Marie Osmond promoted her new radio show, "Marie and Friends" yesterday afternoon, Mar. 9, at Thanksgiving Point in Alpine. The popular recording and television personality recently began airing her adult talk show on contemporary radio stations across the country.

Speaking to an audience of family, friends and media personnel, Osmond expressed her excitement at the launch of her new show.

"I love radio," Osmond said. "I love the format. It's not about the visual - it's about heart and mind. It's not what you see, but what you say."

Osmond expressed frustration at the most recent media frenzy - reality television.

"Radio is the new medium and it is the true reality," she said. "It's spontaneous. It's now."

Osmond shared animated stories of listeners who had already phoned in with unique stories. She stressed her show was going to be different than any other show, and would be "conversation safe."

"You will hear things that you won't hear anywhere else," Osmond said.

Osmond said she is also excited that a real mix of demographics are tuning in.

"My 78-year-old mother listens and I have teenagers complimenting me on the show," Osmond said. "We're even getting truck drivers!"

A Utah native and former BYU student, Osmond began her career at the age three, and has continued to dazzle audiences with her appealing personality and upbeat energy. Osmond acknowledged her Utah background and said the performing arts emphasis at BYU contributed to her success.

"The top producers on Broadway make three stops when they are touring across the country: New York, Los Angeles and Utah," she said. "That's one of the reasons I love BYU - the arts are incredible. I think I already have my entertainment degree, but I also love psychology. Eventually I'd love to get my degree in psychology from BYU."

Eric Hauenstein, vice president and general manager of KBEE-FM radio, said in a news release that he is excited about having Marie aboard.

"Marie Osmond is perfect for B98.7," Hauenstein said. "She's fun, upbeat and with eight kids, she's the ultimate soccer mom!"

Osmond broadcasts daily from an at-home studio in Provo, sharing her experiences as a wife and mother. The show can be heard locally on B98.7 in Salt Lake City daily from 3-8 p.m.



Copyright Brigham Young University 10 Mar 2004