Jack Dee steps down as host of Britain's 'The Apprentice: You're Fired' series

LONDON, March 19 (UPI) -- Jack Dee has stepped down as host of the British TV program The Apprentice: You're Fired, the BBC announced.

Dee took over The Apprentice's spin-off series in 2015, but, due to work commitments at the end of this year, he is unable to return for the forthcoming season.

He is currently taping episodes for Season 2 of the BBC sitcom Josh.

"It's been a tough decision to leave You're Fired," Dee said in a statement. "I'd like to thank The Apprentice team, BBC Two, the candidates and the 'Big Man' Lord Sugar himself for making me feel so welcome but now, in keeping with The Apprentice tradition, I am firing myself. Good luck with the next series."

"Jack is one of the most talented comedians in the United Kingdom and he very quickly made You're Fired his own. We are really sorry to see him go but we are also delighted to be working with him on a number of other projects," added Alan Tyler, acting controller of BBC Entertainment Commissioning.

A new host of You're Fired will be announced soon, the broadcaster said.