“Real Housewives of New Jersey” Teresa and Joe Giudice have been there to support their daughter Gia every step of the way. Now that she’s reached another career milestone with her impressive season 4 victory on “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test,” Teresa and Joe have shared the most touching dedications for her achievement.
Teresa’s Decision to Leave ‘Special Forces’
Teresa withdrew from the competition before her daughter took on the milling challenge, which had recruits pitted against each other in a fight. “There was no way that I would be able to sit there and watch my daughter get punched as a mom,” Teresa told PEOPLE, referring to the reason why she quit.
“I would’ve probably definitely jumped in and I knew… And I didn’t want to show my daughter me actually fighting either,” she admitted. “I’m sure Gia would’ve did the same for me or maybe not. Maybe she would’ve restrained herself because we were on ‘Special Forces.'”
“But I just didn’t want to show my daughter. I didn’t want to see her getting hit and I didn’t want her to see me fighting,” Teresa said.
It still “took everything” in her “to leave,” the competition early. She even “cried going home in the airport.”
“Even when I got home, I was crying. My husband [Luis Ruelas] was like, ‘what’s wrong with you?’ And I was just so upset.”
Teresa concluded, “but I knew she was going to be okay. I know my kid, so I knew she was going to be fine.”
Teresa & Joe Support Their Eldest Daughter
In an Instagram post from November 21, Teresa wrote a lengthy caption about how proud she was of Gia following her victory. Included in the post is a photo of the pair from BravoCon 2025.
“Watching you become one of only two people to complete the Special Forces course has been one of the proudest moments of my life. Your strength, determination, grit, and grace carried you through every challenge they put in front of you. You showed the world what I’ve always known, you are powerful, you are resilient, and when you set your mind to something, nothing can stop you.”
“You stayed positive, you stayed focused, you let your sense of humor and you proved to yourself that you can push past any limit. I’m inspired by you every single day.”
“Congratulations my beautiful girl,” Teresa concluded. “You did it. I love you beyond words.”
Joe shared a post on Instagram celebrating Gia. The first photo he included was of his mom, Filomena, holding onto Gia during the watch party they held for the finale of “Special Forces.” Joe’s post also featured her uncle, Joe Gorga, who was in attendance to celebrate his niece.
“Could not be more proud of my daughter, Gia,” Joe began in the caption of his post. “Watching you win on Special Forces has been one of the proudest moments of my life. You’ve grown into an incredible woman — courageous, disciplined, and full of heart. Your strength inspires me every day. Congrats, Gia. Keep shining!”
Gia is a strong woman with guts and determination to complete the show. She and Shawn deserve my support and respect. They both proved that women really are the strongest sex. For them to beat all of the men on the show is the real victory! Congratulations ladies!!
Awesome win to two strong & disciplined women!
Gia, you were Amazing!!! Your strength and courage far surpassed all the guys on the show.. Congratulations on your win 🩷