Mark Cuban delivered an emotional farewell to his Shark Tank family during a poignant goodbye segment aired on May 16, 2023, as part of Season 16, Episode 20. This particular episode celebrated Cuban’s remarkable 15-year journey on the show, where he played a pivotal role in supporting emerging entrepreneurs.
In the aftermath of this season finale, Cuban reflected on his departure in an exclusive interview with People. When queried about a potential return to Shark Tank, he expressed uncertainty but hinted at the possibility of returning after his children complete school. Nevertheless, he maintained a realistic view, suggesting that a comeback might be unlikely.
“Who knows? Maybe after my kids are all out of school I’ll come on and raise hell again — but I doubt it,”he remarked regarding his potential return to the show.
Mark Cuban Reveals His Reasons for Leaving Shark Tank
For those unfamiliar, Cuban’s exit from Shark Tank was announced back in November 2023, as he aims to dedicate more time to his family. Since the show’s debut in 2011, he has been a constant presence, offering advice and investment guidance to numerous entrepreneurs.
His farewell on the final episode of season 16 marks the conclusion of a significant chapter not just for him, but also for the many entrepreneurs who benefitted from his insights. Reflecting on changes in his family life since filming his last season, Cuban shared that he had wrapped up filming about eight months ago and typically does not film during this period, which has limited any noticeable changes so far.
With filming scheduled in June and September, he expressed excitement about finally being available to celebrate family milestones such as his wife’s, son’s, and eldest daughter’s birthdays, which he often missed due to shooting schedules.
“In the fall, I’ll be able to finally be home for my wife, son’s, and oldest daughter’s birthdays. We almost always were shooting then,”Cuban explained.
He humorously added, “They will have more time to ignore me and tell me how I’m not as cool as I think I am. All of which I love.”Cuban’s poignant sentiments revealed his eagerness to share quality time with his family, indulging in dad jokes and relatable family moments.
Despite feeling no regrets about his decision to depart from the show, Cuban acknowledged there will certainly be elements he will miss. Notably, he held high praise for his collaborations with the Shark Tank crew, including fellow investors and production staff. He conveyed that they were the people he would miss the most.
Reflecting on his transformative experience, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of Shark Tank, emphasizing how it elevated his celebrity status to newfound heights.
“To be recognized everywhere I went, here in the USA and wherever Shark Tank played globally. It completely changed my life,”he concluded.
Fans can catch all episodes of Shark Tank Season 16, currently available on ABC.