Joe Gatto announces his departure from Impractical Jokers”
January 2, 2022 Andrew Buss Impractical Jokers, News, Television
Just as 2021 was drawing to a close Friday night, Joe Gatto made a big announcement on social media that he will “no longer be involved with Impractical Jokers.” Citing a separation from his wife and need to focus on his family as the catalyst for his decision.
“Alongside my friends, I’ve devoted a decade of my life to building this franchise and couldn’t be prouder of what has been accomplished,” Gatto wrote. “However, due to some issues in my personal life, I have to step away. Bessy and I have decided to amicably part ways, so now I need to focus on being the best father and co-parent to our two incredible kids.” Gatto’s wife, Bessy released an equally civil and complimentary statement about the issue as well, “With love and respect, we have decided to separate. Although we will no longer be a couple, we will always be a family to our beautiful kids and we look forward to co-parenting together.”
The duo have been together since 2013 and have two children. Joe telling his co-stars about getting married and having children were made public during a few Impractical Jokers road specials truTV aired. Bessy also made a few appearances on the show (as the group’s family sometimes does).
Gatto added, “Outside of my family, my relationships with Murr, Q and Sal have been the most important in my life. I know they will continue to make the world laugh. And even though the four of us are the ones who you all see, this show is only possible due to the hard work of the talented crew members who work behind the scenes. I am very thankful to have worked with each and every one of them.“
The other three members of The Tenderloins – James Murray, Brian Quinn, and Sal Vulcano shared a statement about Gatto’s departure, “After all these years together, we never imagined making Impractical Jokers without Joe,” the statement read. “While we are saddened to see him go, we want to keep making people laugh, keep our relationship with the Impractical Jokers fans going, and keep working with the members of our team that we consider family. With the support of our fans, we’ll get back to making a new chapter of Impractical Jokers in January.”
While it’s a surprise few saw coming, we can rely on the good news that the show will go on even though we’ll miss seeing Joe Gatto’s contribution to the team.
