Mark Cuban, a renowned entrepreneur and longtime investor on Shark Tank, has officially exited the show. After first appearing as a guest panelist in 2011 and then becoming a full-time “shark” in 2012, Cuban confirmed that the Season 16 finale, airing on May 16, 2025, would be his last appearance. He took to social media on May 15 to reflect on the departure, writing, “Gonna miss it. But it was time to move on.”
Leaving a Legacy While Prioritizing Family and Inspiring Future Generations of Entrepreneurs
Cuban had previously hinted at his decision to step away in 2023, noting the legacy he believes he leaves behind. Speaking on the All The Smoke podcast, he expressed pride in how the show has empowered aspiring entrepreneurs from all walks of life. “We’ve trained multiple generations of entrepreneurs,” he said, emphasizing how Shark Tank has inspired individuals from across the country to believe in the possibility of turning ideas into successful businesses.
Mark Cuban Bids Farewell to Shark Tank After 13 Years to Focus on Family and Entrepreneurial LegacyA significant factor behind Cuban’s departure is his desire to spend more time with his family. In an October interview with People, he explained how the filming schedule, typically in June and September, conflicted with his children’s school calendar. Now that his kids—Alexis, Alyssa, and Jake—are teenagers, he felt it was important to be more present in their lives and not miss important milestones.
Parting Ways with a Family Built on Innovation and Shared Entrepreneurial Dreams
Despite his readiness to leave, Cuban admitted that the decision to say goodbye wasn’t easy. Over the years, the Shark Tank cast and crew had become like a second family to him. He acknowledged the deep bonds formed through long filming days and annual reunions, saying, “Most of them have been here for 15 years… We all look forward to getting together twice a year.”
Though his time on Shark Tank has come to an end, Cuban’s influence will continue to resonate. From mentoring entrepreneurs to investing in groundbreaking ideas, he helped shape the show into a platform for innovation and empowerment. As he steps into a new chapter, fans and fellow sharks alike will undoubtedly remember his dynamic presence and contributions with admiration and gratitude.