DeepSummary
The episode features an interview with Bill Pruitt, a former producer for the first two seasons of the reality show The Apprentice starring Donald Trump. Pruitt discusses his experience working on the show and reveals details about Trump's behavior behind the scenes, including instances of misogyny and racism. He describes how the producers had to manipulate footage to make Trump appear more articulate and knowledgeable.
Pruitt recounts a meeting where Trump questioned whether America would accept a Black winner, using a racial slur. He also talks about how Trump would make inappropriate comments about female crew members' appearances. Pruitt expresses regret for his role in shaping Trump's image as a successful businessman and leader, which he believes contributed to Trump's ability to run for and win the presidency.
Although Pruitt's non-disclosure agreement expired after 20 years, he notes that other former producers are still reluctant to speak out, fearing retaliation from Trump. He acknowledges the ethical issues surrounding the way the show portrayed Trump and suggests that there may be more damaging recordings that have not been released.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Former Apprentice producer Bill Pruitt reveals details about Donald Trump's problematic behind-the-scenes behavior, including instances of misogyny and racism.
- The producers had to manipulate footage and audio to make Trump appear more articulate, knowledgeable, and omniscient than he actually was.
- Pruitt expresses regret for his role in shaping Trump's image as a successful businessman and leader, which he believes contributed to Trump's ability to run for and win the presidency.
- Despite the expiration of non-disclosure agreements, other former Apprentice producers are reluctant to speak out due to fears of retaliation from Trump.
- Pruitt suggests that there may be more damaging recordings of Trump's behavior that have not been released.
- The episode raises ethical questions about the portrayal of reality TV personalities and the potential influence of such portrayals on public perception and political outcomes.
- Pruitt's account challenges the carefully crafted image of Trump as a savvy and competent leader, offering a behind-the-scenes look at his true behavior and character.
- The episode highlights the power of media and entertainment in shaping public opinion and the importance of ethical practices in these industries.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “And Trump's job was mainly to say, here's what I'm looking for. Heres what I want you to do, and heres why I want you to go out and do this this way. And he just couldnt do it. And so thats one thing. We had to go in and basically do some rejiggering in post production audio to make him sound more concise, more eloquent, more articulate than he actually is.“ by Bill Pruitt
- “Well, I think Mark Burnett was over a barrel, frankly. The network said, we'll greenlight your show, Mark, but you need to find the guy who's willing to unlock the doors to his or her kingdom and present themselves fully.“ by Bill Pruitt
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Episode Information
What Next | Daily News and Analysis
Slate Podcasts
5/30/24