Entertainment

Rosie O’Donnell to host talk show on Oprah’s new TV network

Comedian Rosie O’Donnell will return to television to host a talk show on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), the company announced Thursday.

The Emmy-winning talk show host promises “a fun, uplifting show” in keeping with her “playful and energetic style.” The one-hour daily program will be based in New York and is scheduled to premiere in 2011.

“I’m excited to be back on daytime television,” O’Donnell said in a statement.

O’Donnell previously hosted a daytime talk show on NBC from 1996 to 2002.

“Rosie is an undeniable talent who has captivated TV audiences for nearly 20 years,” Winfrey said. “She’s a true original, who brings her authentic voice, dynamic energy and pure passion to everything she does.”

OWN, a joint venture between Winfrey and Discovery Communications, is set to launch in January 2011 to 80 million homes.