But Impractical Jokers star admits to ‘poor judgment’ over fan encounter

 Impractical Jokers star Joe Gatto has denied sexually assaulting a fan but admitted ‘poor judgment’ over their encounter.

The woman made the claims in a number of videos on TikTok, sharing text messages she exchanged with the comedian apparently inviting her to his hotel room.

‘I got sexually assaulted by Joe Gatto, the Impractical Joker. I’m sorry if you don’t believe it.’  In another post she wrote: ‘Even the "good ones" aren’t safe, trust me’

She told how they met in a restaurant and started trading texts as she tried to get free tickets to his show. Eventually she agreed to go to his hotel room at 2am,  despite being drunk.

The 48-year-old comedian – who last week announced a UK tour –  issued a statement yesterday  denying the allegations.

"I have used poor judgment and as a result have violated the trust of the people I love most,’ he toldy Variety. ‘But anyone who knows me at all knows full well that I wouldn’t assault anyone. Working on myself is an ongoing process, and I am now going to take some time away from the public eye to focus my energies where I need to.’

When Gatto left Impractical Jokers in 2021 he cited ‘issues in my personal life’ and announced he and his wife, Bessy, were splitting up. The couple – who have two children together –  got back together in 2023.

The TikTok user, who uses the name joozyb, said Gatto had just got back together with his wife when the alleged assault happened.

Published: 23 Mar 2025