Branson to star in reality TV tycoon show

Wannabe tycoons will travel the world with billionaire businessman Richard Branson for a new reality TV show, it was announced today.

The young hopefuls will join the entrepreneur on his seemingly never-ending global business tour and each week he will throw one contestant off the show.

The last standing budding billionaire will be “an extraordinary individual who has the right stuff to follow in his footsteps”, said Mike Darnell of the US network Fox.

Fox decided to embark on the plan after seeing the huge success of property tycoon Donald Trump’s reality show The Apprentice, in which contestants compete to for a job in his massive Trump casinos and real estate empire.

The new show – with the working title Branson’s Big Adventure – will show a close glimpse of Branson’s personal and business adventures as he globe-trots, keeping tabs on his business.

His potential protegés will see the obstacles he has had to overcome to become one of Britain’s most famous and wealthy entrepreneurs.

Mr Darnell said: “In six weeks, these people will experience challenges and adventures beyond their wildest imagination.

“It’s not about business acumen. It’s really about finding someone to follow in his footsteps. It’s about judgment and morality and loyalty tests.”

Network bosses are refusing to say what the prize will be.

“It’s a big big ending. I’m not going any further,” said Mr Darnell.

Fox Entertainment president Gail Berman told the Hollywood trade magazine, Variety: “We’re talking about epic storytelling here.

“If we were looking for someone to show younger people how to do it with adventure and flair, (Branson) is the guy to do it.

“He will undoubtedly have many life lessons to share.”

Branson, who founded the Virgin Records label before expanding into trains, planes, publishing, drinks and financial services, has never been publicity-shy.

His stunts, including attempts to circle the globe by hot air balloon have made him a household name.

While the new show bears similarities to “The Apprentice”, Fox insists it is not simply a carbon copy.