Joe Gatto, a former star of the hit series *Impractical Jokers*, has responded to serious allegations of sexual assault made against him by a woman on social media. The situation has garnered substantial attention online, particularly via TikTok, where the accuser, known as joozyb, claims the incident occurred in September 2023 after attending one of Gatto’s shows in Milwaukee.

In a statement released to Deadline, Gatto expressed remorse for his actions, saying, “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. 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.” His intention to step back from the public spotlight indicates a desire to handle the situation with the seriousness it deserves.

The allegations surfaced after joozyb posted a TikTok video detailing her experiences, stating, “I got sexually assaulted by Joe Gatto, the Impractical Joker.” She revealed that she had been privately discussing the event for over a year before it gained traction on social media. The video includes claims that Gatto contacted her for a meetup following the show, where he allegedly invited her to his hotel room after providing her with meet and greet passes.

In a powerful moment of sharing, joozyb also showed images purportedly depicting bruises on her body, which she claims were caused by Gatto during the incident. "I’ve been wanting to tell people this for so long,” she said. “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.” Her words highlight the struggles victims often face when coming forward, especially against individuals with a prominent public status.

Gatto was a key member of the Tenderloins comedy troupe alongside Sal Vulcano, James Murray, and Brian Quinn, starring in *Impractical Jokers* from its inception in 2011 until 2021. This show, known for its hidden camera pranks and comedic foibles, showcased the group’s signature humor and won a loyal fanbase. However, these recent events now cast a shadow over his past work, raising questions about accountability and the importance of addressing allegations of misconduct seriously.

As this story develops, it remains crucial to recognize the complexities surrounding allegations of this nature and the impact they have on both the individuals involved and the broader community.