In the Big House
When Michel Verdi and her husband, Jay, moved from just outside Philly to West Hollywood, they thought they were leaving it all behind until their entire family followed. Now, Michel and Jay share their home with Michel's mom, Dotsie and ex-con, former Mafioso dad, Big Lou who's been in and out of prison for 25 years. Did we mention Michel's parents have been divorced for 25 years, can't stand each other and haven't lived together until now? Rounding out the clan is Michel's out-and-unapologetic gay brother, Louis, who is eager to make it on his own, but unable to leave the family nest as of yet. "In the Big House" documents a new type of modern family, as these over-the-top characters struggle to succeed with humor, heart and a whole lot of drama.
- 2012-2013
- 1 season
- Logo
- Documentary, Reality
When Michel Verdi and her husband, Jay, moved from just outside Philly to West Hollywood, they thought they were leaving it all behind until their entire family followed. Now, Michel and Jay share their home with Michel's mom, Dotsie and ex-con, former Mafioso dad, Big Lou who's been in and out of prison for 25 years. Did we mention Michel's parents have been divorced for 25 years, can't stand each other and haven't lived together until now? Rounding out the clan is Michel's out-and-unapologetic gay brother, Louis, who is eager to make it on his own, but unable to leave the family nest as of yet. "In the Big House" documents a new type of modern family, as these over-the-top characters struggle to succeed with humor, heart and a whole lot of drama.
Season 1 Episode Guide
8 Episodes 2012 - 2013
Episode 1
A Verdi Can (Almost) Always Smell a Rat.
Fri, Jun 1, 2012 22 mins
Big Lou struggles to accept that his son is gay, but nonetheless turns protective when introduced Louis's boyfriend for the first time.
Episode 2
Sometimes You're the Ball and Sometimes You're the Bat
Fri, Jun 1, 2012 22 mins
Fubar fields a team in a gay softball league, but Big Lou nearly ruins it for Louis with his win-at-all-costs attitude. Meanwhile, Dotsie takes issue with Big Lou's attempts to insert himself into the lives of her kids after so many years away.
Episode 3
You're Never Too Old to Act Like a Baby
Mon, Sep 14, 2026 22 mins
Michel and Jay announce their desire to have a child with a surrogate, and Big Lou starts to worry that Louis's sexual orientation might mean the Verdi family name will die with him. Michael also organizes a family photo.
Episode 4
The Truth Always Comes Out, So Make Sure You Come Out First
Mon, Sep 14, 2026 22 mins
Louis drives his Dad to Fresno to see Grandma Verdi, and a lot of truth comes out. At home, Michel and Dotsie's relaxing spa day turns into a day of drama that ruins Jay's night.
Episode 5
The Verdi's Should All Be Committed
Mon, Sep 14, 2026 22 mins
Fubar sponsors a float for the first time in the West Hollywood Gay Pride parade, but Big Lou refuses to participate. Michel, Dotsie and the gang redecorate the float, while an old friend pays Big Lou a visit.
Episode 6
You Date One Verdi, You Date Them All
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 22 mins
Feeling that their parents might be lonely, Michel and Louis decide to set them up on blind dates. Big Lou thinks his son and son-in-law are too soft and takes them to a boxing gym to toughen them up.
Episode 7
The Verdi's Can Run from Each Other, But They Can't Hide
Sat, Sep 1, 2012 22 mins
Michel and Jay try to escape the family pressures by taking a weekend getaway to Palm Springs, but the family isn't far behind. Fubar is left in the hands of Big Lou for a night.
Episode 8
Don't Rain on a Verdi's Gay Parade
Tue, Sep 3, 2013 21 mins
Fubar sponsors a float for the first time in the West Hollywood Gay Pride parade, but Big Lou refuses to participate. Michel, Dotsie and the gang redecorate the float, while an old friend pays Big Lou a visit.