Jim Thornton, the familiar voice of "Wheel of Fortune," has been terminated from his role as announcer by Sony Pictures Television Studios. The decision comes after Thornton was suspended from the long-running game show earlier this week.
Departure Follows Suspension
While Sony Pictures Television Studios has not publicly disclosed the specific nature of the allegations that led to Thornton's dismissal, the termination follows a period of suspension. Thornton had served as the announcer for "Wheel of Fortune" since 2011, taking over from the iconic Charlie O’Donnell, who passed away in 2010.
Details Emerge About Alleged Incident
Reports indicate that the incident in question is connected to an American Airlines flight Thornton took in May. During the flight, another passenger reportedly raised concerns about Thornton's behavior, leading to law enforcement meeting the aircraft upon its arrival at Los Angeles International Airport.
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.
Despite the law enforcement presence, Thornton was not taken into custody following the encounter.
On September 2, Thornton's legal representative issued a statement addressing the allegations. His attorney asserted that the 61-year-old "did not engage in any illegal conduct, was not arrested and has not been charged with any crime."
The attorney further elaborated on the interaction with authorities:
When questioned about the complaint made by a fellow passenger on the flight, law enforcement spoke to him for five minutes or less, immediately determined that no wrongdoing had occurred and told my client he was free to go.