S06.E11: Gators And Haters

[Muffyn]

Jinjer, if Jacqueline has a thread, "bottomless pit of neediness" should be the subtitle.  

 

 

I have to agree, I am as sick of seeing BLK water as I am seeing the product placement of Teresa's swill, her "desserts", that she does NOT bake, the Italian food line, that are not from her recipes, and her cookbooks, that use someone else's recipes in every scene Teresa/Joe are in. The show is nothing but product placement/advertisement for whatever they are pushing that season. LOL

I particularly enjoyed Teresa saying "I brought my tiramisu" when it was in what looked to be a supermarket bakery type container.  She slaved all day to make that.  

Edited September 29, 2014 by Muffyn

[demarti]

Can't stand Jac and I think Chris is shady, however, it broke my heart watching Chris in that scene with Nicolas and Jac. He looked like he was going to break down any moment watching his son struggling and being so frustrated. Just from my own observation I don't think Nic has improved much and it looked as though Chris was thinking the same. It must be exhausting working with him. That poor child. 

 

I also liked the family dinner scenes. I am Italian from NY and we had family dinners where all the cousins sat at the "kids" table and the adults at the big table. Fun memories. I also go insane when I see the food at those dinner tables. Beyond delicious looking. . 

 

Now down to funny Florida moments:  Dina sitting on the sofa with a box of pastries on her lap picking at it with her fingers while everybody around her was yelling and fighting! 

 

The outfits those twins wear. Airboat riding with heels and the shortest shorts. Redic! I live in Florida and NOBODY dresses like that here unless you are 21 and going to the club. 

 

JoGo so quiet. He and Melissa sitting on the sofa looking so shocked at the yelling and craziness going on around them, just like little virgins, those two.  I swear someone is putting tranquilizers in Joe's drinks. Those two must have had a serious meeting before this season started shooting to decide how they wanted to portray themselves this time around. It's working, too, because I actually don't hate them anymore. Napolean Jim has taken their place.

 

I would really like to know if Bobby does have a condo to bang the ladies on the regular. If he wants to do that fine, but he needs to stop playing games with light haired twin and come clean with his intentions. 

 

Dina, those cute little gator babies can grow up to be up to 12 ft long and will eat your puppies and kittens and even you if desperate enough for a snack. It happens all the time here. Idiots. 

[happykitteh]

 

I'm pleased that Theresa is opposed to getting back together with Jacqueline.  Jac was/is a total snake.  She just wants the gossip per usual.  If the Giudices weren't in the press for all of these major legal issues, Jacqueline would still be ignoring them while talking about them incessantly behind their backs.  I hate two-faced bitches like her.

 

Agreed. I would never, ever trust or be friends with a former friend who blabbed things I told her in confidence, esp very personal things. Jac is like a grade school little bitch - as soon as she gets pissed she blabs her fat mouth about things told on confidence in order to hurt. I cannot stand this woman. I hate her more than any other housewife including Caro the sanctimonious shrew and Teresa the felon. She is always looking to play the victim. She did it with her daughter and now she is making Nic's struggles all about her. Yes, I get that it's traumatizing to have a special needs child but stop making it all about YOU. She needs to be the center of attention all the time, have a pity party thrown in her honor every day. I agree with the other posters who say it's shameful how she's attemping to blame their financial problems on Nic's need for care. They were in trouble long before his diagnosis - and why is Jac spending money on a tummy tuck, neck lift, face lift, fillers, botox when they have medical bills for Nic she claims they are struggling to meet? She said on WWHL she wants to have another breast reduction, claiming that after the two she's already had they keep "growing back". Maybe if she stopped shoveling Kathy's canolli's in her mouth they wouldn't "grow back". She's not regrowing breast tissue, she's gaining weight and that's making her breasts bigger.  Don't think that will be covered by her medical insurance.

 

 

I don't know why Jacqueline is any more at fault for Nicholas being filmed than any of the other ladies with minor children.

 

The problem I have with Jac - and Teresa this season for that matter - is they are exploiting their kids to garner sympathy for themselves. Teresa is using Gia and her tears to try and keep her theiving ass out of jail. Jac is using Nic to make her the object of sympathy and to have a stroryline. When Kathy and Melissa (not a fan of either) show their kids they don't do it in a manipulative way to gain something for themselves other than the audience saying, "Aww...Look how cute they are!"

 

 

Jinjer, if Jacqueline has a thread, "bottomless pit of neediness" should be the subtitle.

 

Powers that be PLEASE, PLEASE make this happen!

Edited September 29, 2014 by happykitteh

[becauseIsaidso]

Tried to quote  a post, but couldn't figure it out....anyhow....I do recall one episode, at least one season ago,  that included a bit about Nicholas speaking 'spontaneously'.  He wanted, I believe, his iPod/iPad (not sure which it was)....but all he could say was "iPod' in a very demanding toddler-ish tone.  Jaq kept on insisting he say the whole (I want my iPod/iPad) thing, but he just couldn't and, IIRC, dissolved into tears and tantrum,.   But, Nick's repeated demand for "iPod/iPad", at least in my book, counts as  spontaneous' speech because he made it very clear that he wanted a particular thing rather than only expressing his dissatisfaction with his current state (i.e., hot, cold, tired, mad, angry, sad, etc.). It was also explained at some point later that Jaq's insistence that Nick ask properly for is iPod/iPad was a part of his therapy, though it DID come across as rather cruel on her part.

[motorcitymom65]

Has Jac blabbed more of Teresa's secrets than Teresa did of Jac's? Seems like Teresa blabbed first the way I remember it. Teresa might have been pissed at Jac for trying to gain insights into her legal issues, but wasn't Teresa telling the tabloids all about them for a fee? Teresa was just pissed because the tabloids were not going to be paying $6K a story if she was giving the information for free on her Reality Show.

It appears to me that Bravo wanted Jac back. Their whole premise of firing half the cast and bringing on all these new gals was an epic fail and they are trying to savage the season. What is Jac supposed to do? In one scene where she had the Music Teacher in the home giving Nick his lessons she was criticized because why wasn't she spending time with him? Folks would go bat shit crazy if Jac was shown going out to lunch and shopping. What did Bravo think she would be showing in her scenes?

