Former “Impractical Jokers” star Joe Gatto, 48, has checked himself into an in-patient- facility after the recent sexual assault and sexual harassment allegations.
PEOPLE confirmed the news and shared a brief statement on Gatto’s behalf:
“Having taken some time to reflect, l’ve decided to voluntarily enter an inpatient program to continue working on myself. I just want to thank my friends, fans and especially my family for all of their support — never more so than over the last few days.”
A source close to the situation also told PEOPLE that all of Gatto’s upcoming tour dates will be canceled.
His nightmare started on March 20th, when in a series of TikTok videos user Joozyb shared screenshots of their alleged Instagram DMs, where Gatto reportedly told her he was giving her “two meet and greet passes” so she could go backstage at one of his Milwaukee shows in September 2023, when she was 19. She also posted a photo of herself with Gatto.
She alleged that after the show, Gatto began using vanish mode on Instagram messages. In those messages, he reportedly gave her instructions to reach his hotel room, where the alleged assault took place.
In another TikTok, Gatto’s accuser displayed a bruise on her backside, writing: “Yes he did S.A. me. Yes he had JUST gotten back together with his wife. I’m sorry you guys don’t want to hear it but…”.
Gatto denies the allegations
The comedian shut down the claims in a statement to Page Six the following Saturday: “I have used poor judgment and as a result have violated the trust of the people I love most, but anyone who knows me at all knows full well that I wouldn’t assault anyone.”
Gatto added: “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.”
Joe Gatto starred in the American hidden camera and reality show “Impractical Jokers” for nine seasons until December 2021. In an Instagram post he cited personal reasons, primarily focusing on his family. He revealed that he and his wife, Bessy Gatto, had decided to separate, and he wanted to step away from the show to prioritize co-parenting their children.
Despite leaving the show, Gatto has continued performing stand-up comedy and engaging with fans through live events and social media.
