As the dynamic reality show "Shark Tank" gears up to welcome a significant change, Mark Cuban is set to leave the panel after an impressive stretch of over a decade. In a groundbreaking move, Daniel Lubetzky, founder of the wildly successful Kind Snacks, is stepping in as the new permanent investor in this high-stakes entrepreneurial arena. The much-anticipated new season of "Shark Tank" is set to premiere on October 18.

This marks a pivotal moment for the series, which has been captivating audiences since its inception in 2009. Lubetzky’s multi-season contract promises to introduce fresh perspectives and energy into the lineup, which also includes seasoned investors Barbara Corcoran, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, Daymond John, and Kevin O'Leary.

Clay Newbill, the executive producer of "Shark Tank," described this change as an "inflection point" for the series, signaling new possibilities and directions for the beloved show. Lubetzky, who first appeared on the show five years ago, quickly became a fan favorite, often focusing on founders from the food sector. Known for his warm demeanor, he not only negotiates deals but also engages deeply with entrepreneurs’ personal stories, sharing candid insights from his own business journey and the lessons learned from failures along the way. He frequently draws upon the wisdom imparted to him by his father, a Holocaust survivor, emphasizing themes of resilience and determination.

A proud son of Mexico, Lubetzky’s entrepreneurial spirit was shaped early on as he watched his father run various businesses. After moving to the United States as a teenager, he launched Kind Snacks in 2004, a brand celebrated for its commitment to wholesome ingredients—free from artificial flavors and preservatives. Lubetzky’s partnership with Starbucks in 2009 catapulted Kind into the spotlight, and in 2020, the company was acquired by Mars Incorporated, valued at an astounding $5 billion.

As he steps into this new role, Lubetzky views it as an opportunity to inspire young viewers and families exploring the world of entrepreneurship together. "This show is an incredible way to contribute to the entrepreneurial conversation," he stated in a recent interview, highlighting the educational value that the show brings to its audience.

While Lubetzky is being welcomed onto the panel, he is not seen as a direct substitute for Cuban, who brought an unmistakable energy and flair to the show. In addition to Lubetzky, four new guest sharks are set to join the lineup, including venture capitalist Rashaun Williams and Todd Graves, CEO of Raising Cane's.

Reflecting on Cuban’s impact, Daymond John noted that the show's popularity surged during Cuban's tenure, particularly because of his engaging presence on social media and his participation in late-night talk shows. Those who tuned in often found Cuban’s unfiltered enthusiasm and bold risk-taking captivating, akin to his spirited appearances at Dallas Mavericks games, the NBA team he purchased in 2000.

Cuban announced his departure, expressing a desire to prioritize family time and focus on his prescription drug company. As he concludes his final season on "Shark Tank," he is thankful for the opportunity to be brutally honest with entrepreneurs, stating, "I tried to be myself and have fun with the process rather than conforming to traditional business practices."

With exciting changes on the horizon and a new voice joining the panel, the next season of "Shark Tank" promises to continue thrilling its audience while nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit.