Jim Thornton news
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The gist
Wheel of Fortune suspended announcer Jim Thornton amid allegations. Sony is recasting while investigating an incident on a May flight.
Background
Jim Thornton, the longtime announcer for 'Wheel of Fortune' since 2010, was suspended by Sony Pictures Television on September 1, 2026, following unspecified allegations. The suspension came after TMZ reported an incident on an American Airlines flight in May, where a passenger saw disturbing content on Thornton's laptop. Sony confirmed the suspension and recasting while conducting a thorough investigation, but did not provide details.
How it unfolded
- May 2026An incident occurred on an American Airlines flight from Charlotte to L.A., where a passenger saw disturbing content on Thornton's laptop and reported concerns to a flight attendant.
- Sep 1, 2026Sony Pictures Television confirmed Thornton's suspension and announced recasting, citing a thorough investigation into allegations.
- Sep 3, 2026TMZ published photos and details of the chatroom content, and Thornton's attorney stated he was not arrested or charged, and that he was active in suicide-prevention advocacy.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Sony Pictures Television stated: 'We have recently been made aware of allegations concerning Jim Thornton. He has been suspended from Wheel of Fortune and we are recasting while we conduct a thorough investigation.'
- Legal
- Thornton's attorney, Allison Hart, said he 'did not engage in any illegal conduct, was not arrested, and has not been charged with any crime' and that he was visiting chat rooms for suicide-prevention support.
- Witness
- A passenger on the flight told TMZ she saw images and texts that made it appear Thornton was in a chatroom for pedophiles.
Still unverified
The specific nature of the allegations and the content of the chatroom are unconfirmed. TMZ's report is based on a passenger's account, and Thornton's attorney denies any illegal conduct.