The Real Housewives of New Jersey cast member has penned the cutest message for her oldest son on his big day.
Melissa Gorga is so proud of her "first-born son," Gino Gorga, who turned 17 years old on Thursday, September 12.
The Real Housewives of New Jersey cast member and mom of three kids — Antonia, Gino, and Joey Gorga — took to her Instagram account this week where she posted the sweetest message to her son, in honor of his big day. Melissa also shared a video containing photos of Gino, taken throughout the course of his life.
"The list could go on forever about your incredible traits," Melissa wrote in the caption of the emotional post. "You've always been the most responsible kid in the room, the most respectful, and the one who is always going to try harder and reach for the stars. Your athleticism and kindness make you a star. You may be shy but your ambition lights up a room. We all know you can stop working by the time you turn 30. Happy birthday! We love you so much!"
In the videos that Melissa posted, Gino can be seen as a little kid, eating pasta, lifting weights, and playing football. Much like in the video tribute shared by his mom, Gino practically grew up on camera as he was just four years old when Melissa joined RHONJ in Season 3.
Melissa Reveals that Gino Gorga is Getting His Driver's License
Melissa also took to her Instagram Story on Thursday, where she revealed that Gino was headed out the door to take his test to get his driver's license. "Happy birthday to my handsome boy," Melissa wrote over the video, along with a "fingers crossed" emoji.
Although she did not reveal if Gino did get his driver's license, she has been preparing for this moment for a very long time. Melissa took to her podcast, On Display with Melissa Gorga on September 5, where she talked about this major milestone moment with her husband, Joe Gorga.
Melissa noted that she has been slightly terrified to have Gino behind the wheel as he is just a little too quick to press the gas pedal. The Envy Boutique owner couldn't help but compare her middle child to his older sister, Antonia, who received her driver's license in 2022. "He's not as great of a driver as Antonia was," Melissa admitted. "She just had it. It was so easy for her."
Melissa and Joe have had conflicting opinions on picking out the perfect car for Gino. Although Melissa said that they would "never screw [Gino] over," she doesn't believe in getting Gino a "fast car" — even though Antonia got a Porsche when she turned 17.
"Whatever car Gino gets next week, I trust I'll find out when Gino finds out, and everyone else finds out, because Joe is totally like, sneaking me," she concluded. "We'll see what happens."
Fingers crossed Gino got his driver's license and the perfect car!
