Sony Pictures Television has suspended Jim Thornton, the long-time announcer of the television game show 'Wheel of Fortune', effective September 2, 2026, according to an official company press release. The suspension follows unspecified allegations against Thornton, who has held the announcer position since 2011, per Sony Pictures Television's official statement.
In response to the situation, Sony Pictures Television has initiated an internal investigation and announced plans to temporarily recast the announcer role. A spokesperson for Sony Pictures Television stated: 'We are aware of the allegations and have placed Jim Thornton on suspension while we conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.' The specific nature of the allegations against Jim Thornton has not been disclosed by Sony Pictures Television.
Reps for Jim Thornton have not yet issued a public statement regarding the suspension. Production staff and viewers of 'Wheel of Fortune' will experience a change in the show's audio presentation as Sony moves to temporarily recast the announcer position.
This personnel action follows a similar industry trend where production companies have suspended long-term talent pending investigations, such as the 2021 departure of Mike Richards from 'Jeopardy!' following controversy.
