When the producers and stars gathered for The CW’s upcoming new show “The Beautiful Life,” there was one prominent player missing in action — troubled star Mischa Barton, USA Today reports.

Producer Ashton Kutcher assured the assembled press that Barton was busy at work on the show back in New York. Contrary to previous reports that included the actress being hospitalized, Kutcher said that “she was never unavailable for a day of work."

“The Beautiful Life” tells the story of a Midwestern farm boy who gets picked to be a fashion model. The show is set to premiere Sept.16 on the CW.

–Allison J. Waldman