Wheel of Fortune Announcer Jim Thornton Suspended Amid Investigation

Jim Thornton, a long-time announcer for the game show Wheel of Fortune, has been suspended amid allegations being investigated by Sony Pictures Television. The studio informed Variety that Thornton has been suspended from the show and that they are conducting a thorough investigation. The source of the investigation remains undisclosed, though TMZ suggests it stems from an incident on a commercial flight in May.

According to TMZ, another passenger reportedly raised concerns to a flight attendant, which led the pilot to alert law enforcement. Thornton was questioned upon arrival but was later released. American Airlines confirmed that Flight 1276 was met by law enforcement when it landed at Los Angeles International Airport on May 14 following passenger concerns, but did not provide further details.

Thornton has been the voice of Wheel of Fortune since 2011, succeeding Charlie O’Donnell after his death the previous year. He was among the guest announcers who auditioned for the role during the show's 28th season before being named as the permanent replacement. Thornton's career extends beyond Wheel of Fortune, with various radio, television, and voice acting credits including Celebrity Deathmatch, The Cleveland Show, Monsters, Inc., and a stint as an anchor for Los Angeles' KNX News.

It remains unclear who will replace the 61-year-old announcer or if Thornton's suspension will lead to a permanent recasting. Thornton has not yet commented on his suspension or the circumstances surrounding it.