“Impractical Jokers” Pull Off Biggest Stunt Yet on Empire State Building: ‘I Did Not Expect to Start Crying’ (Exclusive)

James “Murr” Murray has taken his stunts to new heights as part of his latest escapade for the long-running series *Impractical Jokers*. During the finale for Season 13, the 50-year-old performer made a dramatic descent from the 103rd floor of the iconic Empire State Building, beaming as he waved to his colleagues and onlookers while cleaning the skyscraper’s windows.

The unexpected stunt occurred on 18th August, when Murray was surprised by his co-stars, Sal Vulcano and Brian “Q” Quinn, who informed him that he would be completing his work in a unique manner — outside the building. Dressed as a human mop and secured in a harness, Murray descended the famous landmark, greeting his friends and wife, Melyssa Davies, who watched from inside the building.

Vulcano shared that the idea for the stunt had been floating around since 2016, initially considering a different location, such as a Staten Island ferry. “This leveled it up,” Vulcano noted, indicating the ambitious nature of their latest venture. Murray, who learned about the stunt just hours before it took place, expressed disbelief at the concept. “I didn’t think it was possible or real,” he stated, pondering the logistics of such a daring plan without insurance or approvals.

In a delightful twist, Quinn and Vulcano arranged for Davies to hold a sign that read, “I’m late,” prompting Murray to react with a mix of surprise and amusement. “Part of me thought it was real, and then I was like, ‘This is magical,’” Murray recalled. When he returned to the balcony after the descent, he was overwhelmed by emotion, stating, “I did not expect to start crying… I had a full-blown emotional reaction… I’m like, ‘Holy s—, we just pulled that off.’”

The trio of Murray, Vulcano, and Quinn, along with their former castmate Joe Gatto, who departed the show in 2021, are celebrating 15 years in the entertainment business. Their friendship, which began in their teenage years, has undoubtedly contributed to the show’s ongoing success. “We can catch each other off guard still, which is wild and what makes the show still fun to do,” Vulcano commented.

One of the reasons behind the show’s enduring popularity, Quinn suggested, is its simplicity. “I think it’s one of the last shows on television that asks you to shut off your brain completely,” he explained, emphasising that audiences can simply watch and enjoy without needing to engage in heavy thinking. Vulcano reiterated this sentiment, pointing out the emotional connections viewers have forged with them over the years, as well as their relatability. “I think if you have friends, you relate,” he said.

Reflecting on their teenage selves, the cast finds it hard to believe how far they have come. “We couldn’t have imagined this path,” Murray recalled, while Quinn added, “I’m living it now, and I still can’t believe it’s possible.” Vulcano noted the remarkable fact that, even after 13 seasons, they still enjoy the process, appreciating the show’s standing in the competitive television landscape.

The friendship and chemistry among the trio have undoubtedly played a vital role in keeping the show fresh and engaging. “Being in season 13, still having a blast and people still finding it, and the ratings still being what they are, we can’t really explain it,” Vulcano remarked. The three friends are grateful for the continued opportunity to entertain audiences and are excited for what lies ahead.

As for what Murr plans to do to seek revenge for the surprising window-cleaning ordeal, he hinted at having some tricks up his sleeve. “I have lots of ideas,” he said with a grin, teasing the potential for future antics.

*Impractical Jokers* continues to entertain loyal viewers with fresh episodes, airing Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET on TBS, maintaining its legacy as a favourite among fans for over a decade and a half.