Fired, bringing his six-year tenure as host to a close.
The 42 year old comic and broadcaster shared the announcement via Instagram in a video message, explaining that the timing felt appropriate to pursue new opportunities.
"After six years, I've decided to say goodbye to The Apprentice: You're Fired," he wrote. "I've had so much fun working with the most incredible creative people to make it all happen." He joked that he was becoming increasingly concerned that Lord Sugar might eventually "realise I know nothing about business."
Allen has fronted the BBC companion programme since 2019, establishing himself as a key figure in the format where eliminated contestants are subjected to challenging interrogation, sharp humour, and a studio audience.
His decision represents a significant shift for the companion show, with supporters voicing their sadness about his exit through numerous responses. One viewer wrote: "Oh no Tom! I do hope you're not going to disappear from our screens completely!", reports the Express.
Someone else commented: "So sad. It certainly won't be the same without you. Good luck with whatever you decide to do next."
A third agreed, writing: "To whoever the next host of You're Fired is, they will be no match to you. You're the only one who could master it!"
In his farewell statement, Allen conveyed his appreciation to the programme's leading personalities, expressing thanks to Lord Sugar, Karren Brady and Tim Campbell for their guidance. He also acknowledged the many contestants and visiting panellists who appeared alongside him throughout the years.
Co-stars were swift to offer heartfelt tributes. Lord Sugar characterised collaborating with Allen as "a pleasure", confessing that he 'didn't realise how funny' he was at first.
Tim Campbell praised the host for introducing 'warmth, wit and wicked whistles' to the show, whilst Karren Brady noted the production team was 'incredibly grateful' for his five-series tenure.
The official social media presence for The Apprentice: You're Fired reinforced these feelings, calling Allen 'the most wonderful host' and extending best wishes for his upcoming projects.
Viewers have been rapidly theorising about his subsequent career move, with some proposing he might be considered for a prominent hosting position on another BBC programme, including Strictly Come Dancing.
Numerous supporters responded to his announcement voicing their desire to see him front the ballroom competition, with one enthusiast writing: "Oh I do hope you are going to present Strictly! The show needs you!".
Originally from Bromley, Kent, Allen initially rose to prominence after securing the So You Think You're Funny? award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2005. Subsequently, he's built a varied professional portfolio spanning stand-up performance, theatrical work, authorship and musical performance, alongside frequent television commitments.
While Allen alluded to 'new voyages' in his future, the BBC has yet to announce who will succeed him on You're Fired.
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