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'Celebrity Apprentice' Maria K on reteaming with Stone: 'It was awkward'

By April MacIntyre May 18, 2010, 17:10 GMT

01/10/2010 - Brett Michaels and Maria Kanellis - NBC Universal\'s Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour Cocktail Party - Arrivals - Langham Hotel - Pasadena, CA. USA © Albert L. Ortega / PR Photos

"Celebrity Apprentice" contestant Maria Kanellis is pooped. "We worked six days a week until four in the morning, often times!" shared the WWE Diva who was fired with Curtis Stone on the last episode.

On a conference call today, the ousted player shared her thoughts on the experience.

On Bret Michaels, "When I actually got to work with him [Bret Michaels] I was thoroughly impressed with him."

When asked who she thought would win,  Kanellis tipped her hand diplomatically.  "I am on Holly's team, and I have a cousin with autism, so I am torn." 

On Holly's money raising ability, Maria conceded Holly's talent. "She is a machine."

And the Donald? "Donald sees what you do on task, and what ideas you have, he doesn't see the celebrity."

Her abrupt exit was discussed. "It was... it was a let down. People make comments all the time in the boardroom but this is not our full-time job, but I was a bit surprised, my comment was meant as a joke, but people have different senses of humor."

On whether she ruined Curtis's studly image, "I cannot stand arrogant men, and with Curtis I think its his Australian accent, it comes over arrogant; it's totally his accent."

On who she will remain friends with. "oh Holly for sure...I'm sure I will keep up with Curtis," she added.

Why she did not step up as a project manager "Sharon really wanted to win money for her charity, it's hard when somebody has colon cancer, and Bret has years of experience... it would be unintelligent for me to take over the task..."

And she's starting a rock band too, "It's my baby, end of summer I will be on tour," Maria shared.

Last thoughts?  "No matter who the boss is, you have to remember that sometimes that they cannot see the creativity in the idea, you have to help them."