Credit: Instagram, Bravo
Teresa Giudice and Melissa Gorga are reportedly getting the blame for the dwindling ratings and the uncertain future of The Real Housewives of New Jersey.
Just days after it was confirmed that there would be no reunion for season 14, and after the series’ lowest-rated episode in history, which captured under 700,000 viewers, an insider claims that the cast is “blaming” the show’s lackluster season on Teresa, 52, and Melissa’s estrangement, which has led to a cast divide.
“It seems like the cast is in part blaming Teresa and Melissa’s feud for the poor ratings and the uncertain future,” the insider spilled to The U.S. Sun. “Fans followed their relationship since Melissa became a housewife in season three and they want to continue to see the ups and downs.”
Because Teresa and Melissa, 45, refused to interact with one another during filming on season 14, the rest of the ladies on the show have been forced to take sides, leading to a bad reaction from fans and talks of a reboot.
According to the report, the rest of the cast has been reading fan comments on social media, and from what they are seeing, it seems clear that viewers are not happy with the “change in dynamics and friendships.”
Throughout the first several episodes of RHONJ, the series has ventured away from the ongoing tension between Teresa and Melissa and began to focus on the other relationships amongst the group, including Teresa’s new friendships with Jackie Goldschneider, 47. It has also teased Danielle Cabral, 38, and Jennifer Aydin‘s upcoming fight.
The outlet’s source went on to say that prior to the news that the reunion was being canceled, a date was set for filming at the end of this month,
“And as of last week, the cast each got a phone call from the network and said to no longer hold the date because they’re not going to have a traditional reunion,” the insider shared. “There’s no resolution to how this season ends,” and once the “dramatic” finale airs, “it will become clear why there’s no reunion.”
During the taping of the finale, which was held at Rails Steakhouse in Towaco, New Jersey, the cast came to blows during a group dinner. And, as teased in the finale, at the end of the meal, the only one left seated at the table, which was surrounded by broken glass, was Dolores Catania, 52.
“All of the cast is in the dark about the reunion and even what’s going to happen after this season is over. It’s still too early to know about season 15 but everyone has no clue,” the source continued. “[They have] no clue if there is another season or even who is safe and who is on the chopping block.”
“It seems like the cast is more anxious about what’s going to happen next and just waiting for another update,” the insider said. “Everyone is walking on eggshells. They’re scared of speaking out and possibly having it backfire and putting their job on the line.”
Live Viewing Thread – This is also the live viewing thread for all new episode of the RHONJ season 14! So please feel free to chat and comment below as the episode airs on Bravo at 8/7c.
