Wheel of Fortune announcer Jim Thornton has been terminated from the long-running game show following an internal investigation, producer Sony Pictures Television confirmed. The studio said Thornton's employment ended immediately, though it did not disclose the nature of the investigation or the reasons for his dismissal.
"Following a thorough investigation, Jim Thornton's employment with Wheel of Fortune has been terminated, effective immediately," Sony Pictures TV said in a statement. According to people familiar with the matter, Thornton will not be heard when the show returns for its new season. Thornton had served as the show's announcer, a role that involves introducing hosts and contestants and providing voice-over commentary during gameplay.
The firing comes amid what sources described as new details emerging about Thornton's suspension, though the specific circumstances remain undisclosed by the studio. Thornton's attorney has reportedly denounced at least one report about the situation as defamatory, suggesting a dispute over the characterization of events. One outlet described the situation as a routine flight that turned into a career crisis, though no official confirmation of that account has been provided.
Wheel of Fortune, one of television's longest-running syndicated programs, has undergone several transitions in recent years. The show features contestants solving word puzzles to win cash and prizes, with the announcer playing a supporting but recognizable role in each episode. Thornton's departure marks a significant change to the show's on-air lineup, though Sony has not yet announced a replacement or how the announcer role will be handled going forward.
The termination adds to a series of personnel changes in the game show industry, where behind-the-scenes conduct has increasingly come under scrutiny. Sony's statement emphasized that its decision followed a thorough investigation, suggesting the studio took time to examine the matter before reaching its conclusion. The show is expected to continue production for its upcoming season with adjustments to accommodate Thornton's absence.