The Real Housewives of New Jersey stars Melissa Gorga and Joe Gorga have filed a legal complaint against the borough of Franklin Lakes, alleging the town delayed the approval of a critical filming permit needed for their participation in a new Bravo series.
According to documents shared by Real Housewife Junkie on X, the Gorgas’ attorney, William J. Rush, submitted the complaint on May 21, 2025. The filing, addressed to the Honorable Darren T. DiBiasi, outlines that the couple was under contract to begin filming at their home on June 6, 2025, and that all permit materials were due by May 30.
Via Real Housewife Junkie
“Plaintiffs are alleging that Defendants are wrongfully withholding and/or delaying the issuance of a Filming Permit in the Borough of Franklin Lakes,” Rush stated. “Plaintiffs are reality television performers and are under contract to film at their residence on June 6.”
The complaint requested that the court expedite a hearing to ensure the Gorgas could meet the permit deadline. “If Plaintiffs are granted the requested relief they will have enough time to file the appropriate permit and corresponding documents with the Borough Clerk by May 30,” the filing continued.
It remains unclear whether their request was granted in time or if the delay jeopardized their role in Bravo’s highly anticipated reality crossover.
Bravo’s Wife Swap Spinoff to Feature Familiar Faces—If All Goes According to Plan
Back in May, we were the first to report that Melissa and Joe Gorga would appear in Wife Swap: The Real Housewives Edition alongside other franchise stars. The reported cast includes Real Housewives of Orange County’s Emily Simpson, Real Housewives of Potomac’s Dr. Wendy Osefo, and Real Housewives of Salt Lake City’s Angie Katsanevas.
Set to air on Bravo in the upcoming year, the new series blends the classic Wife Swap format with the glam and drama of the Real Housewives universe. Bravo promises “laugh-out-loud moments,” personal growth, and “an opportunity to see if the grass is truly greener.”
As of now, Bravo has not confirmed whether the Gorgas successfully completed filming or if the permit delay interfered with their participation.
What Else Is Coming to Bravo?
Wife Swap: The Real Housewives Edition is part of a broader expansion of Bravo’s programming. New series include The Real Housewives of Rhode Island, a return of Ladies of London, and The Valley: Persian Style (wt)—a spiritual successor to Shahs of Sunset featuring Reza Farahan, Golnesa “GG” Gharachedaghi, and Mercedes “MJ” Javid.
According to Bravo, Ladies of London will spotlight a new generation of British elites and ambitious expats, while The Valley: Persian Style brings Shahs fan favorites into a new chapter filled with drama, business, and evolving relationships.
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Good, block them! If bravo won’t you’re our only hope.