Jim Thornton, the longtime voice of “Wheel of Fortune,” has been suspended from the popular game show while an investigation is underway, according to Sony Pictures Television.
Fans of Wheel of Fortune may soon hear a different voice introducing the iconic game show.
Jim Thornton, who has served as the program’s announcer for more than a decade, has been temporarily removed from the series following allegations tied to an incident aboard a commercial flight earlier this year. Sony Pictures Television confirmed that Thornton has been suspended and that the show is looking for someone else to fill the announcing role during its investigation.
The news was initially reported by TMZ, which said the incident occurred during a flight in May. According to the report, concerns about Thornton were raised during the trip, and law enforcement was reportedly contacted before the aircraft reached its destination.
Sony Pictures Television confirmed the suspension in a statement but did not provide additional details about the allegations.
The studio said it had recently become aware of the claims involving Thornton and that he would remain suspended while the matter was investigated. The production is also moving forward with plans to recast the announcing position.
Thornton Has Been Part of ‘Wheel of Fortune’ for More Than 15 Years
Thornton became the announcer for Wheel of Fortune in 2010, taking over the role following the death of longtime announcer Charlie O’Donnell.
Over the years, Thornton became a familiar voice to millions of viewers watching the syndicated game show. He also served as the announcer for Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, which launched in 2021.
His absence represents a notable change for a program whose announcing voice has been an important part of its identity for decades.
While Sony has not announced who will replace Thornton permanently, the studio’s statement indicates that the position is already being recast as the investigation continues.
A Long Career in Los Angeles Radio and Television
Thornton’s broadcasting career stretches back several decades.
He first joined Los Angeles radio station KNX in 1985 as a traffic reporter through Metro Traffic. He later became known to Southern California audiences as an anchor and broadcaster, including work with KNX 1070 Newsradio and KCBS-TV.
His career has included radio, television, animation and commercial voice work. Thornton has also worked with Westwood One Radio Networks and spent several years as the voice of KCOP-TV.
His professional achievements include an Edward R. Murrow Award, multiple Golden Mike Awards and an Emmy.
Thornton Has Worked Across Entertainment
Although many viewers know Thornton primarily from Wheel of Fortune, his résumé extends well beyond the game show.
He voiced Johnny Gomez on the animated series Celebrity Deathmatch and worked as an announcer on programs including The Cleveland Show and Tim & Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!
Thornton has also contributed his voice to video games and other entertainment projects. His credits include commercial narration connected to Pixar’s 2001 animated film Monsters, Inc. He also provided the narration for the Oscar-nominated animated short Let’s Pollute in 2011.
He previously served as a substitute announcer on The Price Is Right, giving him another connection to one of American television’s best-known game-show franchises.
What Happens Next?
For now, Thornton’s future with Wheel of Fortune remains uncertain.
Sony Pictures Television has not indicated how long the suspension will last or whether Thornton could eventually return to the show. The studio has said that an investigation is being conducted and that the announcing position is being recast during that process.
Until more information becomes available, viewers can expect the familiar Wheel of Fortune format to continue while the production team determines who will take over the microphone.
The situation remains developing, and additional details could emerge as the investigation progresses.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Allegations mentioned are based on reported information, and the investigation is ongoing. No wrongdoing should be assumed unless officially established.