IMO all of these women are looking for a bit of sympathy, or for people to "like" them more when they are with their kids. Folks just tend to like people more when they see them being a parent. That is why folks like Brandi and Tamra want to be allowed to film with their kids. It shows a different side of them and has the potential to make them more appealing.

[jumper sage]

If they only show Nick during his "good" moments, I guarantee you that many will again question his diagnosis

I disagree, there is no way to question his diagnosis. 

 

I thought the kids were calling each other Shemp.  Like the 3 stooges.

 

God Jimmy is a dick.  He is a bitch.

[Rahul]

I would really like to know if Bobby does have a condo to bang the ladies on the regular. If he wants to do that fine, but he needs to stop playing games with light haired twin and come clean with his intentions. 

 

I don't think Bobby is playing games with Nicole. I read elsewhere they made a very clear cut agreement in which Bobby would appear as her boyfriend in exchange for screen time. Whether or not that agreement includes sexual favors is beyond me. What annoys him is Nicole's incessant talk of long term committment and the prospect of marriage when she knows full well their relationship is a fabrication for the show.

[Higgins]

The one I really feel for is Nicholas. In my opinion, his parents are not really exposing his many issues, but exploiting them. Shouldn't their sessions be private moments, not for millions of viewers?

It bothers me that every time they show Nicholas they are trying to get him to perform in some way.

[demarti]

I don't think Bobby is playing games with Nicole. I read elsewhere they made a very clear cut agreement in which Bobby would appear as her boyfriend in exchange for screen time. Whether or not that agreement includes sexual favors is beyond me. What annoys him is Nicole's incessant talk of long term committment and the prospect of marriage when she knows full well their relationship is a fabrication for the show.

So that entire Valentines dinner with the twins parents and Bobby and Nicole going on and on about how they became a couple and what he loves about her and what his intentions are (because the parents just have to know, like Nicole is still 16)  was just a bunch of lies for the camera?  I'm devastated I tell you, just devastated. 

[motorcitymom65]

So that entire Valentines dinner with the twins parents and Bobby and Nicole going on and on about how they became a couple and what he loves about her and what his intentions are (because the parents just have to know, like Nicole is still 16)  was just a bunch of lies for the camera?  I'm devastated I tell you, just devastated.

The way I have heard this story (I admit it is only from things that Jack Ass Jim has said in interviews and in his tweets) is that Bobby wanted to be on the show and he basically started courting Nichole once she had been cast. I didn't get the impression that Nicole was aware of this, but I could be wrong about that.

[LotusFlower]

I keep going back and forth on the Jaqueline and Nic/autism thing. I see pros and cons for each side. But then I think of Heather on RHONY, whose young son has a number of medical issues, including a kidney transplant in his past. Heather has stated, similar to Jaq, that she went on the show in part to use it as a platform for organ donation. One of her blog posts was devoted entirely to this cause, including an ocean of information and numerous links on the subject. She is shown as a strong mother, as well as a strong and informative advocate for her son's issues.

That's the difference. I don't think Jaqueline (and Chris) are positive role models for autism awareness. The take-away is almost always a woe-is-me scenerio of Jaq crying and bemoaning the difficulties and struggles involved. That's why the scenes with Nic feel so exploitive, in contrast to the scenes in NY of Heather (either with her son, or alone). Heather had a plan - this subject is important to me, and this is how I'm going to promote it. Jaqueline didn't. Or she did, but she's simply not strong enough to carry the message effectively. I don't fault her for this - not everyone is strong like Heather (holla!). But at this point, she should have figured this out and done the right thing for Nic and autism awareness. Otherwise, she's doing the cause a disservice.

[SFoster21]

It bothers me that every time they show Nicholas they are trying to get him to perform in some way.

Who knows for certain what is taped as opposed to what is shown? Jac has no control over what the producers choose to show.

Edited September 29, 2014 by SFoster21

[Muffyn]

It appears to me that Bravo wanted Jac back. Their whole premise of firing half the cast and bringing on all these new gals was an epic fail and they are trying to savage the season. What is Jac supposed to do? In one scene where she had the Music Teacher in the home giving Nick his lessons she was criticized because why wasn't she spending time with him? Folks would go bat shit crazy if Jac was shown going out to lunch and shopping. What did Bravo think she would be showing in her scenes?

I would have no problem with Jac being shown doing something other than being with Nick.  The music therapy threw me because I am not on the spectrum, yet, when the therapist suddenly sang loudly right in Nick's face, if I were him, I would have jumped out of my skin.  It certainly made sense to me that Nick would spend that time with his therapist and Jac and Chris would not need to be in the middle of it.  I reacted similarly when Jac kept putting her hand and much of her arm over Nick's.  Of course, that's my reaction for myself.  I can accept this is okay within his therapy.  

 

Then again, I would be happiest if we did not see Jac's Easter Island face at all, whether she's with her son, hanging with Ashley/lee/leigh, or blowing Chris (assuming her mouth can still open enough for that). I remember her big crocodile tears as she left Nick to go get more plastic surgery. She's lucky he can recognize her with all of her changes.  

 

I understand the scenes with Jac and Kathy were filmed late and spliced into the season.  It just leaves a mess.  Not a mess on the level of the rare spottings of Danielle on RHOC, but a disjointed mess nonetheless.  The lack of interaction with the "housewives" leaves production with limited choices of what to show.  Unfortunately those choices are annoying.  

[Higgins]

Who knows for certain what is taped as opposed to what is shown? Jac has no control over what the producers choose to show.

Possibly.....but it still bothers me.

[CaughtOnTape]

That's the difference. I don't think Jaqueline (and Chris) are positive role models for autism awareness. The take-away is almost always a woe-is-me scenerio of Jaq crying and bemoaning the difficulties and struggles involved. 

So what would be better?  If she walked around with her head held high and no emotions?  Dodging questions and insisting everything is ok?

Because we have someone doing that.....her name is Teresa.  And she comes off as in denial and delusional.

It seems Jac has a plan, she has a therapist working with him and as we've seen takes on at least some role in helping him herself.   I'm not saying she's some paragon of virtue concerning her son, but I certainly don't spite her the tears she cries about her son.  And they don't come off as "PLEASE GIVE ME SYMPATHY!!!" to me.

