Wheel of Fortune Announcer Suspended Over Flight Allegations

Jim Thornton, the longtime announcer for "Wheel of Fortune," has been suspended from the game show while Sony Pictures Television investigates allegations stemming from an incident on a commercial flight in May. The studio confirmed the suspension on September 1, 2026, and stated it is recasting the role during a "thorough investigation." The incident in question occurred on May 14, 2026, aboard American Airlines Flight 1276. According to a statement from the airline, the flight was met by law enforcement upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport following concerns reported by a customer onboard. Sources indicate that a passenger complained to a flight attendant about Thornton's behavior, prompting the pilot to request that officers meet the aircraft at the gate. Thornton's attorney has denied any wrongdoing on his client's behalf. In a statement, the lawyer said Thornton "did not engage in any illegal conduct, was not arrested, and has not been charged with any crime." The attorney added that law enforcement spoke with Thornton for "five minutes or less," determined no wrongdoing occurred, and told him he was free to go.