"Celebrity Apprentice" renewed for next season

(CBS) Even before  Donald Trump  pulled out of the GOP field for president, NBC had said it was signing "Celebrity Apprentice" for another season. Network executives were not willing to cut the show, even if Donald Trump couldn't return as host  because he was  pursuing politics.

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If Trump had chosen to run in the 2012 presidential election, he would not have been allowed to host the show unless NBC gave equal time to all other candidates.

NBC Entertainment's chairman Bob Greenblatt said he believed the show would  still thrive without Trump.

"If he decides to run for president and is unavailable to do the show, we will bring the show back and someone else will be sitting at the head of the boardroom table,"  Greenblatt said.

However, he did go on to say that he wishes Trump will stay with them. "He's a fascinating, entertaining smart direct shooter type of guy," he said.

The show is nearing the end of its current season with only two celebrity contestants left.