 

Damned if you do, damned if you don't on this show.

[zoeysmom]

Jacqueline has been pretty verbal about this being about her scenes on the RHONJ being about her journey with a child with autism.  Similar to Alexis in Miami, these women who one day are enjoying happy healthy children and then they are dealing with a recovery process with the child.  Jacqueline and Alexis come off as strong women who would do just about anything to recover their children.  What they have shown me is it does take a team and the parents have to be taught as well how to work with their children.  I guess that is the story Jacqueline is trying to tell.

 

I agree Teresa comes off as delusional and in denial.  Even Jacqueline's comments regarding Teresa's level of support when she and Jacqueline were friends was telling.  If it were up to the producers I am quite certain they would rather have Teresa and Jacqueline have a heart to heart with real emotions about Teresa's legal woes than Teresa and Jacqueline reading texts between the two of them.  Teresa because of her stubbornness missed a great opportunity to have a nice evening filmed with Joe and the Lauritas.  What better way to catch up on Nicholas progress than a conversation between friends albeit estranged friends.

 

 

So what would be better?  If she walked around with her head held high and no emotions?  Dodging questions and insisting everything is ok?

Because we have someone doing that.....her name is Teresa.  And she comes off as in denial and delusional.

It seems Jac has a plan, she has a therapist working with him and as we've seen takes on at least some role in helping him herself.   I'm not saying she's some paragon of virtue concerning her son, but I certainly don't spite her the tears she cries about her son.  And they don't come off as "PLEASE GIVE ME SYMPATHY!!!" to me.

 

Damned if you do, damned if you don't on this show.

[motorcitymom65]

I keep going back and forth on the Jaqueline and Nic/autism thing. I see pros and cons for each side. But then I think of Heather on RHONY, whose young son has a number of medical issues, including a kidney transplant in his past. Heather has stated, similar to Jaq, that she went on the show in part to use it as a platform for organ donation. One of her blog posts was devoted entirely to this cause, including an ocean of information and numerous links on the subject. She is shown as a strong mother, as well as a strong and informative advocate for her son's issues.

That's the difference. I don't think Jaqueline (and Chris) are positive role models for autism awareness. The take-away is almost always a woe-is-me scenerio of Jaq crying and bemoaning the difficulties and struggles involved. That's why the scenes with Nic feel so exploitive, in contrast to the scenes in NY of Heather (either with her son, or alone). Heather had a plan - this subject is important to me, and this is how I'm going to promote it. Jaqueline didn't. Or she did, but she's simply not strong enough to carry the message effectively. I don't fault her for this - not everyone is strong like Heather (holla!). But at this point, she should have figured this out and done the right thing for Nic and autism awareness. Otherwise, she's doing the cause a disservice.

Great comparison between Heather and Jac. One thing for sure, Jac is no Heather.

I think part of the issue is that we know Jac so well. Folks have strong reactions to her in general. We saw her cry and wring her hands for years over issues with Ashley/Ashlee, and later with Teresa. She seems unable to cope in many circumstances, and just so frail. I am not sure if she was introduced today as a new HW, that some folks might feel differently about her if they didn't know her backstory. As it is, we do and judgements are probably made based on that.

For me, I never had any strong feelings for Jac one way or the other. I probably fast-forwarded through more of her scenes than any other. I didn't dislike her and I didn't like her - to me she was just not very interesting. Chris on the other hand, I adore. I would imagine that most folks that think she is exploiting Nick probably don't like her, and folks that think what she is doing with Nick is OK, probably like her for the most part. It was actually interesting on the NY blogs, as it came down the same way. Folks that tended to like Heather had no problem with her showing her son at doctor appointments or talking about his issues. Folks that didn't like her thought she was exploiting him to look sympathetic and invading his privacy in some instances. I do think that to an extent the gals cannot win on this one.

[LotusFlower]

So what would be better?  If she walked around with her head held high and no emotions?  Dodging questions and insisting everything is ok?

Because we have someone doing that.....her name is Teresa.  And she comes off as in denial and delusional.

It seems Jac has a plan, she has a therapist working with him and as we've seen takes on at least some role in helping him herself.   I'm not saying she's some paragon of virtue concerning her son, but I certainly don't spite her the tears she cries about her son.  And they don't come off as "PLEASE GIVE ME SYMPATHY!!!" to me.

 

Damned if you do, damned if you don't on this show.

I wasn't talking about her real-life plan for Nick, I was referring to her plan, or lack thereof, to promote autism awareness on TV. And the opposite of crying jags and a woe-is-me attitude isn't necessarily a Teresa-like denial. There's a lot in-between. Heather on RHONY talked candidly and emotionally about how hard it was for her that she couldn't "fix" her son's problems (she's a fixer in every other aspect of her life), and yet the scenes never felt exploitive.

Not everyone is cut out for this - and by this I mean strong advocacy for a cause. By most accounts, Jacqueline has had a hard time with Nick's autism since day one of his diagnosis. Again, I'm not criticizing her for this. I don't have an autistic child - who am I to judge? I'm sure it's incredibly difficult, and my heart goes out to her. But I am, however, criticizing her decision to be a public spokesperson for autism awareness when she's just not up to the task. If she can't talk about it without crying, imo, she needs to realize she's hurting the cause, not helping. Because all I'm learning from these scenes is that she is having a hard time, and nothing about autism.

[LotusFlower]

For me, I never had any strong feelings for Jac one way or the other. I probably fast-forwarded through more of her scenes than any other. I didn't dislike her and I didn't like her - to me she was just not very interesting. Chris on the other hand, I adore. I would imagine that most folks that think she is exploiting Nick probably don't like her, and folks that think what she is doing with Nick is OK, probably like her for the most part. It was actually interesting on the NY blogs, as it came down the same way. Folks that tended to like Heather had no problem with her showing her son at doctor appointments or talking about his issues. Folks that didn't like her thought she was exploiting him to look sympathetic and invading his privacy in some instances. I do think that to an extent the gals cannot win on this one.

Good point, and it makes sense, because, like you, I've always been neutral on Jacqueline (and entirely non-neutral re: Heather. Holla!) Maybe that's why I tried to take an objective view on her scenes with Nick. At first the scenes didn't bother me, and I tried to learn something about autism (this is the Learning Channel, right?). But they have felt exponentially exploitive, and the latest - with Ashley/Ashlee wiping away Jac's tears in her TH - just no.

