Trump fires Kepcher on 'The Apprentice'

By Stone Martindale Aug 31, 2006, 20:19 GMT

Titan Donald Trump signs autographs prior to the game between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees at Fenway Park in Boston Massachusetts EPA/CJ GUNTHER

Mega mogul Donald Trump has fired his blonde co-star Carolyn Kepcher on the reality show "The Apprentice," according to an article in today's New York Post.

The Post reports Trump thought Kepcher was becoming a "prima donna," and was more focused on being a TV star than on doing her job.

"Being on 'The Apprentice' went to her head. She was no longer focused on business. She was giving speeches for $25,000 and doing endorsements," said an unnamed person quoted in the New York Post as an "insider."

Kepcher, 36, ran the Westchester, New York Trump National Golf Club as well as appearing as Trump's panel judge on his show. She has two children.

"The Apprentice's" website states that: "Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and eldest son Donald Jr. will fill in for Carolyn Kepcher and George Ross respectively, during multiple episodes." The website does not reflect the news that Kepcher has been dismissed from the show, but it is likely that Ivanka Trump will replace Kepcher permanently.

The Post reports that at least one person close to Trump said that the split with Kepcher was amicable. "Trump told her what she had to do was take some time off and spend it with her family, and then get another job," the paper quoted an insider as saying. "They have a great relationship."