Sony Pictures Television Studios terminated Jim Thornton as announcer for "Wheel of Fortune" on Friday, following what the company described as a "thorough investigation" into unspecified allegations.
Thornton, who held the announcer role since 2011, was let go without Sony providing public details about the allegations or the investigation's findings. The studio's statement to media outlets offered no explanation beyond confirming the termination was effective immediately.
The investigation was prompted by an incident in May when Thornton was aboard American Airlines Flight 1276 en route to Los Angeles International Airport. A fellow passenger filed a complaint regarding Thornton's behavior, prompting law enforcement to meet the aircraft upon arrival.
According to Thornton's attorney, when law enforcement questioned him about the complaint, they determined that no wrongdoing had occurred and told him he was free to go. Thornton was not arrested or taken into custody.
"My client did not engage in any illegal conduct, was not arrested and has not been charged with any crime," his attorney told TMZ.
Sony suspended Thornton three days before announcing his termination. The studio has not explained what prompted the investigation announcement in early September, nearly three and a half months after the May incident.
Thornton replaced Charlie O'Donnell, the show's original announcer, after O'Donnell's death in 2010. His 13-year tenure made him a familiar voice to millions of viewers. Sony has indicated it is recasting the announcer position.
Thornton's attorney said the studio has not responded to requests for additional clarification on the investigation's scope or conclusions.
