Jim Thornton, the announcer for the game show Wheel of Fortune since 2011, has been suspended from his role, Sony Pictures Television confirmed today. The studio stated that it was made aware of allegations concerning Thornton and is now conducting a thorough investigation, with his role being recast.
The suspension is reportedly connected to an alleged incident that occurred on an American Airlines flight in May. An American Airlines spokesperson confirmed that law enforcement met a flight upon its arrival in Los Angeles on May 14, following concerns reported by a customer onboard.
Thornton's attorney told TMZ that his client 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 to Thornton for a brief period, determined no wrongdoing had occurred, and released him.