Jana Denzel, a Harley Street dentist and contestant on the BBC’s The Apprentice, dramatically departed the show after producers reprimanded him for describing a black person as “coloured.”
Although the BBC insists his exit was unrelated to the remark, Dr Denzel – who had already undergone diversity training – says the other candidates were simply more passionate about winning the £250,000 investment than he was.
During a task focused on creating a character for a marketing campaign, Dr Denzel’s use of the word “coloured” offended two female team members. The incident was escalated to the production team, leading to discussions with the show’s bosses and prompting Dr Denzel to receive diversity training to underline why the term is deemed unacceptable.
In a departure that was finally aired during the show’s fifth episode. Speaking more about why he was leaving, Dr Denzel said: ‘I had an incredible experience on the show, but after much deliberation, I realised it wasn’t the right path for me. ‘Regardless of the outcome of the task, I had already made the decision to step away as I didn’t feel it was right for me to continue when there were so many talented candidates who wanted it more than I did. ‘My business and my family have always been my priority, and I wanted to get back to them.
‘I’m very grateful for the experience and I’ll cherish all the brilliant people I’ve met along the way and I’m now looking forward to supporting everyone from the sidelines and focussing on growing my business, which I’m so passionate about.’
Although rumours circulated that the racism row influenced his decision, the BBC said he withdrew for “separate reasons.”
Dr Denzel, whose parents fled war-torn Sri Lanka, runs a cosmetic dentistry practice in London’s Harley Street, catering to a roster of A-list clients. His mother and father have publicly defended their son, claiming his words were misunderstood and emphasising that he was raised to value inclusivity and respect for all cultures.
The Apprentice continues on BBC One, with viewers now left to speculate on who will ultimately secure Lord Sugar’s £250,000 investment.
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The Apprentice’s Jana Denzel quits series amid racism controversy