Italians Have Mixed Reaction to “Jersey” Cast Arrival

"Maybe the art could save The Situation," says Florence mayor

Ready or not, the "Jersey Shore" has landed in Florence.

Snooki, The Situation, and the rest of the tanned, hard-partying gang were greeted by screaming fans when they emerged from the airport on Monday. But Italians have a mixed reaction to the infamous guidos and guidettes filming in their 'hood for the reality show's upcoming season.

Florence Mayor Matteo Renzi tried to be optimistic. "Maybe the art could save The Situation and the other stars," he told the Today Show, referencing star cast-member Michael Sorrentino.

Renzi didn't go into much detail about what The Situation needed to be saved from, but some of the locals offered some ideas.

"They are full of tattoo, they get drunk, I think they are stupid," said one woman of the infamous guidos and guidettes. Another girl said, "Italians are not like that."

The "Jersey Shore" gang is often criticized for promoting ugly stereotypes of Italians. Snooki and JWOWW (Jenni Farley) are constantly chasing after bulky Italian juicehead gorillas and Vinny (Guadagnino) and The Situation boast their Italian roots.

But Mayor Renzi has imposed some rules for his bronzed visitors and has asked that the cast not be filmed drinking. It's not clear if he realized that was half the show.

"Jersey Shore" will be filmed in Italy throughout the spring and is expected to air in the fall.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Selected Reading: PopEater, Entertainment Weekly, TV Squad

Contact Us