Shark Tank season 16 has currently aired six episodes on ABC. The show's format brings entrepreneurs and investors together, with the latter providing financial backing to help the former grow their businesses. Shark Tank first debuted in the US on August 9, 2009, and gained massive popularity worldwide, leading to successful adaptations in various countries.
The show features various sharks who listen to entrepreneurs' pitches and invest in what they find promising ventures. Mark Cuban announced his departure on the All The Smoke podcast last year, where he had been a regular since the third season.
In an interview with US Weekly on October 21, Kevin O'Leary shared his thoughts on Mark Cuban's departure from Shark Tank. Kevin admitted that he attempted to persuade Cuban to reconsider his decision, citing his long-standing presence on the show. However, O'Leary also acknowledged that he understands Cuban's reasons for leaving, which were rooted in his desire to prioritize family.
“I tried to turn him around on that decision because he’s been part of the DNA of the show for so long,” stated Kevin.
Kevin O'Leary felt emotional during last taping with Mark Cuban on Shark Tank
Kevin O'Leary described Mark Cuban's final Shark Tank taping as emotional but emphasized that the show's focus is on the entrepreneurs, not the sharks. He called the entrepreneurs the true stars, with the sharks serving as guides and supporters. O'Leary believes the sharks nurture and fund entrepreneurs, showcasing their ideas and acting as ambassadors for the American dream.
“They will go on and on and on and on, and that’s what we all understand and our job is to nurture them, fund them, try and pick the winners because we don’t get it right all the time and provide the platform and be those ambassadors for the American dream,” Kevin stated.
Mark Cuban in is doubt if he'll do another reality show after Shark Tank
After leaving the reality show after season 16, Cuban may be done with reality television altogether. In an October 14 interview with The Wrap, when asked if he would lead another business-centered show or return to reality TV, Cuban expressed doubt. Cuban's decision to exit Shark Tank is driven by his desire to spend more time with his family.
“I’m getting asked that a lot now that people know that I’m leaving, I doubt it,” Mark said.
As a billionaire investor, he is now prioritizing family life over his television commitments. With his children now teenagers, Cuban wants to be more present in their lives.
He explained that the filming schedule, which takes place in June and September, often conflicts with his ability to spend time with his kids during their school breaks. Although many would miss Mark Cuban's presence in the reality show, it won't mark the end of his involvement entirely. The shark has still commitments to fulfill with the companies he has invested in through the show.
According to Nasdaq, Cuban has financially backed 85 companies during his time on Shark Tank. He will continue to provide updates on these investments, effectively ensuring a continued presence on the show, albeit in a more limited capacity.