I also get what you mean about the gals not really able to win on this - they're going to be praised by their fans and criticized by their detractors. But that's the same with everything they do on the show. And I don't think Heather is losing any sleep over negative comments. I think she's secure in her decision and how she presented the issue. I doubt the same is true for Jacqueline. She's way too insecure.

Edited September 30, 2014 by LotusFlower

[gretchenfetchen]

 

I have no problem with the cameras showing Nicholas. What I do have a problem with is Jaq blubbering in every scene. Yes, an autism diagnosis is devastating. But her entire persona seems to be constantly teetering at the edge of a breakdown.

 I think you hit the nail right on the head there. I believe she is. When the diagnosis is relatively new , it's so hard. You are just so afraid and don't know if your child will ever talk or what. It's really hard guys to know that this child's life will be so very very different from everything you have known. For the longest time whenever we would take our son out to a restaurant or to the movies and he would behave strangely people would stare at me like I was a bad Mother for not making my son behave. If they didn't know he was autistic they just thought he was badly behaved because I spoiled him. I would stare right back and dare them to say one word to me. I had so much anger inside and was ready to take it out on them! Seriously I would glare at them almost wanting them to say something so I go off on someone, get all that frustration and anger out.  For many years we didn't take him out much. You stay at home and are isolated. I just can't criticize Jac's handling of Nic's specialness. I cried for years at night in bed. My son was like Nic not very verbal. Just a few words. He talks plenty now though. Ha! He still struggles with his Asperger's. I think Jac is just trying to figure it out. I really hope she befriends other Moms with special kiddos. No one understands what you are going thru like someone who is going or has gone thru the same thing.She really needs to be reaching out and making connections with her community. The relationships I have made with other autism moms are PRICELESS.  Completely not understanding Dina not being there for her nephew. She's a phoney. She should be ashamed of herself.

[Maharincess]

Where is Howard when you need her lol. Please tell me what 'shim' means. Is it a character or something? Not meaning to offend, I really have never heard that word before.

NOOOOOOOOO please, I'm begging you, don't mention that name again! Its kind of like the old Bloody Mary thing, if you say the name, it will appear. Please....no.

Edited October 2, 2014 by Maharincess

[Miss February]

One more petty point - I do not for one second believe that Rosie had any kind of real romantic relationship with the woman they showed earlier in the season who she now supposedly broke up with.  That all seemed to be for the show.  It's not that I don't wish Rosie the best in finding someone.  Although while we are seeing nice Rosie now, I have not forgotten the nutbag screeching at the reunion about how she was going to kill Theresa for speaking about her father.  That's a level of crazy I wouldn't want anyone I know to get too close to.  And I certainly wouldn't want to be around her if she was drunk and something bad/uncomfortable/controversial came up.  She's a funny drunk with Joe Gi, but when she's angry she is out of control.  Hopefully after seeing herself on TV she's working on that.

 

Yeah, unhinged Rosie is a frightening, frightening thing.  Last night Kathy said that what Rosie needs is just a little more self worth, and that she's almost there.  I think Rosie is self-centered and pretty full of herself already.  

[motorcitymom65]

I think you hit the nail right on the head there. I believe she is. When the diagnosis is relatively new , it's so hard. You are just so afraid and don't know if your child will ever talk or what. It's really hard guys to know that this child's life will be so very very different from everything you have known. For the longest time whenever we would take our son out to a restaurant or to the movies and he would behave strangely people would stare at me like I was a bad Mother for not making my son behave. If they didn't know he was autistic they just thought he was badly behaved because I spoiled him. I would stare right back and dare them to say one word to me. I had so much anger inside and was ready to take it out on them! Seriously I would glare at them almost wanting them to say something so I go off on someone, get all that frustration and anger out.  For many years we didn't take him out much. You stay at home and are isolated. I just can't criticize Jac's handling of Nic's specialness. I cried for years at night in bed. My son was like Nic not very verbal. Just a few words. He talks plenty now though. Ha! He still struggles with his Asperger's. I think Jac is just trying to figure it out. I really hope she befriends other Moms with special kiddos. No one understands what you are going thru like someone who is going or has gone thru the same thing.She really needs to be reaching out and making connections with her community. The relationships I have made with other autism moms are PRICELESS.  Completely not understanding Dina not being there for her nephew. She's a phoney. She should be ashamed of herself.

What a great story. I am so glad to hear that you have a good support system. Sounds like that is key in this situation.

I am embarrassed to admit I knew nothing about Autism before I watched Jac and Nick - nothing. I have a huge family, with tons of nieces and nephews, lots of friends, etc., but no one with Autism. It was just a word to me for the most part, even with all of the information that exists now. I agree that I have learned little from Jac, and that she may not be the best spokesperson, but I have learned a ton from these forums. First on TWoP, and now on this forum. I have spent more time trying to learn about something that I was so ignorant about. I guess at the end of the day, regardless of whether or not Jac is doing a good job in relating to the audience, her situation is making people talk about it and become aware, which can only be a good thing in the end.

[jinjer]

I follow her on Twitter and Jac is out all the time at Autism functions - fundraising, awareness raising, all sorts of things.  She has gotten very involved.

 

I think her coming back onto the show was more of the producers trying to get her to stick it to Teresa and get some action going.

 

I agree Teresa comes off as delusional and in denial.  Even Jacqueline's comments regarding Teresa's level of support when she and Jacqueline were friends was telling.

That is one thing.  The other is "Teresa just said, 'Thanks for thinking of us, kisses.' in response to my long winded text." Whine whine.  I think Jac was brought back on to tell us Teresa is a felon (as if we don't know) and to try to get Teresa out of the denial coma over in Chateau Juicy and into some type of fight.  But Teresa didn't bite.

 

ETA - I think Richie Wakile got a big fat check for bringing up the topic of Joe and Teresa pleading guilty at the dinner table.

Edited September 30, 2014 by jinjer

[LotusFlower]

I guess at the end of the day, regardless of whether or not Jac is doing a good job in relating to the audience, her situation is making people talk about it and become aware, which can only be a good thing in the end.

