Osmond says her talk show's been scrapped

LOS ANGELES, July 31 (UPI) -- Program Partners has announced the proposed North American talk show, "Marie," starring Marie Osmond, will not be going forward for a fall start as planned.

The production company blamed "deteriorating economic conditions in the broadcasting, advertising and credit markets" for the decision, stating, these conditions were simply too unfavorable to support the anticipated large-scale production with the level of resources required for a fall debut.

The daily hour-long talk show was scheduled to begin in syndication in September and had been picked up in more than 80 percent of the United States and Canada.

"We acknowledge with gratitude the many stations, advertisers and marketing partners who have been totally enthusiastic and incredibly patient with us as we worked hard to maintain solid footing for this project," Ritch Colbert of Program Partners, said in a statement. "Our belief in Marie's creative vision for a new kind of talk show is unshakable, but in the end, the marketplace this year was simply unyielding."

"I want to express my deep appreciation for the faithful support and dedication shown by the numerous stations," Osmond added. "It was my sincere desire to return their enthusiastic responses by producing an exceptional talk show for their fall schedules ... This project, under proper conditions, still remains a strong passion of mine."

Marie is currently performing five musical stage shows a week at the Flamingo in Las Vegas with her brother Donny.