HOLLYWOOD—I totally forgot how intriguing the series “Mob Wives” on VH1 used to be. The series that followed a group of women with familial ties to the mob and their families ran for six seasons and damn it was trashy TV, but gripping as hell to watch. I’m sorry, I’m a sucker for over-the-top, fists flying, trash talking reality TV and this series delivered it all. You had our core four of Renee, Carla, Drita and Karen.
Loved each and everyone of them in their own right, but season two introduced one of my favorite reality TV stars in Angela ‘Big Ang’ Raiola. Rest in Peace Big Ang who died years ago after a battle with cancer, but she was so fantastic on TV, reality gold with one-liners, chimes and stirring the pot, but also trying to resolve issues with her pals. Big Ang was NOT about the mess and rarely did she get riled up, but if she did, you better be scared because she would rip a head off.
VH1 just happened to be running a marathon of the second season and I just found myself glued to the TV. It was perfect entertainment for me because I was battling a cold and resting on the couch was the perfect solution. I watched one episode, and I was instantly and I mean instantly hooked to watch the next episode, that soon became a domino spiral. I found myself utilizing my phone to look up classic “Mob Wives” moments during the show’s history. I watched some of the epic fights, and damn were these women going to battle.
We’re not talking what you see in reality TV nowadays where it is ‘made’ to appear like a fight unfolded, we’re seeing the actual fight, fists flying, hair being pulled, people being pummeled and glasses breaking, plates being thrown and in some situations a little bit of blood. Yeah, who can forget that double team against Drita by Karen and her cousin Ramona. Mayhem, just utter mayhem.
Yes, I know I should not indulge in seeing women pummel one another, but sometimes you need mindless entertainment and that is what “Mob Wives” used to be on the network, which has slightly shied away from the trashy television it used to be with “Flavor or Love,” “I Love New York,” “Rock of Love,” “Love and Hip Hop” franchise and so much more.
Now I did have some qualms with the series that I’m going to chat about. I HATED those little capture shots with the filming style that made it seem like someone was watching these ladies from Staten Island’s every single move. In addition, you question if these people were really intertwined with the mob would their families REALLY want them airing on the dirty laundry? I think not. I just don’t think that would be something people would be gleeful about.
Can I see all the original members back for a reboot? Absolutely, like I said the series will still not be the same without Big Ang, but I think the series could make sure her presence is not forgotten. Not to mention perhaps we can find a fresh face or two, unlike the previous ones they had in season five and six with Brittany and Marissa, sorry those ladies were miscast and should have NEVER been part of the series.
I mean Drita had beef with all of the women, Karen most notably, so could things have thawed over the past few years, one could hope. I mean she was besties with Carla for the longest until they had a feud, and then Renee wanted to strangle her by the neck as well. So, love her or hate her, Drita was great TV, and I loved watching her on the TV screen.
So, VH1 I have tossed out the idea, whether you do anything with it, that’s up to you, but there is an audience who wants more of this iconic series.
Written By Davy Jones