Jim Thornton, the announcer for ‘Wheel of Fortune’, is defending his actions through his legal representative following a suspension this past week. His lawyer informed TMZ that Thornton, now 61, has not been involved in any illegal activities, nor has he been arrested or charged with any crime.
A representative from Sony Pictures Television Studios provided a statement to Fox News Digital, indicating that they have been made aware of allegations concerning Thornton. Consequently, he has been suspended from ‘Wheel of Fortune’, and the show is recasting as a thorough investigation is underway.
Background on Jim Thornton
Jim Thornton took over as the announcer for ‘Wheel of Fortune’ in 2011. Before this role, he worked as an announcer on shows like ‘The Price is Right’ and ‘Jeopardy!’. He has also performed voice roles in programs like ‘Celebrity Death Match’, ‘The Cleveland Show’, and Pixar’s ‘Monsters, Inc.’. His broadcasting career includes a stint with KNX 1070 news radio starting in 1985. Thornton has been honored with awards such as the Edward R. Murrow award and an Emmy.
The incident prompting his suspension relates to a flight on American Airlines in May, during which another passenger raised concerns about Thornton’s behavior. Law enforcement was present when the aircraft arrived at Los Angeles International Airport. The airline confirmed to Fox News Digital that law enforcement was involved upon the flight’s arrival following a report from a passenger.
“Law enforcement spoke with him for less than five minutes, determined no wrongdoing had occurred, and informed him he was free to go,” Thornton’s lawyer stated.
Jim Thornton replaced the late Charlie O’Donnell as the announcer of ‘Wheel of Fortune’ after O’Donnell’s passing in 2010.