But can't she be doing a disservice to the cause if she's delivering an incorrect message? Also, I agree that provoking discussion is always a good thing, but so many more people watch tv than actively participate in online forums. I think her message on TV is the most important issue here, and why every HW or reality tv cast member should weigh the pros and cons of doing something like this. Will showing my child on TV help or hurt the cause?

[WireWrap]

I disagree, there is no way to question his diagnosis. 

 

I thought the kids were calling each other Shemp.  Like the 3 stooges.

 

God Jimmy is a dick.  He is a bitch.

Many viewers DID question Nick's autism diagnosis last season. 

I keep going back and forth on the Jaqueline and Nic/autism thing. I see pros and cons for each side. But then I think of Heather on RHONY, whose young son has a number of medical issues, including a kidney transplant in his past. Heather has stated, similar to Jaq, that she went on the show in part to use it as a platform for organ donation. One of her blog posts was devoted entirely to this cause, including an ocean of information and numerous links on the subject. She is shown as a strong mother, as well as a strong and informative advocate for her son's issues.

That's the difference. I don't think Jaqueline (and Chris) are positive role models for autism awareness. The take-away is almost always a woe-is-me scenerio of Jaq crying and bemoaning the difficulties and struggles involved. That's why the scenes with Nic feel so exploitive, in contrast to the scenes in NY of Heather (either with her son, or alone). Heather had a plan - this subject is important to me, and this is how I'm going to promote it. Jaqueline didn't. Or she did, but she's simply not strong enough to carry the message effectively. I don't fault her for this - not everyone is strong like Heather (holla!). But at this point, she should have figured this out and done the right thing for Nic and autism awareness. Otherwise, she's doing the cause a disservice.

 

 

I do NOT think Jac is emotionally strong and I don't think she ever will be but that said, I think there are many Mom's out there that cry, a LOT, without anyone seeing/knowing, except maybe their spouses, even Heather (NY) cried about Jax and his struggles. I am sure that even the strongest parent cries behind closed doors, more than we will ever know, most do not have cameras following them around recording their every move for a TV show. 

[jinjer]

I think the message she is sending is that this is too overwhelming - and that is a disservice bc if she can't handle it with the resources she had, then how can the rest of us? And it is really hard and really overwhelming at times, but it is time for Jac to get over herself. Jac has a big support system, bigger than a lot of people have.  And she has had a lot of resources that a lot of people don't have.  Talk about Dina giving help?  She also has that sour puss Caroline (with nothing to do all day except wipe ham off her counters) who I am sure would love to come over and dispense advice and give relief.  And she has a very involved husband. And that hat of a daughter who is usually jobless. 

 

Jac is much better and encouraging on Twitter - it isn't a pity party there, and that is the tac she should be taking on this show. I guess that is why I see the disconnect between her behavior on the show where she is this weepy, needy mess and her behavior on twitter where she is upbeat and positive all day.  Spend a little time giving inspiration and maybe talking about how research and donations are needed.  BLK is NOT curing autism.  

 

Why she wants to portray herself as this needy rag is bewildering.  It's either that or cute, spunky, sex-kitten.  But she doesn't get that the Easter Island look isn't on the Victoria Secret mailing list.

Edited September 30, 2014 by jinjer

[motorcitymom65]

But can't she be doing a disservice to the cause if she's delivering an incorrect message? Also, I agree that provoking discussion is always a good thing, but so many more people watch tv than actively participate in online forums. I think her message on TV is the most important issue here, and why every HW or reality tv cast member should weigh the pros and cons of doing something like this. Will showing my child on TV help or hurt the cause?

You are so right, but you are smart and have insight. I don't think that the kind of person that goes on this kind of show has much of that. If they gave any thought to their kids at all (IMO) they wouldn't be on a reality show in the first place.

I continue to cringe the most with regard to Gia. She is old enough to understand what is going on and must be living with real fear every single day. I cannot imagine the ways in which her world has been rocked. Because we know how hard Teresa has tried to stop people from knowing "her business" over the years, I would assume orders were issued to the girls (maybe only Gia would be old enough) to not talk about their private issues with friends, teachers, etc. Now she is being expected to talk about their plight on camera and having her very real fears played out for the whole world to see. She looked so scared and at the same time numb while looking at houses with Teresa. She is old enough to understand what is going on, and for that, Teresa is the most horrible mom in the world for allowing her fear and pain to be broadcast into our homes.

Edited September 30, 2014 by motorcitymom65

[CaughtOnTape]

But can't she be doing a disservice to the cause if she's delivering an incorrect message? Also, I agree that provoking discussion is always a good thing, but so many more people watch tv than actively participate in online forums. I think her message on TV is the most important issue here, and why every HW or reality tv cast member should weigh the pros and cons of doing something like this. Will showing my child on TV help or hurt the cause?

 

In the case of autism....and how much misinformation there is that is still floating around about it, I think ANYONE who's getting on TV and showing it as well as talking about it is only helping the cause.

I brought up Kelli Stapleton before and I'll do it again.  Look at her blog once and how many times she had to deal with assholes who didn't want to deal with her daughter.  And these were people are IN the field of helping children with special needs.  If there's that much misinformation and blatant disrespect from people who are trained to deal with it, imagine what she deals with from people who have no idea.

 

And I don't have a problem with Jac crying a lot.  I don't think it's showing a weakness, I think it's showing a strength.  To cry like that in front of millions of people who want to do nothing but judge and point a finger?  

 

And to whomever said those who defend her like her....wrong.

I don't have feelings one way or the other about Jac.  Didn't hate her or love her.  She never did anything on the show that I considered offensive to my sensibilities so she was pretty much a non-entity for me.  However, I cannot imagine having to deal with what she's dealing with.  And being that I've had tragedy of my own that people love to judge me about without asking questions, I'm not about to judge her.

Edited September 30, 2014 by CaughtOnTape

[WireWrap]

I wasn't talking about her real-life plan for Nick, I was referring to her plan, or lack thereof, to promote autism awareness on TV. And the opposite of crying jags and a woe-is-me attitude isn't necessarily a Teresa-like denial. There's a lot in-between. Heather on RHONY talked candidly and emotionally about how hard it was for her that she couldn't "fix" her son's problems (she's a fixer in every other aspect of her life), and yet the scenes never felt exploitive.

