The popular reality series Undercover Boss USA made a return on Monday with a previously aired episode that sparked significant reactions among viewers after a surprising dismissal of an employee. The episode featured Jane Grote Abell, the chairwoman of Donatos Pizza and daughter of the company’s founder, who went undercover posing as a new employee and contestant for a faux reality television programme.

The hidden cameras followed Abell as she visited the Donatos Pizza location situated on the Ohio State University campus. There, she teamed up with Aaron, a delivery driver, whose candid revelations left her visibly shocked. During their conversation, Aaron disclosed that he occasionally indulged in smoking marijuana while on the job, stating, “A lot of people smoke pot, and they will invite me to come in for a little bit. If I’m not very busy and I don’t need to be super focused then I’ll kind of indulge.”

Abell’s reaction to Aaron’s admission was one of surprise and distress. She considered removing her disguise and taking immediate action against him after hearing his comments. When the truth about her identity was finally revealed, she confronted Aaron directly, saying, “So, Aaron, when you told me you smoked pot on the job, I’ve never been so angry in my life.” Aaron attempted to downplay the situation, but Abell made it clear that his actions were unacceptable.

Following a tense exchange, Abell informed Aaron that he would be terminated from his position as a delivery driver. However, she offered him a chance to remain with the company in a kitchen role, contingent upon him passing a drug test within the next 30 days. Aaron expressed gratitude for this opportunity, stating, “Jane kind of fired me and I’m glad she’s taking into account all of the positives in me. I’m glad she’s giving me the opportunity she’s giving me.”

The episode, originally aired in 2019, resurfaced recently, provoking a flurry of reactions on social media as viewers voiced their strong opinions on the incident. One viewer expressed outrage, asserting, “He put himself and others in danger. And now the CEO!!! Are you kidding me!!! She should have fired him no questions asked!!! He knew he did wrong!!!” Another viewer echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Well, she has no choice but telling him this cannot be tolerated.”

Conversely, other social media users urged a more nuanced perspective. One observer pointed out that the situation should be viewed with additional context, remarking, “It’s really not that deep if you put things in perspective. He’s probably driving his own vehicle, being severely underpaid and he has a good reputation (which means a lot of experience) as a delivery driver so I assume he doesn’t get into many accidents, if any.”

Undercover Boss airs on weekdays at 11:10am on Channel 4 and is also available to stream on their platform.

Source: Noah Wire Services