Entertainment

Sony fires Wheel of Fortune announcer Jim Thornton following investigation

The studio terminated Thornton after flight-related allegations, while an interim announcer replaces his voiceovers.

Updated Sep 4, 2026 · 23:18 UTC2 reports

The short version

Sony Pictures Television terminated longtime Wheel of Fortune announcer Jim Thornton effective immediately following an internal probe.[Fox News · Variety]
The move followed media reports of an in-flight incident in May involving passenger complaints over his laptop screen, though his attorney stated police found no wrongdoing and filed no charges.[Fox News · Variety]
An interim voice actor has re-recorded Thornton's lines for the upcoming season premiere on September 14 while recasting continues.[Fox News · Variety]

Sony Pictures Television terminated Jim Thornton's employment as the announcer of 'Wheel of Fortune' immediately following an internal inquiry.[Fox News · Variety]
The termination followed reports regarding a May 14 American Airlines flight where law enforcement met the plane at LAX after a passenger raised concerns about Thornton's laptop screen.[Fox News · Variety]
Thornton's lawyer stated he committed no unlawful acts, was questioned briefly by authorities, and was released without arrest or criminal charges.[Fox News]
An attorney representing Thornton stated his online chat activity was tied to suicide-prevention efforts following a family loss.[Variety]
An interim announcer has revoiced Thornton's segments in advance of the program's September 14 return.[Variety]

The studio has not publicly named a permanent replacement for the announcer position.[Variety]
Published accounts conflict on whether Thornton officially started as the game show's permanent announcer in 2010 or 2011.[Fox News · Variety]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.