Near-Death Experience of Joe Gatto on Impractical Jokers
Although most practical jokes on Impractical Jokers are lighthearted, one nearly killed Joe Gatto. Still, his leaving the show was not motivated by this occurrence. Longtime member of The Tenderloins comic ensemble Gatto was recognized for his confidence in facing any task. The show suffered much from his leaving midway through season 9.
The Stunt from Nitro Circus
The near-death incident occurred during a Nitro Circus staff cooperation on the 200th episode of Impractical Jokes. Gatto ran the route on foot after suffering a mechanical breakdown trying a stunt on a mini-bike. This brought about a near-heart attack that required medical attention and a brief pause from filming.
The Real Reason Joe Gatto Left
Gatto left Impractical Jokes not because of the Nitro Circus stunt, despite the terrifying event. Citing personal reasons, he revealed his decision on December 31, 2021. Gatto said he was concentrating on his family, particularly on his separation from his wife Bessy and the imperative of being present for their children. Season 9, episode 17 "Moist Richard" marked his last episode.
After Joe Gatto's Leave: Practical Jokes
Gatto's leaving left the dynamic of the show lacking something. Impractical Jokers used a guest-star approach, with a fresh celebrity every week rather than replacing him permanently. This strategy brings surprise and diversity, but as many fans have observed, the special chemistry between the four founding members is definitely lacking.
Honoring Byamba: An Impractical Jokes Guest Star
Impractical Jokes hosted lots of visitors even before Gatto left. One prominent appearance was by world-class Mongolian sumo wrestler Ulambayaryn Byambajav, sometimes known as Byamba. Appearing in season 4, episode 11 "Pseudo-Summary," Byamba served as Gatto's punishment. Unfortunately, Byamba died following an extended illness on February 28, 2020. Four World Sumo Champions titles and more than a thousand live sumo events define his legacy. His performance on Impractical Jokes brought to a larger audience his talent and joyful attitude.
Pranks: A Legacy of Practical Joking
Comprising Sal Vulcano, James "Murr" Murray, Brian "Q" Quinn, and Joe Gatto, Impractical Jokers—a hidden-camera prank show—have delighted viewers since 2011. The structure of the play depends on tasks that try the companions' capacity for improvisation and following directions, thereby resulting in embarrassing and funny penalties for those who fail.