Wheel of Fortune is making another change as the iconic game show has said goodbye to another prominent figure behind the camera. The news comes weeks after announcer Jim Thornton was fired. Now, veteran stage manager Jimmy McGuire is moving on.
Jimmy McGuire is leaving Wheel of Fortune
Jimmy McGuire announced his departure during the October 23 episode of Wheel of Fortune. Hosts Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White invited him onto the stage. The audience welcomed him with loud cheers and applause.
He wore a jacket celebrating the show’s 40th season. “You’re the best!” McGuire told the hosts during his farewell, and both White and Seacrest thanked McGuire for his years of work. White said, “It’s been a pleasure. Thank you for making us look so good, counting us down numerous times.”
McGuire has worked behind the scenes on the show for many years. He also serves as stage manager for Jeopardy! It remains unclear whether McGuire is leaving that series too.
His departure comes after another major change to Wheel of Fortune, as announcer Jim Thornton was fired from the show last month. Thornton’s exit followed an alleged incident that occurred in May 2026 on American Airlines Flight 1267 to Los Angeles International Airport. Though his lawyer stressed after the incident that law enforcement had spoken to Thornton for only a brief time after the incident and released him without charging him with any crime, he was suspended and ultimately let go from the show.
Thornton’s absence has affected episodes already filmed for broadcast. When Season 44 premiered, fans heard a different announcer. Some fans believed Jimmy McGuire was providing the replacement voice. However, the show has not officially confirmed the announcer’s identity.
Wheel of Fortune airs weekdays, with local schedules varying. New episodes are also available to stream on Hulu and Peacock.
