Jim Thornton fired from Wheel of Fortune by Sony

Sony Pictures Television has terminated Jim Thornton, the longtime announcer for the game show ‘Wheel of Fortune’, following an internal investigation into his online activities. The decision follows allegations that Thornton accessed a chatroom described as being for individuals with pedophilic interests while aboard an American Airlines flight in May.

The incident was reportedly brought to light after a passenger on a flight from Charlotte to Los Angeles observed disturbing messages on Thornton’s laptop screen. Photos allegedly showing the chatroom content, which included inappropriate references to children, were subsequently shared by media outlets. Following the report, Thornton was met by law enforcement upon landing at Los Angeles International Airport; however, he was questioned and released without being charged with any crime.

Thornton’s attorney, Allison Hart, has denied any illegal conduct, stating that her client was misdirected to the forum while engaging in suicide-prevention advocacy. She explained that Thornton frequently visits suicide-prevention sites and was sent a link to a forum with a similar URL. Sony has announced it is currently recasting the role to prepare for the upcoming season.