As Real Housewives of New Jersey continues into its 14th season, two notable cast mates aren’t speaking to, or even about, one another. Of course, it’s the never-ending feud between Melissa Gorga and her sister-in-law Teresa Giudice. And Joe Gorga is caught in the middle.
It’s this dynamic that made RHONJ a hit. And now, the stakes are even higher as Joe is also not speaking to his sister. The veteran Bravolebrity recently shared why it is that he chose to ice Teresa out of his life. Naturally, it has to do with supporting his wife, who appeared alongside Joe during an appearance on Sherri.
Joe explained his decision, “you have to embrace my life”
Melissa notably told a RHONJ producer in a confessional that she “really” didn’t want to speak about Teresa. That included answering questions about her infamous sister-in-law. But could they be on speaking terms again?
“Not right now,” Melissa told host Sherri Shepherd. “You know what it is when someone is never happy for you or your marriage, it becomes very difficult when — sometimes you have to take the toxic and say listen, this is very toxic.”
The Envy boutique owner was trying to work towards peace for years but realized she couldn’t take on the burden anymore.
“Enough’s enough, and we’re done with the toxic,” Melissa stated.
That includes her husband, by proxy. It’s a situation that’s difficult for Joe, who describes his relationship with Teresa as being “best friends growing up.” However, he’s accepted the situation.
“[Melissa’s] been my life for 20 years. I have three children with her – that is my life,” he explained. “You have to embrace my life. You can’t try to tear my life down for what reason? I have to make a choice… and I can’t be around somebody trying to hurt me.”
Cutting Teresa out of their lives may be working for their emotional and mental well-being, but it’s bad news for the show. Bravo recently announced that there would not be a traditional reunion for RHONJ Season 14.
Catch Real Housewives of New Jersey Sundays at 8/7c on Bravo.