Sony Pictures Television has officially terminated Jim Thornton's employment as the announcer for 'Wheel of Fortune' following an investigation into an incident on a flight.
Jim Thornton, the longstanding announcer of the iconic game show Wheel of Fortune, has been officially dismissed by Sony Pictures Television, the company that produces the show. This decision was confirmed on September 4, 2026, following an internal investigation into an alleged incident during an American Airlines flight in May.
According to a spokeswoman from Sony, Thornton’s termination is effective immediately. The announcement confirms the severity of the situation previously reported by various sources, including Deadline.
The allegations leading to Thornton’s dismissal relate to his conduct on an American Airlines flight, specifically an incident that reportedly involved engaging with a chatroom associated with inappropriate content. Following this incident, Thornton was suspended as the show’s announcer, and a thorough investigation was conducted.
American Airlines also indicated that law enforcement met the flight upon its arrival in Los Angeles due to concerns raised by passengers.
With Thornton's dismissal, the producers of Wheel of Fortune have taken decisive steps to recast his role. His interim replacement is expected to voice the announcer duties in the upcoming season, which is set to premiere on September 14. Additionally, the new announcer will also take over for the Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, which is scheduled to return on October 2.
Thornton has been the voice of Wheel of Fortune since 2011 and has lent his talents to over 2,200 episodes. His voice was also familiar to viewers of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune since its launch in 2021. Before his time on Wheel of Fortune, Thornton was recognized for his work as the afternoon anchor on KNX 1070, an L.A. news radio station.
Thornton's departure marks a significant change for Wheel of Fortune, a show that has been a staple of American television for decades. Given his tenure and association with the program, his absence will be notable for the show's loyal audience, many of whom may have formed a connection with him over the years. His unique style and presence have been a part of the game show's charm, and viewers will have to acclimate to a new voice moving forward.
While fans await the new announcer's debut, the situation highlights the importance of conduct and the impact of personal actions on professional opportunities in the entertainment industry.
The future of Wheel of Fortune remains on course, with the upcoming season poised to introduce viewers to a new announcer. Thornton's role, which he has filled for over a decade, will need to be rapidly adjusted to maintain the show's consistency. With confirmed changes in the show's lineup, fans and audiences will be observing how the transition unfolds and whether it affects the show's enduring popularity.
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