Do we really need to install cement backing when installing MARBLE tile on PAINTED drywall?

We have drywall in our kitchen that was painted with a smooth semi-gloss paint a good 8 yrs ago. We'd like to install 3';x6'; tumbled marble as a backsplash over the drywall. It's about 1/4'; thick so probably slightly heavier than say, the tiny square glass tiles that come on a 12';x12'; netting. One person at the Home Depot said we could just sand and scrape up the drywall and then apply the thinset and install the marble. Another said we might want to use a cement backing. We aren't really DIYers and would so we don't want to create extra work with the cement backing if it isn't needed. That said, we don't want the drywall to start peeling and the marble tiles to start falling off after a short amount of time.





Please advise. Thank you!Do we really need to install cement backing when installing MARBLE tile on PAINTED drywall?
I would recommend screwing wonder board over the drywall before putting the tile up. This will give you a long lasting application. It will not up your cost a whole lot and you will be much happier in the long run.Do we really need to install cement backing when installing MARBLE tile on PAINTED drywall?
ild install a 1/4' hardyboard board first -the thinset will not last sticking the tiles to the paint