Jim Thornton Dismissed From ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Following Allegations Review

Jim Thornton, the announcer for Wheel of Fortune, has been terminated from his position.

A representative for Sony Pictures Television, the production company behind the game show, confirmed the termination on Friday. The spokesperson issued a statement to Rolling Stone confirming that after a thorough investigation, Thornton’s employment with Wheel of Fortune was ended immediately.

The firing comes after a TMZ report detailing an alleged incident on an American Airlines commercial flight in May. American Airlines told People that on May 14, Flight 1276 was met by law enforcement upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) due to concerns raised by a passenger onboard. The airline declined to provide further details about the alleged incident or identify Thornton.

In response, Thornton’s attorney stated to TMZ that the media personality did not engage in any illegal conduct, was not arrested, and has not been charged with a crime.

The attorney further explained to TMZ that when questioned about the complaint filed by a fellow passenger, law enforcement spoke with Thornton for less than five minutes, immediately determined that no wrongdoing occurred, and released him without charge.

Earlier in the week, the longtime announcer was suspended following previously unspecified allegations.

Representatives for Thornton, Sony Pictures Television, and American Airlines did not immediately respond to Rolling Stone’s request for comment.

Thornton has served as the voice of Wheel of Fortune since the 2010 passing of Charlie O’Donnell, who previously held the role. He also worked as an afternoon anchor for news radio KNX 1070 in Los Angeles and has appeared on programs such as The Price Is Right, Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, and The Soup. Additionally, he is recognized for his voiceover work in film and television, including appearances on The Cleveland Show and Monsters, Inc.

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