Jim Thornton, the well-known announcer for “Wheel of Fortune,” has been temporarily suspended. Sony Pictures Television Studios confirmed the suspension, stating, “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.”
Thornton joined the popular game show as an announcer in 2011. The allegations are connected to an incident on an American Airlines flight in May. According to TMZ, another passenger raised concerns about Thornton’s behavior during the flight. Upon landing at Los Angeles International Airport, law enforcement met the flight due to these reports. However, Thornton was not detained.
The airline responded to the reports, saying, “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.” Fox News Digital has reached out to the airline for further comments.
Before Thornton took on the role for “Wheel of Fortune,” replacing the late Charlie O’Donnell, he had already built a substantial career. His previous work included voice roles for shows such as “Celebrity Death Match,” “The Cleveland Show,” and Pixar’s “Monsters, Inc.” He also contributed to “The Price is Right” and “Jeopardy!” and has a long history with KNX 1070 Newsradio, beginning in 1985.
Throughout his career, Thornton has been acknowledged for his work with prestigious awards, including the Edward R. Murrow award and an Emmy, as listed in his “Wheel of Fortune” biography.