Joe Gatto, one of the original cast members of the hit prank show "Impractical Jokers," has officially transitioned into a new phase of his career. After announcing his departure three years ago, Gatto has made it clear that he has no plans to return to the show. Instead, he is focusing on personal growth and new creative endeavors. Despite leaving the show, Gatto remains friends with his former co-stars and expresses hope for future collaborations. Additionally, Gatto has reconciled with his wife, Bessy, after a period of separation, reaffirming his commitment to family life.
Gatto's decision to step away from "Impractical Jokers" marks the end of a significant chapter in his life. Having spent over a decade creating and starring in 300 episodes of the show, Gatto feels he has explored all the comedic avenues he wanted to pursue. He emphasizes that returning to the show no longer feels right for him, as both he and the series have evolved. Although fans may feel disappointed, Gatto assures them that this move was necessary for his personal and professional development.
After dedicating so much time and energy to the prank show, Gatto expressed that he has told all the jokes he wanted to tell. The comedian stated that while he cherishes the memories and accomplishments with his former co-stars James Murray, Brian Quinn, and Sal Vulcano, he is now focused on moving forward. Gatto also mentioned that he would love to close the show in a fun way if it ever comes to an end, but for now, he is fully committed to his new ventures. His departure was initially driven by personal issues, including a separation from his wife, which he addressed in a heartfelt Instagram post in December 2021. However, Gatto has since reconciled with Bessy, expressing gratitude for her resilience and love.
Beyond his career shift, Gatto has prioritized his personal life, particularly his role as a father and co-parent to his two children. This change in focus came after he and his wife decided to part ways amicably. Through compassion and forgiveness, they managed to reconcile, leading to a renewed sense of hope and happiness. Gatto has been vocal about his appreciation for his family and looks forward to making more memories together.
In addition to his personal life, Gatto is venturing into new creative territories. His recent comedy special, "Messing with People," available on Hulu, showcases his evolution as a comedian. While he has moved on from "Impractical Jokers," Gatto remains open to collaborating with his former co-stars on various projects. He emphasized that their friendship extends beyond the show, and they continue to work on side projects together. Gatto's journey reflects a blend of personal growth and professional exploration, highlighting his dedication to both his family and his craft.