Shark Tank Season 16 Finale: Bold Pitches and Emotional Goodbyes
The highly anticipated finale of Shark Tank Season 16, titled "Season Finale, Bold Pitches," aired on May 16, 2025. This episode marked a significant moment in the show’s history, as it served as a heartfelt farewell to Mark Cuban, a staple of the panel for many years. As the Sharks prepared to bid adieu to their colleague, a new wave of entrepreneurs entered the Tank, each hoping to secure a partnership that could elevate their businesses to new heights.
A Farewell to Mark Cuban
Mark Cuban’s departure from Shark Tank was not just a personal milestone; it symbolized the end of an era for the show. Known for his candid advice and sharp business acumen, Cuban’s presence has been a defining feature of the series. As he shared his reflections and memories, the emotional weight of the moment resonated with both the Sharks and the audience. The finale was not only about the pitches but also about celebrating the journey and contributions of a beloved figure in the entrepreneurial landscape.
The Entrepreneurs and Their Pitches
The episode featured a diverse lineup of entrepreneurs, each presenting unique products that showcased creativity and innovation.
Bigg A** Luxuries: Hand-Crafted Candles
The first pitch came from a Texas-based candle brand, Bigg A** Luxuries. The entrepreneurs sought $500,000 for a 5% stake, valuing their business at $10 million. Their hand-crafted natural candles, priced between $179 and $284, aimed to offer "affordable luxury." While Daymond John and Mark Cuban opted out due to conflicts of interest and lack of expertise in home decor, Lori Greiner and Kevin O’Leary engaged in a bidding war. Ultimately, the entrepreneurs successfully negotiated with Lori, settling on a deal for $250,000 in exchange for a 13% stake.
Deviled Egg Co.: Gourmet Delights
Next up were Alexi Wellman and Rachel Van Buskirk from Deviled Egg Co., who showcased their gourmet deviled eggs. Seeking $150,000 for a 5% stake, they aimed to expand their grab-and-go model. With nearly $1 million in sales, their pitch caught the attention of the Sharks. While Daymond bowed out, Barbara Corcoran and Kevin O’Leary made competitive offers. In a surprising twist, Mark Cuban and Barbara teamed up to offer a joint deal of $250,000 for 20%, which the entrepreneurs accepted.
TiCK MiTT: A Unique Solution
The third pitch featured the TiCK MiTT, a tick removal mitt created by Stevie and Olivia Abrams. They sought $250,000 for a 10% stake. Despite the Sharks appreciating the product, they struggled with the valuation. Barbara’s offer of 30% equity was too steep for the entrepreneurs, and they ultimately left the Tank without a deal after declining Kevin’s proposal, which included a royalty structure.
Stringys: Invisible Underwear
The final pitch of the night came from Olivia and Elvira, who introduced their innovative "invisible" underwear. Seeking $300,000 for a 5% stake, they faced skepticism regarding their $6 million valuation. Kevin’s initial offer included a royalty, but after negotiations, they settled on a deal with Barbara for $300,000 in exchange for 3% equity and a lower royalty rate.
Celebrating Mark Cuban’s Legacy
As the episode drew to a close, the emotional weight of Mark Cuban’s departure was palpable. The panelists shared their favorite moments from past seasons, celebrating the impact he had on the show and the entrepreneurs who walked through the Tank. The heartfelt cheers of "Chevaliers du Tastevin!" echoed, encapsulating the camaraderie and respect among the Sharks.
Shark Tank continues to be a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs, and Season 16’s finale was a fitting tribute to its legacy, blending bold pitches with emotional farewells. The episode is available for streaming on Hulu, allowing fans to relive the excitement and nostalgia of this landmark moment in reality television.
