From Rob J – Mr. Pop – “The Apprentice” was originally a huge hit for NBC and Donald Trump. Wasn’t there a knock-off show on another network?

Mr. Pop History – Isn’t there always? There’s no such thing as a vacuum in TV land. During the first season of “The Apprentice” – rival CBS and fashion guru Tommy Hilfiger got together to hatch, “The Cut.” Why not? The ratings for The Apprentice were high and like Trump, Hilfiger was a celebrity with his own high-profile business. By the time Apprentice season #2 came around – they were ready (that was quick).

Like Trump, Hilfiger hosted this one – which pitted 16 contestants against each other and the winner got to design a line for the Hilfiger label. A blatant rip-off. You gotta love it!
Hilfiger