"Jacqueline has been an instrumental force behind the scenes since the first season of RHONJ. From day one, Jacqueline had played a key role in getting the original cast in place,” an insider tells In Touch Weekly. “Her main goal was to have everyone get along and get back to what fans had originally been attracted to in the beginning.”
However, producers were concerned there wasn’t enough drama for this season until THAT trip to Vermont, when Jacqueline and new cast membere Robyn Levy got into an explosive confrontation that resulted the two to be sent home early by Bravo lawyers.
“Jacqueline felt she had no other choice but to leave because all of her work to keep the ladies from fighting had been for nothing," the source continues. “For Jacqueline to be portrayed as the villain before the season even airs just isn't fair to her or the show. Jacqueline is prohibited by her Bravo contract from defending herself in attacks she is getting on social media."
At this point, Jacqueline is not on speaking terms with fellow RHONJ star Teresa Giudice. In Touch previously reported she wanted to provoke Teresa into an altercation on camera, which could have landed her back in jail. Teresa and her sister-in-law Melissa Gorga also had no problem confronting her over the drama she created.
“They have a very, very long and complicated history. You are talking about two women that are very much alike; outspoken, say things in the heat of the moment and regret it later, and are committed to their families,” the source concludes. “Will they make-up? Only time will tell!"
Jacqueline allegedly caused complications with production when she refused to show up to film the season finale at Melissa’s fashion show. Later, producers arranged a final sitdown between Laurita, Giudice and Gorga to be part of the finale, however it was reported that Laurita walked off after being confronted by Teresa and Melissa.
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