BBC viewers last night accused programme-makers of bullying contestants. It came as the notorious interview episode of The Apprentice was aired.
On Twitter, feelings were running high. Claire Donnachie said: “This is the last time I watch The Apprentice.”
The remaining five candidates – Dani Donovan, Megan Hornby, Victoria Goulbourne, Rochelle Anthony and Marnie Swindells – were grilled by Lord Sugar's team. All had their business plans ripped apart.
Read more: BBC The Apprentice un-aired moment from star left Karren Brady with 'tears running down face'
Claude Littner, Karren Brady, Mike Soutar and Linda Plant took it in turns to turn the heat on the contestants. In one angry exchange, Baroness Brady told Megan Horby that her business plan to launch an online sweet business was as "crazy as it comes" and had "no depth or substance".
The BBC was flooded with complaints on social media. Vice Chair of West Ham United Baroness Brady came in for particular criticism.
She was accused of bullying as two of the remaining candidates, who were both female, were left in tears after the gruelling process. It was Meghan who came off the worst.
The Baroness issued a brutal blow as Meghan thanked “Karren” for the interview. As she left the room, she snapped: "It's Baroness Brady to you, my friends call me Karren."
Viewers took to Twitter, with some insisting they could take no more. Claire Donnachie wrote: "#TheApprentice the interviewers appear to be bullying the finalists.
“They are not interviewing. This is the last time I watch the apprentice."
GrumpyThoughts said. "Actually finding this episode uncomfortable. Bullying these woman for not being confident enough?
“Imaginary numbers not good enough and some small spelling mistakes? This isn't dragons den. This is a show that's open to anyone with a business idea not CEOs ffs."
Jake Johnstone commented: "These interviews are actually just nasty. All for the cutting remarks and quips but some of this is just bullying."
Saj echoed: "This is on the verge of bullying …" Catherine Thomas agreed: "This is getting unpleasant - borderline bullying."
Jo added: "Why are people so rude on #TheApprentice? Take the business plan apart not the person. It’s become bullying not constructive criticism."
Meanwhile, Phil Shelton said: "Can’t believe I have just watched @karren_brady openly bully 2 people on tv on @bbcapprentice to tears. Where is the safeguarding by the @bbc for there candidates.
"How is this entertainment? Surely complaints should be lodged? Why is she so special money does not make the person"
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