I like being on a first name basis. My last name may be what is most recognized around the world, but my parents were living examples of how much a first name counts.

At each stop on every tour, my father would not only know the venue owner by name, he would spend time getting to know the parking lot attendant as well.

My mother would befriend the spotlight operator and know that the woman selling concessions recently got married. I know their warmth was the reason hundreds of thousands of people around the world also called them “Mother and Father.” 

I inherited their curiosity about life and their innate interest in everyone.

One of my favorite comments from people I’ve met over the years at my book signings, speaking engagements, concerts, doll shows and signings, and even walking through an airport terminal is this: “Marie, I feel like I know you.” 

Yesterday, here in New York City, a television executive asked me “Why, at this stage in your life and career, would you want to take on a new talk show?”

I could tell you that it’s an “Osmond thing.” We love a good challenge.

(Why else would I have signed on to learn 15 new dances in 10 weeks on Dancing With the Stars? At one point, I had a bruise on my hip that looked like the profile of Elvis!) However, the real reason for my enthusiasm about my talk show is that I want to create a place where a woman can tune in and feel like she’s in the backyard, talking over the fence with girlfriends and neighbors. I want to talk about and listen to all the aspects of living that you share with someone you know on a “first name” basis. And I’m to the point in my life that, chances are, I’ve probably been through it, too. 

As a single mom with eight kids, a forty-year entertainment and business career, and an international charity (Children’s Miracle Network), I’ve had times of immense joy and times of incredible challenge and sorrow.   And my women friends have always given me the best advice, a lot of comfort, and countless “hearty” laughs. 

Marie the talk show is going to be full of possibilities, and right now…along with Program Partners….I’m in the process of creating and shaping what some of those possibilities will be. This is fun stuff. Obviously, I can’t wait to get started. So, if you see me around town…or around the country…I’d love to meet you and hear your thoughts. Tell me your first name. Okay? 

-Marie Osmond