Wheel of Fortune Announcer Jim Thornton Fired After Probe

Jim Thornton, the longtime announcer for the popular game show Wheel of Fortune, has been dismissed from his role, effective immediately. The decision was confirmed by a company spokesperson, who said that a thorough investigation had been completed and that Thornton's employment was terminated.

Thornton had been suspended from the show earlier this week while the production company looked into unspecified allegations. At the time of the suspension, the company stated that it was recasting the position as part of its inquiry.

The development follows a report that Thornton was questioned by authorities at Los Angeles International Airport in May after a fellow passenger on a flight from Charlotte claimed to have seen images and text messages on his laptop that appeared to be from a chatroom for pedophiles. The passenger said she alerted a flight attendant, and the captain reportedly notified law enforcement. Thornton was allowed to leave after questioning.

In response, Thornton's lawyer said her client had become active in suicide-prevention advocacy after losing a close family member to suicide two years ago, and that he had been visiting chat rooms to offer support to people experiencing suicidal thoughts.

No permanent replacement for Thornton has been announced.