The Apprentice spoilers follow.
Series 17 of The Apprentice kicked off with a bang, sending one of the candidates home after a challenging task in the dreamy Caribbean islands.
Tonight's (January 5) premiere saw Lord Sugar and his aides, Karren Brady and Claude Littner, welcoming this year's 18 contestants.
By the end of the episode, Emma Browne was asked to pack her bags, leaving the chance to become Lord Sugar's next business partner behind. But how did we get here? Via Antigua, as one does.
Related: The Apprentice star Claude Littner reveals he almost ditched Lord Sugar for rival show
This season's first task focussed on reviving the island's tourism now that Covid-19 travel restrictions have been lifted.
The candidates were divided into two teams – the women, led by flight attendant Victoria Goulbourne, vs the men, led by safari guide Joseph Phillips – to work on a bespoke tour. As usual, the group generating the most profits would win.
The women decided on a catamaran cruise and a pottery class for $135, while the guys opted for a history tour and desserts and rum tasting for $150.
Related: The Apprentice's Lord Sugar confirms future of the show beyond 2023
The first day saw the teams trying and securing customers, resorting to drop the price significantly to sell those hot tickets.
The men managed to sell all 16, but the women only placed 12 after struggling to find prospective buyers at Pigeon's Point Beach. The location was a point of contention for the girls, who bickered over who decided to go to the beach instead of a more crowded spot.
On day two, the groups led their respective excursions. While most men weren't adequately prepared to deliver Antiguan history facts, online antique seller Gregory Ebbs saved the day with his knowledge, impressing Karen. Meanwhile, the women tried to boost profits by selling pictures taken on the beach and handmade ceramics.
At the end of their Antiguan adventure, the candidates met with Sugar in the boardroom for the final decision.
Related: The Apprentice's Claude Littner opens up about bike accident
The boys' final profit ($989) was twice that of the girls' ($487.50), meaning that at least one of the women would go home.
After a heated chat, Lord Sugar had to decide who would leave the process. The choice was between project manager Victoria, senior account executive Emma Brown, who was accused of arguing over the location, and court advocate Marnie Swindells, tasked with selling tickets.
Marnie and Victoria both believed Emma should be fired, and Lord Sugar seemed to agree. Emma was sent home for causing disruption within the team, while the other two women joined their fellow contestants at the house.
The Apprentice airs on BBC One, with spin-off series You're Fired airing immediately afterwards on BBC Two.