Not everyone is cut out for this - and by this I mean strong advocacy for a cause. By most accounts, Jacqueline has had a hard time with Nick's autism since day one of his diagnosis. Again, I'm not criticizing her for this. I don't have an autistic child - who am I to judge? I'm sure it's incredibly difficult, and my heart goes out to her. But I am, however, criticizing her decision to be a public spokesperson for autism awareness when she's just not up to the task. If she can't talk about it without crying, imo, she needs to realize she's hurting the cause, not helping. Because all I'm learning from these scenes is that she is having a hard time, and nothing about autism.

 

I have never gotten the impression that Jac was/is trying to be a "spokesperson" for Autism Awareness. Yes, she does share info about autism on twitter and she participates in many functions held for autism but I do not ever remember her saying that she was a "spokesperson" for anything, let alone autism. She is a parent, new to the disease/condition, that is desperately looking for answers and allowing us to see her personal struggles with it, nothing more IMO.

[happykitteh]

 

Teresa might have been pissed at Jac for trying to gain insights into her legal issues, but wasn't Teresa telling the tabloids all about them for a fee? Teresa was just pissed because the tabloids were not going to be paying $6K a story if she was giving the information for free on her Reality Show.

 

If someone is a true friend who really cares about you rather than someone just looking for hot gossip (or more camera time on a reality show)  then when your friend lets you know repeatedly they do not want to talk about a certain issue you STFU. Personally, if I had the opportunity to pocket $6K by keeping my mouth shut and not talking about my issues with a friend until the tabloid check cleared then hell yeah I'd keep my business to myself. And I'd understand if a  friend  did the same to me. Jac wasn't asking Teresa about her issues because she cared she was looking for to stir shit and out Tre on camera.

[WireWrap]

I think the message she is sending is that this is too overwhelming - and that is a disservice bc if she can't handle it with the resources she had, then how can the rest of us? And it is really hard and really overwhelming at times, but it is time for Jac to get over herself. Jac has a big support system, bigger than a lot of people have.  And she has had a lot of resources that a lot of people don't have.  Talk about Dina giving help?  She also has that sour puss Caroline (with nothing to do all day except wipe ham off her counters) who I am sure would love to come over and dispense advice and give relief.  And she has a very involved husband. And that hat of a daughter who is usually jobless. 

 

Jac is much better and encouraging on Twitter - it isn't a pity party there, and that is the tac she should be taking on this show. I guess that is why I see the disconnect between her behavior on the show where she is this weepy, needy mess and her behavior on twitter where she is upbeat and positive all day.  Spend a little time giving inspiration and maybe talking about how research and donations are needed.  BLK is NOT curing autism.  

 

Why she wants to portray herself as this needy rag is bewildering.  It's either that or cute, spunky, sex-kitten.  But she doesn't get that the Easter Island look isn't on the Victoria Secret mailing list.

 

 

Here is the problem, IMHO......We do NOT know how Jac acts around Nick or around people in general except for the snippets we see on the show. For all any of us know, Jac may not be crying every time she talks about Nick. We only see what Bravo wants us to see. Who knows what the producer asked her that caused her to cry on last nights show in her 1 on 1 interview. I suspect that what we have seen is NOT the real or complete picture of how Jac is concerning Nick's struggles/journey with autism. And again, I go back to, even the strongest women cry when their child is facing a life long health struggle/battle.

[happykitteh]

I loved Kathy's mom telling it like it is regarding Tre and Joe. She didn't say it in a hateful, vengeful manner even though she doesn't get along with them or Tre's dad, she was  matter of fact about the way it is.

 

I don't get the two story closet either. Sounds like a dumb idea unless they use the top floor to store out of season clothes but Richie said he was going to keep his clothes up there. Good luck with that when arthritis kicks in down the road.

 

Another reason for me to hate the new cast: They make me happy to see the Gorgas. I didn't like them in any of the previous seasons but now I'm so glad when they are on screen rather than the others. I loved Mel's yellow dress. It's something I would wear (minus the cutout in the back. Didn't like that part, made it look a tad trashy IMO) and I don't think I've ever thought that about any of the other clothes I've seen on this show. The color looked great on Mel with her figure and coloring.

[WireWrap]

How do we know what Dina did or did not do for Nicholas? I don't think that Jac is the most truthful reporter and I've only seen them attack eachother on twitter. Honest question here, I don't have a dog in this fight (I dislike all of these people and want some background noise while working).

 Dina has said herself that shed has NOT spoken to Chris and his family, Caroline, and her family since the fight started during season 2. I believe that Chris said on last years reunion that Dina has never met Nick or reached out to them or he supported Jac when she said it.

[WireWrap]

If someone is a true friend who really cares about you rather than someone just looking for hot gossip (or more camera time on a reality show)  then when your friend lets you know repeatedly they do not want to talk about a certain issue you STFU. Personally, if I had the opportunity to pocket $6K by keeping my mouth shut and not talking about my issues with a friend until the tabloid check cleared then hell yeah I'd keep my business to myself. And I'd understand if a  friend  did the same to me. Jac wasn't asking Teresa about her issues because she cared she was looking for to stir shit and out Tre on camera.

 Teresa could have talked to Jac, on or off camera, after the rag mags came out yet refused to do so.

[LotusFlower]

I think the message she is sending is that this is too overwhelming - and that is a disservice bc if she can't handle it with the resources she had, then how can the rest of us? And it is really hard and really overwhelming at times, but it is time for Jac to get over herself. Jac has a big support system, bigger than a lot of people have.  And she has had a lot of resources that a lot of people don't have.

Jac is much better and encouraging on Twitter - it isn't a pity party there, and that is the tac she should be taking on this show. I guess that is why I see the disconnect between her behavior on the show where she is this weepy, needy mess and her behavior on twitter where she is upbeat and positive all day.  Spend a little time giving inspiration and maybe talking about how research and donations are needed.  BLK is NOT curing autism.  

