Joe Gorga is showing his support for former brother-in-law Joe Giudice, saying he deserves the opportunity to return to the United States and reunite with his four daughters after years of separation.
During an appearance on Page Six’s Virtual Reali-Tea, the Real Housewives of New Jersey star opened up about the possibility of Joe Giudice returning to the country following his deportation and explained why he believes it would benefit the entire family, especially his niece Milania Giudice.
“They need him home. They want him home. The kids want him home,” Joe Gorga said.
“Those girls really want their dad and he deserves to come back. I mean, he was here his whole life. I mean, what had happened, is a shame. It affected everybody but he should be back with his family.”
Joe’s comments come as Teresa Giudice and her oldest daughter, Gia Giudice, continue advocating for Joe Giudice to be allowed back into the United States.
Joe Giudice, who shares daughters Gia, Gabriella, Milania and Audriana with Teresa, was deported after serving a federal prison sentence stemming from fraud charges.
Although he had lived in the United States since childhood, Joe never obtained American citizenship. Following his prison sentence, he was ultimately forced to leave the country in 2019.
Since then, his daughters have traveled internationally to spend time with him, but the family has remained separated geographically.
Gia has been particularly vocal about wanting her father back in the United States and has advocated for a presidential pardon or another form of immigration relief that would allow him to return.
Earlier this month, Gia and Teresa attended an event at the White House celebrating Italian-American heritage, where Gia said they were exploring possible options to help bring her father home.
Gia also explained that having Joe back in the United States would be healing for their family, particularly as her younger sister Milania continues navigating a difficult period in her life.
Milania, 20, recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and also struggles with depression, anxiety, PTSD and ADHD.
She has spoken openly about seeking professional treatment and working on her mental health following several difficult months, including the devastating loss of her childhood best friend, Victoria Zardoya.
During the interview, the hosts referenced Gia’s belief that having her father nearby could help Milania.
Joe Gorga immediately agreed.
“100%. It’ll help her out,” Joe said.
But he also believes Joe Giudice’s return could bring something positive to the entire family.
“Joe with the restaurant would be in there cooking. I think it would work for the entire family and I think it would be great,” Joe Gorga explained.
He then added a lighthearted comment about his former brother-in-law’s personality.
“And Joe’s funny as hell and we need him back. That would be great.”
The reference to the restaurant comes as Gia recently opened her new Italian restaurant, Il Vero, in Westwood, New Jersey.
Joe Giudice has long shared his passion for Italian food and cooking, and Joe Gorga’s comments suggest he could envision his former brother-in-law becoming involved in the family’s latest business venture if he were able to return.
The support is especially meaningful considering Joe Gorga and Joe Giudice’s complicated relationship over the years.