Seasons of Real Housewives of New Jersey: A Decade of Drama

Over the past decade, the Real Housewives of New Jersey (RHONJ) has captivated audiences with its explosive drama, lavish lifestyles, and unforgettable characters. From heated confrontations to scandalous affairs, the show has provided viewers with countless moments of entertainment. Here's a look back at the highlights and lowlights of each season:

Season 1 (2009)

Premiere: May 12, 2009
Starring: Caroline Manzo, Teresa Giudice, Dina Manzo, Jacqueline Laurita, Danielle Staub

The inaugural season of RHONJ introduced viewers to the opulent lives of five wealthy women from Bergen County, New Jersey. The season revolved around the budding friendships and rivalries between the cast members, with Teresa Giudice and Danielle Staub emerging as the primary antagonists.

Season 2 (2010)

Premiere: May 3, 2010
Starring: Caroline Manzo, Teresa Giudice, Dina Manzo, Jacqueline Laurita, Danielle Staub, Kathy Wakile

Season 2 saw the addition of Kathy Wakile to the cast. The season focused on the ongoing feud between Teresa and Danielle, culminating in their infamous "hair-pulling" incident. Jacqueline Laurita also faced personal struggles, dealing with her husband's alcoholism and the estrangement of her parents.

Season 3 (2011)

Premiere: July 18, 2011
Starring: Caroline Manzo, Teresa Giudice, Jacqueline Laurita, Kathy Wakile, Melissa Gorga

Dina Manzo left the show after Season 3, and Melissa Gorga, Teresa's sister-in-law, joined the cast. The season explored the aftermath of Teresa and Danielle's altercation, as well as mounting legal issues for Teresa's husband, Joe Giudice. Melissa's arrival also stirred up tension within the group, particularly with Teresa.

Season 4 (2012)

Premiere: August 14, 2012
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Jacqueline Laurita, Kathy Wakile, Melissa Gorga, Albie Manzo

Season 4 marked the departure of Caroline Manzo, who announced she was leaving the show to focus on her family. Albie Manzo, Caroline's son, joined the cast in a supporting role. Teresa's legal troubles continued to dominate the headlines, and the season ended with her and Joe being convicted of multiple fraud charges.

Season 5 (2013)

Premiere: June 2, 2013
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Jacqueline Laurita, Kathy Wakile, Melissa Gorga, Rosie Pierri

After Teresa and Joe Giudice were sentenced to prison, Season 5 focused on the impact of their absence on the family and their friends. Jacqueline Laurita left the show after the season, and Rosie Pierri joined as a new cast member.

Season 6 (2014)

Premiere: July 7, 2014
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Kathy Wakile, Rosie Pierri, Dolores Catania

Teresa Giudice began serving her 15-month prison sentence at the start of Season 6. The season chronicled the struggles of her family and friends in coping with her absence. Dolores Catania joined the cast as a close friend of Melissa Gorga.

Season 7 (2016)

Premiere: July 10, 2016
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Dolores Catania, Siggy Flicker, Danielle Staub

Teresa Giudice was released from prison in December 2015, and Season 7 focused on her re-integration into society. Siggy Flicker and Danielle Staub returned to the cast, bringing with them their own set of dramas.

Season 8 (2017)

Premiere: October 4, 2017
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Dolores Catania, Siggy Flicker, Margaret Josephs

Margaret Josephs joined the cast in Season 8, adding a fresh perspective to the group. The season explored the dynamics between the established cast members and the newcomer, as well as the ongoing tensions within Teresa's family.

Season 9 (2018)

Premiere: November 7, 2018
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Dolores Catania, Margaret Josephs, Jennifer Aydin

Season 9 introduced Jennifer Aydin to the group. The season showcased the cast's glamorous lifestyles, but also delved into serious issues, including Teresa's ongoing legal battles and Melissa's struggles with fertility.

Season 10 (2019)

Premiere: November 6, 2019
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Dolores Catania, Margaret Josephs, Jennifer Aydin, Jackie Goldschneider

Jackie Goldschneider joined the show in Season 10, and the season focused on the cast navigating personal challenges, including divorce, illness, and family conflicts. Melissa Gorga underwent a dramatic transformation, shedding her "fan favorite" status amidst allegations of hypocrisy and alienation.

Season 11 (2021)

Premiere: February 17, 2021
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Dolores Catania, Margaret Josephs, Jennifer Aydin, Jackie Goldschneider

Season 11 was marked by the departure of Jackie Goldschneider. The season revolved around the cast's relationships, including Teresa's engagement to Luis "Louie" Ruelas, Melissa's rocky marriage, and Dolores' pursuit of love. Jennifer Aydin and Margaret Josephs continued their rivalry, while Jennifer's husband, Bill, faced accusations of infidelity.

Season 12 (2022)

Premiere: February 1, 2022
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Dolores Catania, Margaret Josephs, Jennifer Aydin, Jackie Goldschneider

Jackie Goldschneider returned to the show in Season 12, bringing with her a renewed sense of humor and willingness to engage in the drama. The season focused on Teresa's wedding to Louie and the aftermath of Melissa's explosive feud with Jackie. Jennifer Aydin and Dolores Catania also explored their careers and personal lives.

Season 13 (2023)

Premiere: July 26, 2023
Starring: Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga, Dolores Catania, Margaret Josephs, Jennifer Aydin, Danielle Staub

Season 13 promises to be as explosive as ever. With Danielle Staub returning to the cast after an eight-year absence, the drama is sure to heat up. Teresa Giudice navigates life as a newlywed, while Melissa Gorga and Jennifer Aydin continue their rivalry. Dolores Catania and Margaret Josephs provide a more lighthearted balance to the group.

A Decade of Glamour and Controversy

The Real Housewives of New Jersey has become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its mix of glamour, gossip, and drama. The show has featured everything from lavish parties to scandalous affairs, from heartwarming moments to explosive confrontations. As the show enters its 13th season, it remains one of the most popular reality TV franchises in the world.