It’s reality-check time for reality TV stars Teresa and Joe Giudice, of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” notoriety. Recently indicted on 39 fraud-related charges, the Giudices are facing possible prison sentences if found guilty.
With cast members in such hot water, Bravo — the network that airs the “Real Housewives” franchise — will have to figure out how to proceed for future seasons, especially if the Giudices serve time. Fans and detractors of the show have varying opinions on whether these legal troubles should serve as an opportunity for Bravo to reevaluate “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” or even the entire franchise.
Does the Giudice indictment warrant cancellation for “The Real Housewives”? Yahoo! asked contributors to weigh in and share their opinion on what the future of “Real Housewives” should entail.
All those in favor of cancellation…
“This brand has already had its share of controversy, and this latest development speaks volumes regarding the class of the franchise. Already a bottom-feeding franchise, Bravo needs to euthanize it and look elsewhere for revenue. People are hungry for positive images and actions. MTV showed good sense with the “Buckwild” debacle. Don’t let MTV outclass you, Bravo. Bravo should end the franchise completely and focus on quality programming.”
— Josh Jones
“The Real Housewives enterprise has brought the American people what they eat up the fastest: trash. The recent indictment of Teresa and Joe Giudice for fraud will strengthen the franchise, even though it should weaken it. Why, you ask? Because people love gossip. Instead of the Giudices feeling shame for their actions, they will receive more publicity, thereby reinforcing the notion that these actions are excusable. If very wealthy people are cheating and stealing, what is the middle and lower class to do? In my opinion, Bravo should cancel the entire Real Housewives series, but I’m betting that won’t happen.”
— RachelH
“I think the series “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” should be canceled not only because Teresa and Joe Giudice are having legal problems due to being indicted on fraud-related charges, but also because there are just too many reality shows on television in general. I would be grateful if Bravo put an end to all of their reality shows.”
— James Adams
Making a case against cancellation
“Though an indictment is not a conviction, this news will heat up fan sites across the country. Bravo couldn’t have asked for anything better to boost the ratings for the entire “Housewives” franchise. American viewers thrive on this style of “what happens next?” TV and they will be tuning in by the millions to find out. Bravo should keep the show. In reality TV, nothing could be more real than this.”
— Joanne K. Hall
“Reality TV is supposed to be about real life. If they cancel “RHONJ” the second that it starts to get real, then what does this say about reality television? I personally do not see any reason to cancel this show. People are arrested every single day. These accusations against Teresa and Joe Giudice have nothing to do with the show. They can let viewers see what goes down in this court case or they can keep going without Joe and Teresa. Regardless, the show must go on and this is not a good reason to cancel a franchise that brings in a ton of viewers to Bravo.”
— Mandy Robinson
“In light of this situation, should “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” be canceled? My answer: NO! Fans of “RHONJ” need to see the final resolution to this tale. Her imprisonment or lack thereof should culminate in a final season. “RHONJ” fans can get their last fix and Teresa Giudice could disappear for a while. The next time cameras roll a new and improved version of herself — single and in charge — could emerge, making for a great spinoff. (Take notes, Bravo!)”
— Stephanie Modkins
“After all these seasons of watching the Giudices live lavishly despite or even due to their shady activities, the audience should get to see the reality of their trial and incarceration. We’ve seen the fake glamour; we should see the real fallout. It’s time for these “Housewives” to get real.”
— Beth Weber
What do you think the fate of “Real Housewives” should be? Leave your take in the comments on how Bravo can best handle this situation.