 

  

Great points, and I agree (esp. about the disservice to the cause), but I don't think it's fair to tell anyone to "get over it" already. Yes, she has the support system and resources that many moms with autistic children don't have, but some people are just not emotionally strong. And maybe never will be. She is who she is, and that's ok. I'm not faulting her for crying, just for crying about it non-stop on TV. Have the insight to know you're not the best public role model for this, and say no to the producer's storyline.

You are so right, but you are smart and have insight. I don't think that the kind of person that goes on this kind of show has much of that. If they gave any thought to their kids at all (IMO) they wouldn't be on a reality show in the first place.

I continue to cringe the most with regard to Gia. She is old enough to understand what is going on and must be living with real fear every single day. I cannot imagine the ways in which her world has been rocked. Because we know how hard Teresa has tried to stop people from knowing "her business" over the years, I would assume orders were issued to the girls (maybe only Gia would be old enough) to not talk about their private issues with friends, teachers, etc. Now she is being expected to talk about their plight on camera and having her very real fears played out for the whole world to see. She looked so scared and at the same time numb while looking at houses with Teresa. She is old enough to understand what is going on, and for that, Teresa is the most horrible mom in the world for allowing her fear and pain to be broadcast into our homes.

Touché to your first paragraph, holla! to your second!

[motorcitymom65]

If someone is a true friend who really cares about you rather than someone just looking for hot gossip (or more camera time on a reality show) then when your friend lets you know repeatedly they do not want to talk about a certain issue you STFU. Personally, if I had the opportunity to pocket $6K by keeping my mouth shut and not talking about my issues with a friend until the tabloid check cleared then hell yeah I'd keep my business to myself. And I'd understand if a friend did the same to me. Jac wasn't asking Teresa about her issues because she cared she was looking for to stir shit and out Tre on camera.

Yes, except you are being paid to be on a reality show and talk about your life. The only reason the tabloids are giving you checks is because of the reality show that is paying you quite handsomely to reveal your life. Forget the show, Jac and Teresa both acknowledged that they talked every day, sometimes for hours. Jac is asking her questions about the things she is reading in the tabloids and Teresa is acting like she has no idea what she is talking about. She flat out lied to Jac about the fact that she was working with the tabloids. Jac feels betrayed. What kind of a friend tells their best friend nothing about what is going on in their life, but pretty much rents their home out to the In-Touch magazine crew to shoot cover photos and do interviews? She didn't have to reveal stuff on camera, she could have just shared the same stuff with Jac that she was sharing with the rags. Teresa didn't act like she gave two shits about Jac as a friend. I am not saying that Jac is blameless. She should have just continued to look the other way and let Teresa spin whatever delusional spin she wanted. I think at some point Jac just realized what kind of a person Teresa is. She would spend all her time on the phone bitching and moaning about her perceived issues with Mel, Joey and Kathy. She admitted that she had asked for Jac to spread shit about Mel. I think Jac was just so done at that point. She lasted far longer than I would have.

I don't dislike Jac, but God, I hate defending her because I think she is basically nuts. I resent Teresa for this as much as anything.

Edited September 30, 2014 by motorcitymom65

[zoeysmom]

But can't she be doing a disservice to the cause if she's delivering an incorrect message? Also, I agree that provoking discussion is always a good thing, but so many more people watch tv than actively participate in online forums. I think her message on TV is the most important issue here, and why every HW or reality tv cast member should weigh the pros and cons of doing something like this. Will showing my child on TV help or hurt the cause?

I am thinking that showing one mother's journey with an autistic child and showing the child is not going to hurt the cause.  If someone won't support the cause because they don't like Jacqueline crying or don't like seeing Nicholas then they probably will find another reason not support the cause if Jacqueline and Nicholas are removed.  The foundation Jacqueline advocates for is Autism Speaks.  It was founded by Bob & Suzanne Wright.  Bob is the retired CEO of NBC and General Electric.  I remember watching them when they went public (it was their grandson who was diagnosed) they weren't all that composed but they were determined to raise autism awareness.

[happykitteh]

 

Teresa could have talked to Jac, on or off camera, after the rag mags came out yet refused to do so.

 

Agreed. Once Tre had the check from the tabloids she could have told Jac what she had revealed to the tabloids since it was/would be public knowledge at that point.

 

Wasn't there a conflict of interest for Tre to go to the tabloids before talking about her issues on HWNJ? Doesn't Bravo have an exclusive with all the HWs or a contact where any interiews have to be approved by Bravo before publication?

[CaughtOnTape]

I don't get why it matters how many times Jac cries on TV about it.

 

Personally I find that a really weird sticking point.

 

Because if I were her it would be full on breakdowns.  A few tears about how she's upset he's struggling is hardly something to tag her for, IMO.

[LotusFlower]

I have never gotten the impression that Jac was/is trying to be a "spokesperson" for Autism Awareness. Yes, she does share info about autism on twitter and she participates in many functions held for autism but I do not ever remember her saying that she was a "spokesperson" for anything, let alone autism. She is a parent, new to the disease/condition, that is desperately looking for answers and allowing us to see her personal struggles with it, nothing more IMO.

Once she made the decision to share Nick's diagnosis and journey on TV, she became a de facto public spokesperson for autism awareness whether she liked it or not. Again, nobody put a gun to her head. It was her decision to do this. Plus, I'm pretty sure she discussed her public role re: autism on WWHL at least once (in a responsible way).

[motorcitymom65]

Agreed. Once Tre had the check from the tabloids she could have told Jac what she had revealed to the tabloids since it was/would be public knowledge at that point.

 

Wasn't there a conflict of interest for Tre to go to the tabloids before talking about her issues on HWNJ? Doesn't Bravo have an exclusive with all the HWs or a contact where any interiews have to be approved by Bravo before publication?

It would make sense that they would have such a contract, but I don't think that they do. I remember when Brandi Glanville went on the Howard Stern show and said a lot of shit she should not have, including giving the salaries of several of the HW's. She said that she got in big trouble for that and had to have a Bravo Rep approve all of her interviews and be in attendance after that.

[happykitteh]

 

I don't get why it matters how many times Jac cries on TV about it.

 

I can't speak for other posters but for me it's not just the crying about Nic it's the crying about every damn thing. Seems like she is always crying about something on this show. She is a perpetual victim, whines all the time, is a drunk and her Twitter last season was cray cray. She is the type of weak ass whiny woman I can't stand.

