Jim Thornton Suspended from 'Wheel of Fortune' Amid Allegations

<figure><img alt="jim thornton" src="https://thedailybeast-thedailybeast-prod.web.arc-cdn.net/resizer/v2/NN72LZQT6RCGDOQC3TMSRMUAQE.jpg?auth=8644f6823fbd01b802586aa19924904fc114a56c8d14bcd551010792ed25fa46&amp;smart=true&amp;width=2400&amp;height=1350" /><figcaption>Eric McCandless / Disney via Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p>Jim Thornton, the longtime announcer for <i>Wheel of Fortune</i>, has been suspended following allegations related to his behavior on a commercial flight. This information was reported by <a href="https://www.tmz.com/2026/09/01/jim-thornton-suspended/" rel="" target="_self" title="https://www.tmz.com/2026/09/01/jim-thornton-suspended/">TMZ</a>.</p><p>On September 1, 2026, Sony Pictures Television Studios issued a statement indicating that they had become aware of allegations concerning Thornton and that he has been suspended while a thorough investigation is conducted. They did not provide further details.</p><p>According to sources cited by TMZ, the alleged incident occurred in May when a passenger raised concerns about Thornton's behavior. Thornton was reportedly wearing a <i>Wheel of Fortune</i> jacket at the time of the incident and was questioned by law enforcement after deplaning, as the pilot had called ahead for authorities to meet him upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport.</p><p>American Airlines confirmed that Thornton's Flight 1276 was met by law enforcement upon arrival due to concerns reported by a customer onboard.</p><p>Thornton began his role as the announcer on <i>Wheel of Fortune</i> in 2011, succeeding Charlie O’Donnell, who held the position from 1975 to 1980 and again from 1989 until his passing in 2010. Pat Sajak hosted the show from 1981 until his retirement in 2024, with Ryan Seacrest taking over as host in 2024, alongside longtime co-host Vanna White.</p></p>