Why Jersey Shore Is Totally Fake

Jersey Shore made its triumphant return to MTV six years after the final season aired in 2012. A lot has changed since the housemates put a horrifying dent in New Jersey's alcohol reserves and were basically run out of Seaside Heights by angry state officials. The cast is healthier (Vinny Guadagnino doesn't eat carbs), they're sober (the Situation doesn't drink), and they've settled down (JWoww and Snooki have kids!). One thing hasn't changed? They're still unapologetically themselves. But, while Jersey Shore's success has always hinged on the cast's overwhelming authenticity, can reality TV ever be truly authentic?

Jersey Shore is surprisingly true-to-form as far as MTV reality shows go. Bizarrely enough, the cast actually does adore each other in real life (name one other show where a randomly assembled cast considers their housemates family). They also held real jobs, where they got paid real money, and they formed real, long-lasting relationships. Evidence: Snooki and JWoww both married their on-screen boyfriends, which is more than most winners of The Bachelor can say.

Despite the show's inherent realness, however, MTV producers still managed to orchestrate some intense drama. From the infamous note to Shore Store antics, here's how Jersey Shore is totally fake.