[mbaywife123]

I haven't watched this show since all of the Danielle nonsense. I did tune in tonight just on lark and was astounded by Miss Jim's behavior. I'm out once again, but will continue to read this board.

[LotusFlower]

I can't speak for other posters but for me it's not just the crying about Nic it's the crying about every damn thing. Seems like she is always crying about something on this show. She is a perpetual victim, whines all the time, is a drunk and her Twitter last season was cray cray. She is the type of weak ass whiny woman I can't stand.

It's her personality. As evidenced by her never-ending plastic surgeries, she is very, very insecure.

[BucFan]

I'm not going to make any speculations about Jim's sexual orientation. But I WILL speculate he's packing a one-inch dick.

 

 

Agreed...Jim is a card carrying member of the Tiny Pillinukin club.

Little Man Jim may want to call his fellow members of the club- Dean McDermott and Miss Terry Dubrow.

[zoeysmom]

Agreed. Once Tre had the check from the tabloids she could have told Jac what she had revealed to the tabloids since it was/would be public knowledge at that point.

 

Wasn't there a conflict of interest for Tre to go to the tabloids before talking about her issues on HWNJ? Doesn't Bravo have an exclusive with all the HWs or a contact where any interiews have to be approved by Bravo before publication?

I think what Jac issue was is every morning at 8:00 am Teresa called to talk to Jac about how wonderful she was and what she had going on but never mentioned the legal troubles.  IIRC Teresa filed for BK in October of 2009, it didn't hit the tabloids until June-at the time her good friend Dina even said she thought it wasn't true.  I believe Jacqueline and Chris knew shortly after she filed and said nothing.  http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20395302,00.html

 

The HWs can "sell" certain stories but they cannot sell what transpires on the show prior to it being shown unless it involves something that becomes public record, BK, divorce, arrest.  In the tabloid case Teresa's attorneys actually gave a statement that Teresa could be looking at prison because of the BK fraud.  That is why the producers work so hard to get the HWs to discuss their emotions and their family and friends feelings.  By design it is not a news show but their reactions make for entertainment.  

 

I think the bottom line with Caroline and Jacqueline and later on Melissa and Kathy was that Teresa was exploiting them all for pecuniary gain.  It is one thing to be an opportunist quite another to exploit your co-stars. 

[Midnight Cheese]

Jim is so worthless that it's hard to even care.  He's a jerk with Ziggy eyes living in a house of cards with maybe a congenital inability to tell the truth.  I mean, I just look past him, almost.  Those mini-stripper twins though - they dance on my last nerve like few HW additions.  The squeaky whore voices.  The fake cans and driveway of sternum between the cleavage in those off-brand cocktail dresses.  The unfrozen caveman lawyer foreheads.  How insane is it that the mommy affair rumor seems more and more true the more these idiots talk about it?  And of course it's, 'Don't you dare talk about my mom!'  Get some real boundaries, crack open a fucking book, say a rosary, eat a brownie - just stop TALKING about this rumor if it's that offensive and false, you fools!

 

So Ambuh is sharing Tamra's white-out eyeliner, I see.  Wise choices everywhere. 

 

I'm not inclined to cut Jacqueline any slack, because she has self-victimized and lied in substantial ways since early in the first season, and her dedication to pointless vanity is pretty fucking notable even in this crew (snerk that her breast tissue might stop 'regrowing' if she put down Kathy's pre-fabricated cannoli once in a while).  Also - I'll just go there.  She's a shitty mother.  She was shitty to Ashley and created that situation, where Ashley was basically isolated within her Jersey family.  What decent parent does that?  Not a one.  She was shitty to Gia during that 'Field Day' episode and clearly treats some children as adversaries and combatants.  I am *not* saying she would do that to Nicholas, but I'm not sorry to say that she is unstable and narcissistic and I don't think those traits disappear around Nicholas.  I don't think she's driven to show a 'real' side of autism, I think she is driven to get praise for how she deals with it.  It's of a piece with insisting she was always in the middle of conflicts when she created them - she did not create the situation, of course, it's absolutely no one's fault.  But I think the self-victimizing is a huge, huge part of Jacqueline. 

Edited September 30, 2014 by Midnight Cheese

[happykitteh]

 

I think what Jac issue was is every morning at 8:00 am Teresa called to talk to Jac about how wonderful she was and what she had going on but never mentioned the legal troubles.  IIRC Teresa filed for BK in October of 2009, it didn't hit the tabloids until June-at the time her good friend Dina even said she thought it wasn't true.

 

I wouldn't discuss my legal or financial problems with anyone either, except maybe my parents and siblings. That's between my husband and me and nobody else's business. Being on a reality show it was going to come out eventually but IMO Tre had no obligation to discuss this with Jac or Dina before it became public.

 

 

I think the bottom line with Caroline and Jacqueline and later on Melissa and Kathy was that Teresa was exploiting them all for pecuniary gain.  It is one thing to be an opportunist quite another to exploit your co-stars.

 

They all exploit each other and the same can be said for everyone on all the other HW shows. Once you're on one of these shows you can't trust anyone, even close friends and family. It becomes about the fame and fortune and loyalty goes out the window. I'm sure this is why Tre didn't confide in Jac - she didn't know if Jac would open her mouth and use it against her. She was right not to trust Jac -  look what she spilled at the reunion about Juicy cheating which Tre confided in her.

Edited September 30, 2014 by happykitteh

[motorcitymom65]

 

And to whomever said those who defend her like her....wrong.

I don't have feelings one way or the other about Jac.  Didn't hate her or love her.  She never did anything on the show that I considered offensive to my sensibilities so she was pretty much a non-entity for me.  However, I cannot imagine having to deal with what she's dealing with.  And being that I've had tragedy of my own that people love to judge me about without asking questions, I'm not about to judge her.

I didn't mean to imply that all folks that defend Jac like her, just that for the most part, folks that had strong feelings about Jac one way or the other tend to carry those feelings into how they believe she is handling this particular situation. Folks that feel like you do about Jac (and as I do as well) seem to be more divided on how we feel about it. I am fine with Nick being on because I think all of these ho's exploit their kids for small time fame. Might as well exploit them and maybe do some good in the world. Others who are on the fence about her have different feelings.