Jim Thornton is 86’d from Wheel of Fortune. TMZ has learned that Sony Pictures Television Studios dropped the hammer Friday afternoon. A Sony spokesperson tells us: “Following a thorough investigation, Jim Thornton’s employment with Wheel of Fortune has been terminated, effective immediately.”
Thornton was flying American Airlines to Los Angeles in May when a passenger spotted him on what she believed to be a chatroom for pedophiles. Disturbing messages mentioned “couple of cute boys and a hot little girl,” as well as “All-you-can-eat Boyfett.” There were also several references to “CP”, often online shorthand for child porn.
A passenger spotted his screen, notified a flight attendant who alerted the pilot, who ultimately contacted authorities. Law enforcement met the plane when it landed at LAX. Authorities questioned Thornton about the incident, but he was ultimately free to leave.
