You're f...ull of it

Is The Apprentice killing marketing?

I am glad your piece went on to qualify, though in my view still nowhere near enough.

'BBC TV’s The Apprentice is a rare thing...'

And long may it remain so, though now its ratings success is proven, if nothing else, we will be cursed with the rush and glut of '1st to be second' inferior me-toos that will already be in can. However...

'.. – an example of broadcasting that not only entertains,'

Without a doubt, as does Dragon's Den. Or any spectacle that is the TV of the Coliseum. Only at least there the protagonists are seen on their actual merits, even if the fight is rigged, without key aspects being consigned to the cutting floor if they do not fit the 'narrative'.

'... but also educates...'

Sorry, can't agree. It shows 'something' as real that is not. That is not education.

'... and promotes the world of business to the wider UK population.' Again, sorry, no way. It presents a notion of business to sofa surfers who also think that X Factor is how you get rich and famous in music. Which serves but a minute sliver of society who make bazillions out of the lie. Mainly in media.

'Not only that, but it does so very, very well – it’s hugely popular across all demographics.' Latter, yes, self-evidently, though I suspect for all the wrong reasons. The former? Well, as you'll gather, I fear I must take another view.