'Wheel of Fortune' Announcer Jim Thornton Suspended
Longtime 'Wheel of Fortune' announcer Jim Thornton has been suspended by Sony Pictures Television following an investigation into an incident on a commercial flight. While the studio is recasting the role, Thornton's attorney maintains that no illegal conduct occurred.
Why it matters
The suspension of a high-profile media personality highlights the strict conduct policies enforced by major entertainment studios.
Update
9:45 PM PT -- Jim Thornton's attorney tells TMZ ... the announcer "did not engage in any illegal conduct, was not arrested, and has not been charged with any crime. When questioned about the complaint made by a fellow passenger on the flight, law enforcement spoke to him for five minutes or less, immediately determined that no wrongdoing had occurred and told my client he was free to go."
8:43 PM PT -- Jim Thornton just appeared on this evenings pre-taped episode of "Wheel of Fortune."
Jim Thornton -- the longtime "Wheel of Fortune" announcer -- has been suspended by Sony Pictures Television Studios ... TMZ has learned.
The studio tells TMZ ... “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.”
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