US President-elect Donald Trump has made an exciting pick for a key diplomatic role! On Saturday, he announced that Mark Burnett, the television executive behind Trump’s hit reality show The Apprentice, will take on a new position as special envoy to the United Kingdom. This is a big deal, as the UK is one of America’s closest allies.
Sharing the news on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump praised Burnett’s impressive background in TV production and business. “Mark brings a unique mix of diplomacy and international fame to this important role,” he wrote.
Unlike a traditional ambassador, Burnett’s position doesn’t require Senate confirmation. Instead, he’ll focus on strengthening ties between the US and the UK in areas like trade, investments, and cultural exchanges. Trump added, “Mark will work to enhance our relationship and find new opportunities for collaboration.”
Earlier this month, Trump also nominated Warren Stephens, a billionaire and top Republican donor, to be the US ambassador to Britain.
As for Burnett, his résumé speaks for itself. Born in London, he’s an Emmy-winning producer who created some of the biggest shows on TV, including Survivor, Shark Tank, and The Voice. From 2018 to 2022, he also served as chairman of MGM Worldwide Television Group.
But perhaps his most iconic creation was The Apprentice, which aired for 15 seasons starting in 2004. The show didn’t just entertain millions—it helped cement Trump’s image as a business mogul and cultural icon in the US, paving the way for his eventual run for president.
“The Apprentice redefined him on a massive scale, turning Trump into a symbol of American success,” noted a 2018 profile of Burnett in The New Yorker.
With his creative flair and knack for making big ideas happen, Burnett seems ready to take on this exciting new chapter. Let’s see what this unique partnership brings to the table!
