Longtime “Wheel of Fortune” announcer Jim Thornton has been suspended from the popular game show while Sony Pictures Television Studios investigates allegations involving his conduct.
Sony Suspends Thornton and Begins Recasting
“We have recently been made aware of allegations concerning Jim Thornton. He has been suspended from Wheel of Fortune, and we are recasting while we conduct a thorough investigation,” a spokesperson for Sony Pictures Television Studios told Fox News Digital.
Thornton has served as the announcer for the syndicated game show since 2011. Sony did not provide additional details about the allegations or indicate how long the investigation may take.
The studio’s statement suggests that another announcer will be selected while the inquiry continues. It remains unclear whether the recasting will be temporary or permanent.
Allegations Reportedly Involve American Airlines Flight
The reported incident occurred aboard an American Airlines flight Thornton took in May, according to TMZ. Another passenger allegedly raised concerns about Thornton’s behavior during the flight, prompting law enforcement officers to meet the aircraft after it landed.
“On May 14, American Airlines Flight 1276 was met by law enforcement upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport following concerns reported by a customer onboard,” the airline told TMZ.
Thornton was not taken into custody, TMZ reported. No criminal charges were mentioned in connection with the incident.
Fox News Digital said it contacted American Airlines for additional comment.
Thornton Joined ‘Wheel of Fortune’ in 2011
Thornton became the voice of “Wheel of Fortune” after longtime announcer Charlie O’Donnell died in 2010. O’Donnell had been closely associated with the program for decades, making Thornton’s appointment a significant transition for one of America’s longest-running television game shows.
Since joining the program, Thornton has introduced contestants, announced prizes and participated in the show’s familiar opening sequence. He has also worked on “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune,” the prime-time version featuring well-known contestants competing for charitable organizations.
“Wheel of Fortune” has undergone other major changes in recent years. Ryan Seacrest succeeded longtime host Pat Sajak, while Vanna White continued in her established role on the program.
Career Includes Television, Film and Radio
Before becoming the show’s announcer, Thornton built a career across television, film and radio. His voice credits include “Celebrity Deathmatch,” “The Cleveland Show” and Pixar’s animated film “Monsters, Inc.”
He has also contributed to other major game shows, including “The Price Is Right” and “Jeopardy!” In addition to his entertainment work, Thornton has been associated with KNX 1070 Newsradio in Los Angeles since 1985.
Sony has not announced who will replace Thornton during the investigation. His future with “Wheel of Fortune” is expected to remain uncertain until the studio completes its review of the allegations.
Ambrose Sherman writes for Hardwood Paroxysm, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear reporting, current affairs, and stories that matter to readers, providing reliable information in an accessible and engaging way.
