You're Hired! The Apprentice producers seek Donald Trump's replacement as they talk to Richard Branson, Magic Johnson and Mark Cuban

By Dailymail.com Reporter

Published: 09:23 EST, 2 September 2015 | Updated: 12:27 EST, 2 September 2015

It's hard to imagine The Apprentice without a ranting Donald Trump giving hopefuls a piece of his mind.

But while the show's producers have cut ties with the Presidential hopeful, they are going ahead with the 15th season as planned. 

Big names approached to replace Trump include Virgin Group founder Richard Branson, LA Dodgers co-owner Magic Johnson and Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban.

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The new Trump? With his own record label, trans-Atlantic airline, hotel chain and a private island to call home, Richard Branson might be the obvious choice to replace Donald

The new Trump? With his own record label, trans-Atlantic airline, hotel chain and a private island to call home, Richard Branson might be the obvious choice to replace Donald

There is a hefty remuneration package on offer for the right candidate.

In July 2015, Trump reported in his personal financial disclosure statement with the Federal Election Commission that NBCUniversal had paid him $213,606,575 for his 14 seasons of hosting the show. 

While Trump was paid an estimated $3million per show - making him one of the highest paid personalities on TV - that huge pay packet in itself won't be enough to draw in a replacement entrepreneur of his stature.  

Ready for primetime? Mark Cuban and Magic Johnson have both been named as possible replacements
Ready for primetime? Mark Cuban and Magic Johnson have both been named as possible replacements

Ready for primetime? Mark Cuban and Magic Johnson have both been named as possible replacements

Indeed a love of the limelight and a flare for the theatrical are essential. 

With his own record label, trans-Atlantic airline, hotel chain and a private island to call home, Branson might be the obvious choice to replace Trump.

But while the 65-year-old may tick the boxes, the British billionaire's representative has dismissed speculation that he could be the next Trump.

Calling the report 'flattering', he said: 'his schedule would not enable him to do this.'

Moving on: Donald Trump, left, will run for President if he is selected to represent the Repbulican party

Moving on: Donald Trump, left, will run for President if he is selected to represent the Repbulican party

According to UsWeekly a source close to Cuban, 57, was equally dismissive. 

'Mark's not interested. He thinks Shark Tank is a way better show,' a source told UsWeekly.

Whatever happens Trump won't be back.

Not only is the 69-year-old busy competing to run as the Republican Party's Presidential hopeful, but NBC have also cut ties with him.

In June, amid widespread condemnation of Trump's comments about Mexican undocumented immigrants, the network released a statement 'ending its business relationship with Mr Trump.'

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