'Wheel of Fortune' announcer's lawyer denounces 'defamatory' report
USA Today • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Jim Thornton, longtime announcer for "Wheel of Fortune," was suspended following an internal investigation prompted by a complaint made on a May flight to Los Angeles, though no criminal charges were filed against him.
- Thornton's lawyer called TMZ's report about the incident "defamatory," clarifying that Thornton was not arrested, did not engage in illegal conduct, and was quickly cleared by law enforcement after a brief questioning.
- The internal investigation and suspension reportedly began after TMZ sought comment on the article, according to Thornton's lawyer.
- Sony Pictures Television confirmed Thornton's suspension and stated they are recasting his role while conducting a thorough investigation, but declined to provide further details.
- Thornton has been the announcer for "Wheel of Fortune" since 2011 and also serves as the announcer for "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune."
