Jim Thornton, the longtime announcer on Wheel of Fortune, has been suspended by Sony Pictures Television Studios while the company investigates allegations concerning him.
The studio told TMZ that it was “recently made aware” of the allegations and was recasting the role during what it described as a thorough investigation. It did not disclose the nature of the claims. ([tmz.com](https://www.tmz.com/2026/09/01/jim-thornton-suspended/?utm_source=openai))
The reported investigation is understood to centre on an incident aboard an American Airlines flight in May. TMZ reported that a passenger complained about Thornton to a flight attendant during the journey.
Law enforcement officers were reportedly waiting for Thornton when the aircraft reached the gate at Los Angeles International Airport. He was questioned before being allowed to leave, with no further details of the encounter made public.
American Airlines confirmed that Flight 1276 was met by officers after arriving at Los Angeles International Airport on 14 May “following concerns reported by a customer onboard”. The airline did not identify the passenger or provide further information. ([tmz.com](https://www.tmz.com/2026/09/01/jim-thornton-suspended/?utm_source=openai))
Thornton was reportedly wearing a Wheel of Fortune jacket at the time. The allegations remain unproven and no specific accusation has been publicly detailed.
He joined Wheel of Fortune as announcer in 2011, following the death of longtime voice Charlie O’Donnell. The programme is currently hosted by Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White, according to Sony Pictures Entertainment. ([paramountpressexpress.com](https://www.paramountpressexpress.com/cbs-media-ventures/shows/wheel-of-fortune/talent/?view=jim-thornton&utm_source=openai))
TMZ said it had contacted Thornton for comment, but no response had been reported.
