Sony Pictures Suspends Longtime "Wheel of Fortune" Announcer Jim Thornton Amid Investigation

Sony Pictures Television announced that Jim Thornton, who has been the voice of "Wheel of Fortune" since 2011, has been suspended pending a "thorough investigation" into allegations made against him. The studio said it was "recently made aware of allegations concerning Jim Thornton" and that the show is being recast while the probe continues.

According to airline records, the incident occurred on May 14 aboard American Airlines Flight 1276, when a passenger reported a concern to a flight attendant. Law enforcement met the aircraft upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport, and officers questioned Thornton, who was wearing a "Wheel" jacket at the time, before releasing him.

Sony Pictures Television did not disclose the nature of the allegations. Thornton, who succeeded longtime announcer Charlie O'Donnell after his death, has also provided voice work for other television programs and films, including a brief stint on "The Price Is Right" and a role in the animated movie "Monsters, Inc."