'Reality has overtaken satire': Observers pounce as Trump gives job to TV producer

Donald Trump on Saturday announced the appointment of reality TV producer Mark Burnett to a position in the upcoming administration, resulting in barbs from observers and critics.

"It is my great honor to appoint Mark Burnett as the Special Envoy to the United Kingdom. With a distinguished career in television production and business, Mark brings a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition to this important role," Trump wrote over the weekend. "Mark is known for creating and producing some of the biggest shows in Television History, including 'Survivor,' 'Shark Tank,' 'The Voice' and, most notably, 'The Apprentice.' He is the former Chairman of MGM, and has won 13 Emmy Awards!"

Trump added, "Mark will work to enhance diplomatic relations, focusing on areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment opportunities, and cultural exchanges."

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Katrina vandenHeuvel, The Nation's Editorial Director and Publisher, said, "Reality has overtaken satire."

Former campaign field organizer Connie Cassidy said, "This is Burnett’s reward for keeping his mouth shut."

A former colleague of Burnett, who chose to comment anonymously out of fear of potential retribution, told Raw Story that Burnett "is the most two-faced person." The individual added that, in their opinion, Burnett "has very questionable ethics, and morals."

Economist and author Sam Freedman further noted that Burnett "fought in the Falklands War."

David Bloomberg, a writer who focuses on Reality TV and Survivor, said "Mark Burnett, you're disgusting."