Country of origin United States No. of seasons 5 | Original language(s) English | |
Starring Sondra CelliMellie Stanley YorkNettie StanleyKayla WilliamsLaura Johnston | ||
My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding is a controversial US reality television series that debuted on the TLC in April 2012. It claims to revolve around the marriage customs of Romani-Americans ("Gypsies") – allegedly members of Romanichal clans. It is a spin-off of Britain's Channel 4 series Big Fat Gypsy Weddings.
It was announced in June 2012 that the series had been renewed for a second season, which debuted March 24, 2013. Season 4 premiered April 4, 2014 and Season 5 in February 2015.
My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding has led to a spinoff series: Gypsy Sisters (2013).
Controversies
Both the British original and the American version of the series have faced a number of controversies, including allegations of racism in its advertising and causing racially motivated bullying. The Romani Gypsy community has criticized the series for misrepresenting the ethnic minority with non-Romani characters posing as “Gypsy”, and Billy Welch – a spokesman for Romani Gypsies – stated:
The American version of the series has faced controversy and criticism from Romani-Americans, and from journalists and activists concerned with minority rights, claiming that the series is “wildly misleading,” cultivating racist stereotypes, and misrepresenting the American Romani/Gypsy community.