Impractical Jokers Question

Assuming this program is reasonably popular, would not people in and around NY/NJ recognized these guys when they are taping?

In a reddit AMA they said it does happen a lot where people will recognize them and approach them but that they’ll quietly thank the person for watching and ask them to move along.

I have twice come across a hidden camera show, both times in the 80s. It was incredibly obvious. I think that a lot of people play along to get on TV.