Jim Thornton, the announcer for "Wheel of Fortune," has denied any allegations of wrongdoing following an incident on an American Airlines flight that led to his suspension from the game show. His lawyer told TMZ that Thornton "did not engage in any illegal conduct, was not arrested, and has not been charged with any crime."
The alleged incident occurred on May 14 during a flight to Los Angeles International Airport. According to sources cited by TMZ, a fellow passenger complained about Thornton to a flight attendant. Law enforcement officers were notified and met Thornton, 61, at the gate upon his arrival. He was questioned briefly by officers, who determined that no wrongdoing had occurred, and he was released.
Thornton's attorney emphasized that law enforcement spoke with his client for "five minutes or less" and "immediately determined that no wrongdoing had occurred," allowing him to leave the airport.
American Airlines confirmed to Page Six that an alleged incident was reported and officers were notified. A spokesperson for Sony, the show's producer, stated on Tuesday that "we have recently been made aware of allegations concerning Jim Thornton." The company has suspended him from "Wheel of Fortune" and is recasting his role "while we conduct a thorough investigation."
Thornton joined "Wheel of Fortune" in 2011, succeeding former announcer Charlie O'Donnell. He also worked with longtime host Pat Sajak before Sajak's retirement in 2024. Thornton's previous television work includes appearances on "The Soup," "The Price Is Right," and "Celebrity Deathmatch."