The season 14 premiere of The Real Housewives of New Jersey focused heavily on Teresa Giudice and the ongoing feud between her and sister-in-law Melissa Gorga. Teresa’s refusal to interact with Melissa is a central theme of the season, with other cast members taking sides in the family drama. Teresa has also sparked controversy by referring to Rachel Fuda’s husband as the “biggest drug dealer in Bergen County.”
During Jennifer Fessler’s surprise birthday party, tensions run high as verbal altercations break out between the cast members. Teresa and her husband Louie Ruelas are at the center of both arguments, showcasing the drama that ensues when these women come together. Despite the conflict, one friend of Fessler manages to have a good time despite the “bloodshed” happening around her.
Melissa Gorga and Teresa continue to have no relationship, with Melissa expressing during a confessional that she doesn’t want to address any questions about Teresa during this season. While they both attend Fessler’s birthday party, they do not acknowledge each other’s presence, revealing the extent of their strained relationship. On the other hand, Teresa’s friendship with Dolores Catania remains strong throughout the premiere.
Margaret Josephs expresses her disapproval of Teresa, stating that she considers her “dead” and does not want her name brought up in conversation. This sentiment arises from a past incident where Louie allegedly called and threatened Margaret’s son. Meanwhile, Teresa’s friendship with Jennifer Aydin seems to be on shaky ground, with tension building between the two friends.
Danielle Cabral maintains a neutral relationship with Teresa in the premiere, indicating that there is no major conflict between the two. Rachel Fuda, on the other hand, has severed ties with Teresa after allegations that Teresa’s husband hired an investigator to look into her and her husband. This leads to a heated confrontation at Fessler’s birthday party between Teresa and Rachel’s husband John.
Throughout the episode, Jackie Goldschneider also returns to the show in a more friendly role and seems to be building a closer relationship with Teresa. Jennifer Fessler, in a “friend of” role, gets involved in the drama surrounding Teresa but also expresses loyalty by refusing to talk to Teresa at the party. Overall, the season premiere sets the stage for a season filled with drama, conflict, and strained relationships among the cast members of The Real Housewives of New Jersey.
