We know that Teresa Giudice, the 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' star who has recently been put in prison, could use all the support in the world. But is she so important that the entire show has to be put on hold until she gets back from her 15-month sentence?

According to a TMZ report, Bravo is considering pushing back Season 7 until Giudice gets back, because the series might suffer otherwise. Without Teresa, the dynamic among the Real Housewives will suffer, possibly becoming boring. Another Bravo source reported that the network has been conducting focus groups to help make their final decision.

Part of this decision may have come from the ratings in Season 6. Apparently, 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' had its lowest ratings in Season 6 since the first time it aired. After the premiere, the ratings just got worse, not better. That is, until Teresa learned that she would be sent to prison for bankruptcy fraud.

According to Radar Online, despite the popularity that Giudice garners, Bravo is not eager to work with Giudice and her family again. "Producers have reached out to all of the ladies with the exception of Teresa, because she is now in prison. There is no interest in having Joe and their daughters on the show."

Nevertheless, fans may be forced to wait for the filming to start on February 5^th, when the mother-of-four gets out of prison. If this decision holds true, then fans will find a darker side to the show, especially since Teresa's husband, Joe, will begin his 41 month prison sentence as soon as Teresa gets out.