A shake up has unfolded behind the scenes at Wheel of Fortune.
Sony Pictures Television suspended announcer Jim Thornton amid unspecified allegations and is reportedly searching for a replacement.
Since joining Wheel of Fortune as its announcer in 2011, the 61-year-old television announcer has remained a familiar voice on the long-running game show.
He is now facing suspension as Sony Pictures Television Studios investigates allegations involving him.
Sony Pictures Television gave a statement to multiple outlets, on September 1 saying, “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,” the studio confirmed but did not specify the nature of the allegations.
The suspension reportedly came after an alleged incident on an American Airlines flight in May, but what actually happened is still unclear.
“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 has not named Jim or provide any further insight into the nature of the alleged incident.