"The Rosie Show"

Credit: OWN

No one can say they didn't see this coming. After a truckload of hype, bad reviews and even more disappointing ratings, "The Rosie Show" will be shutting down. The final show will tape on Tues. March 20 and the final episode will air on Fri. March 30 at 7 p.m., which is probably an important detail only for the handful of people still watching it. Weighed down by dull monologues, endless interviews and a less appealing incarnation of O'Donnell herself, the show was a disappointment even by the fledgling network's basic cable expectations.

“I thank Rosie from the bottom of my heart for joining me on this journey.  She has been an incredible partner, working to deliver the best possible show every single day,” said Oprah Winfrey in a statement from OWN. “As I have learned in the last 15 months, a new network launch is always a challenge and ratings grow over time as you continue to gather an audience.  I’m grateful to Rosie and the dedicated Rosie Show team for giving it their all.”

“I loved working with Oprah in the amazing city of Chicago,” said Rosie O’Donnell.  “I was welcomed with open arms and will never forget the kindness of all I encountered. It was a great year for me - I wish the show was able to attract more viewers - but it did not.  So I am headed back to my home in New York - with gratitude.  On we go!”
 

Liane Bonin Starr
Sr. Editor

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Liane Bonin Starr is an author, screenwriter and former writer for EW.com. Her byline has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Variety and a lot of other places. Her last book was called "a scandalously catty, guilty pleasure" by Jane magazine. Expect the same from Starr Raving.