What would you say is the most challenging thing about growing up in the public eye? On the contrary, what would you say is the most positive thing about growing up in the public eye?
It can be really challenging to have your life played out on TV because viewers tend to feel like they know everything about you and sometimes feel entitled to formulate opinions based on the show. Unfortunately, some people can be very cruel with their opinions and comments. It’s sad, because for so many young women on TV, it can create a sort of pressure to meet unrealistic standards. I’m really lucky to have my parents because they instilled values in me which give me a strong sense of self. I choose to focus and appreciate the many positives instead of the negatives. One of the most positive things to come from this platform is all of the amazing experiences and opportunities I’ve been granted. I’m really grateful to Bravo and to all of the fans that have supported us for so long. It’s so special to have so many fans that truly love my family and I, it’s really a beautiful feeling.
With TikTok being so popular, there are tons of accounts dedicated to sharing old clips from ‘RHONJ,’ specifically from when you and your sisters were little. How does it feel to watch those?
It’s so nostalgic. I think that’s also one of the best things about the show because it’s like a bunch of home videos that we will always have. It means so much to have videos from when my grandparents were alive. Having memories with my Nonno and Nonna on film is just priceless.
Of course, we can’t mention TikTok without bringing up the viral ‘Waking Up in the Morning’ audio — it’s a classic! What was it like to watch so many people, including major celebrities, respond to you singing?
It was shocking! I never thought that a random old clip of a song I wrote as a little girl would resurface and go completely viral. I couldn’t believe that people like Cardi B and Will Smith were quoting the clip. It turned it from what could have been embarrassing to something I totally embraced. It also helped sparked my entrepreneurial journey because after that I came out with a line of sweatshirts with the quote on them.
Other than ‘RHONJ,’ what’s your favorite ‘Housewives’ franchise?
Outside of the ‘Housewives’ universe, do you have a favorite Bravo show?
Tell us about your life outside of reality television, specifically your entrepreneurship?
What’s your favorite thing about being a big sister?
What message do you have for young women that follow you?
