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This Is What It's Actually Like Filming The Real Housewives of New Jersey
We're spilling all the behind-the-scenes secrets from a special RHONJ episode and revealing what it's really like to film the series.
When it comes to family, sass, and squabbles, The Real Housewives of New Jersey has it all. Throughout the years, the show has introduced us to some strong women and iconic feuds. With all of the Jersey drama brewing each season, it makes you wonder, what exactly goes into filming RHONJ? Luckily, Bravo has all the answers.
Tune into an exclusive "Behind the Episode" special on Wednesday, October 30 at 10/9c to find out the juiciest behind-the-scenes tidbits from Season 7, Episode 14: "The Importance of Being Family."
Can't wait another second? Read on for a sneak peek at some of the producers' secrets!
1. Oh, How the Crew Has Changed
It takes a village to film the show. Approximately 40 crew members currently work on The Real Housewives of New Jersey. None of the original crew who started with the series in 2008 still work on it now.
2. The Filming Schedule
Each season, filming takes place over approximately 14 weeks. Production films six days a week as well. A lot of work goes into capturing each major moment in the series.
3. What Happens When the Cast is Fighting?
From one season to the next, best friends may fall out and become worst enemies... or vice versa. However, the crew knows how to handle these situations with grace. When the ladies aren't speaking to each other, it doesn't affect production. Producers say, "We are always conscious of cast sensitivities."
4. Location, Location, Location
We often see the ladies of RHONJ meeting up at restaurants, going on family outings, and attending glamorous events. But how does that work when cameras are following them around to all of these different places? Well, based on where the cast likes to go, producers clear about 20 locations a season.
5. No Cameras Allowed (Sometimes)
When production is in a bind and can't use their equipment for whatever reason (like at Joe Giudice's going away party), camera phones and small devices come to their rescue. "Home video" footage of the party was shown because production was not permitted to bring show cameras into the venue. The footage was shot by a field producer using an iPhone.
6. Kids and Production
Filming with the kids requires keeping a tight schedule, since they're legally only allowed to shoot for a limited amount of hours each day. Even though they have strict filming constraints, the incredible kids of RHONJ always deliver.
But wait, there's more! If you want to find out what other secrets are in store, like which cast member makes producers laugh the most or what it was like filming Joe's departure to prison, you'll have to watch the special! Tune in when Bravo goes behind the 14th episode of Season 7, "The Importance of Being Family," on Wednesday, October 30 at 10/9c.
And take a look at what Season 10 has to offer before it premieres on November 6 at 9/8c.
