Jim Thornton’s longtime run as the voice of Wheel of Fortune comes to an unexpected end after Sony decided to fires the veteran announcer after the initial suspension.
A spokesperson from the company came forward and shared a statement with multiple outlets, stating, “Following a thorough investigation, Jim Thornton’s employment with Wheel of Fortune has been terminated, effective immediately.”
The announcer was suspended Tuesday as the company confirmed that an investigation into the matter was underway.
“We have recently been made aware of allegations concerning Jim Thornton,” Sony Pictures Television said to outlets.
“He has been suspended from Wheel of Fortune and we are recasting while we conduct a thorough investigation,” the studio confirmed but did not specify the nature of the allegations at the time.
Fans will hear a new voice when the upcoming season premieres September 14, with Jim’s interim replacement taking over the announcer role on Wheel of Fortune and Celebrity Wheel of Fortunereturning October 2.
This decision reportedly came after an alleged incident on an American Airlines flight in May.
“On May 14, American Airlines Flight 1276 was met by law enforcement upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) following concerns reported by a customer onboard,” the airline shared with People.
But the airline did not named Jim.