Joe Gatto Responds to Sexual Assault Allegations

Joe Gatto, the former star of the popular television series “Impractical Jokers,” has come forward with a statement in response to serious allegations made against him by a TikTok user. The accusations, which surfaced recently, involve claims of sexual assault that reportedly took place in September 2023 after one of Gatto’s comedy shows in Milwaukee.

In a statement shared with Deadline, Gatto expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging that he has made poor judgments that have violated the trust of those closest to him. “But anyone who knows me at all knows full well that I wouldn’t assault anyone,” he stated. Gatto also mentioned that he will be taking time away from the public eye to focus on personal growth and self-improvement.

The allegations were made by a TikTok user identified as joozyb, who claimed to have been sexually assaulted by Gatto when she was 19 years old. In a video posted on Thursday, she detailed her experience, stating that she had been in contact with Gatto for over a year regarding the incident but did not expect her story to gain significant attention.

Joozyb shared alleged screenshots of direct messages between her and Gatto, claiming that after he provided her with meet and greet passes, he invited her to his hotel room while the conversation was in “vanish mode.” She also revealed a photo showing bruises on her body, alleging that these were inflicted by Gatto during the encounter.

“I’ve been wanting to tell people this for so long,” she expressed in her video. “It’s hard with somebody this big. [I’ve] come to the realization that if I do say something, that I’m really saying something.”

Joe Gatto is best known for his role in “Impractical Jokers,” a hidden camera comedy series that he starred in from 2011 to 2021 alongside his comedy troupe, The Tenderloins, which includes Sal Vulcano, James Murray, and Brian Quinn. The show has garnered a massive following and has been a staple of TruTV’s programming.

In light of these serious allegations, it is crucial to remind those affected by sexual assault that help is available. The RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 800-656-HOPE (4673), and they also offer an online chat hotline for support.

As this situation develops, both Gatto and the accuser’s stories will be closely followed, highlighting the importance of addressing such allegations with sensitivity and care.