David Bridges
Jim Thornton from ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Facebook Profile Disappears After ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Dismissal
Published | Updated
Jim Thornton has seen his Facebook account vanish shortly after his termination from “Wheel of Fortune.” Reports indicate that the former announcer has also been removed from the official social media platforms of the game show.
As of Friday evening, Thornton’s Facebook page is no longer publicly accessible. Earlier that day, it showcased behind-the-scenes glimpses and videos featuring Jim on the set of the beloved game show.
The Facebook profile featured various images of Jim during school visits and personal moments with his wife and son.
Sources confirm that Jim’s name and images have been expunged from the official “Wheel of Fortune” social media profiles following Sony Pictures Television’s decision to terminate his contract amid serious allegations.
Reports indicate that Sony initiated an investigation after learning of an incident involving Thornton on an American Airlines flight in May. A nearby passenger expressed concern after Thornton sent messages that included phrases such as “cute boys” and “hot little girl,” prompting them to inform a flight attendant.
The images acquired by TMZ reveal that Thornton used the alias “NicholasB77” on a website his attorney claims he mistakenly accessed while attempting to reach 988lifeline.org, a site dedicated to helping individuals in distress.
Nevertheless, the images indicate that Thornton remained in the chat for nearly an hour and allegedly discussed concealing the site’s name from those around him. He also mentioned another website and expressed plans to explore its galleries.
Shortly after, photos show Thornton on his phone, appearing to review the results of a Google A.I. search, after a flight attendant allegedly instructed him to close his laptop. According to the passenger, Thornton appeared anxious following the encounter.
As previously reported, the flight attendant notified the captain, who arranged for law enforcement to meet Thornton upon landing at LAX. He was interrogated but faced no charges or arrests.
Thornton’s legal counsel has stated that being in the chat was not illegal and that no child pornography was involved.
