Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, known for his controversial ministry and significant impact on religious broadcasting, has passed away at the age of 90. His life was marked by both remarkable achievements and significant scandals.
Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart Passes Away at 90
Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, whose multimillion-dollar ministry and vast audience diminished following his prostitution scandals, has died at the age of 90. The announcement of his death was made on his public Facebook page, although a cause was not immediately provided. Swaggart had been in ill health for some time.
A Captivating Preacher’s Rise and Fall
Born in Louisiana, Swaggart was renowned for his compelling sermons and large following. However, his career faced a significant setback in 1988 when he was caught on camera with a prostitute in New Orleans. This incident was part of a broader pattern of scandals that affected many prominent TV preachers during the late 20th century. Despite the controversies, Swaggart continued to preach for decades, albeit to a smaller audience.
In a tearful sermon in 1988, Swaggart confessed, “I have sinned against you. I beg you to forgive me,” but did not mention the prostitute. He resigned from the Assemblies of God later that year after the church defrocked him for not adhering to their rehabilitation program for moral failure.
From Humble Beginnings to Fame
Swaggart grew up in poverty, the son of a preacher, in a family rich in music. He was musically gifted, playing piano and singing gospel alongside his famous cousins, rock ‘n’ roller Jerry Lee Lewis and country singer Mickey Gilley. At age 8, he claimed to have heard the call of God, which he described as a life-changing experience.
After working in oil fields, he fully dedicated himself to ministry, preaching, and performing gospel music. He launched a radio show and a magazine, eventually moving into television, where his outspoken views garnered him a massive following.
Scandals and Their Consequences
Swaggart’s career was marred by scandals in the late 1980s. He publicly stated that his income was affected by the scandal involving rival televangelist Jim Bakker. In 1989, he was photographed with prostitute Debra Murphree, who claimed he paid her to pose nude. This led to further scrutiny and legal troubles.
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In 1991, he faced additional legal issues when he was detained with another prostitute in California. The fallout from these incidents led to his public ridicule, including impersonations on shows like Saturday Night Live.
Later Years and Legacy
Despite the scandals, Swaggart remained active in his ministry, often joined by his son, Donnie. His radio station broadcast services across 21 states, and he maintained a worldwide audience online. He made few public appearances outside of his church but did participate in significant events, such as the funeral of Louisiana Secretary of State Fox McKeithen in 2005.
In 2022, Swaggart shared memories at a memorial service for his cousin Jerry Lee Lewis.
