Mark Cuban, the prominent billionaire owner of the Dallas Mavericks, is bidding farewell to the iconic entrepreneur series, “Shark Tank,” where he gained widespread recognition. Speaking on the Showtime podcast “All The Smoke” with hosts and former NBA players Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, Cuban revealed that the upcoming 16th season would be his last on the show.
During the conversation, Jackson humorously likened Cuban’s departure to an athlete “hanging up the shoes,” to which Cuban responded affirmatively, stating, “It’s time.” Having been a part of “Shark Tank” for 15 years, Cuban expressed his love for the show, emphasizing its role in conveying the message that the American dream is alive and thriving.
Mark Cuban (Credits: Desimartini)
Cuban highlighted the show’s impact on aspiring entrepreneurs, noting that through “Shark Tank,” they have inspired multiple generations. Reflecting on the show’s ability to showcase individuals from various backgrounds, Cuban remarked, “Now we’ve got people coming on [saying] I watched you when I was 10 years old.”
Over the years, Cuban has invested in hundreds of companies featured on the show. While he acknowledged being “down a little bit” on a cash basis, he clarified that on a mark-to-market basis, considering the ongoing operations of the companies, he is “way up.”
As news of Cuban’s departure circulates, CNN has reached out to ABC for their official statement on the matter. Cuban’s legacy on “Shark Tank” and his impact on the entrepreneurial spirit in America is set to endure even as he prepares to conclude his tenure on the show.
