Joe Gatto, Former ‘Impractical Jokers’ Star, Faces Sexual Assault Allegation
Joe Gatto, formerly of “Impractical Jokers,” is facing an accusation of sexual assault.
A TikTok user, known as Joozyb, alleged in a video posted on March 20 that the comedian, 48, sexually assaulted her in 2023 when she was 19 years old.
Gatto refuted the accusation in a statement issued to Page Six on Saturday.
“I have demonstrated poor judgment, which resulted in a breach of trust with those I hold dear,” Gatto stated. “However, anyone personally acquainted with me knows I am not capable of assaulting anyone.”
“Personal growth is a continuous journey, and I will now be taking time away from public engagements to concentrate my efforts where they are most needed,” Gatto added.
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The Post has reached out to Gatto for comment regarding the allegations.
Accuser Details Alleged Encounter
In a series of TikTok videos, Gatto’s accuser stated that they initially met at one of his comedy shows in Milwaukee in September 2023.
Joozyb presented screenshots of purported direct message exchanges on Instagram, where Gatto allegedly offered her “two meet and greet passes” for backstage access. Joozyb also shared a photograph of herself with Gatto.
“I was intoxicated, and he was texting me all this,” Joozyb recounted in one video. “And it began to feel a bit strange, you know?”
Joozyb claimed that following the show, Gatto purportedly activated vanish mode on their Instagram messages. She further alleged that in these messages, he provided directions to his hotel room, where the purported assault occurred.
In another TikTok video, Joozyb displayed a bruise on her backside, stating, “Yes, he did sexually assault me. Yes, he had JUST reconciled with his wife. I’m sorry if this is unwelcome news, but…”
Gatto’s Past Separation and Reconciliation with Wife
Gatto separated from his wife, Bessy, in 2021 after eight years of marriage, a decision he cited as the reason for leaving “Impractical Jokers.”
“Due to personal matters, I need to step away,” he announced on Instagram at the time. “Bessy and I have decided to amicably separate, and my focus now needs to be on being the best father and co-parent to our two incredible children.”
Bessy, who shares two children with Gatto, stated, “Although we will no longer be a couple, we will always remain a family for our wonderful children, and we are committed to co-parenting together. We kindly request that you respect our privacy as we navigate this new phase.”
Reconciliation in 2023
However, in September 2023, Gatto announced their reconciliation.
“Ten years ago when we began, I could not have envisioned the utterly remarkable journey, with its peaks and valleys, that our marriage would endure,” the comedian shared on Instagram. “But love has always been present. And I know there is no one else I want as my partner.”
Gatto concluded, “We have demonstrated that with compassion, forgiveness, and open hearts, we can overcome challenges. Together.”