The Apprentice is back on our screens tonight (Thursday, January 20) for the third time this year.
At the beginning of episode three, it was revealed that the 14 remaining candidates had to create a non-alcoholic beverage.
However, shortly before contestants had the chance to start brainstorming drink ideas, Shama Amin asked Lord Sugar if she could make an announcement.
READ MORE: The Apprentice: Meet the Bristolian who is already a fan favourite
Speaking in front of her fellow hopeful candidates and Lord Sugar himself at Mercato Metropolitano, the 41-year-old mother-of-five said: "I suffer from a condition called rheumatoid arthritis. Because of medical reasons, due to this process being so physically demanding, despite all the efforts the whole team has made to support me, I've made the difficult decision to leave the process.
"I'd just like to thank you for this opportunity."
Receiving shocked and sympathetic reactions from her fellow contestants, Shama was then wished well by Lord Sugar.
The 74-year-old said: "Well Shama, I'm really sad to hear that. I wish you and your family all the best for the future."
Speaking outside after announcing her departure, Shama, the owner of a children's day nursery, shed light on her condition.
She said: "Mentally, I was strong enough to carry on but my body wasn't allowing me to carry on, so I had no choice but to make a difficult decision like that."
Meanwhile, fans have taken to social media to express their disappointment that Shama has left the competition, with many wishing her well.
Ellie said: "I hope whoever wins this series knows they came 2nd to shama."
Other viewers could relate to Shama's pain, with Pickle saying on Twitter: "Sad to see Shama had to leave, but I understand how hard just functioning can be with rheumatoid arthritis, let alone doing 13+ hour days & running around all over the place. Rheumatoid arthritis is more than just joint pain #TheApprentice #rheumatoidarthritis."
Jessy said: "#TheApprentice big love to Shama Amin, decisions like that for your own well-being are not easy at all. That beginning really touched home."
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