Jim Bakker Dies: Televangelist Was 86

Jim Bakker, the televangelist who built a media empire with former wife Tammy Faye Bakker, has died. He was 86.

In a social media post, Bakker’s wife Lori Bakker shared the news of his death.

“It is with a broken heart that I share that my beloved husband, Jim Bakker, went home to be with the Lord this evening,” read the Instagram post from Monday, October 5.

The statement continued, “For 66 years, Jim gave his life to preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was a pioneer of Christian television, but to me, he was my husband, my best friend, and the man I was honored to walk beside through so many seasons of life and ministry.”

Lori noted that “Jim loved people deeply,” adding, “He loved this ministry, and he loved the friends and partners who stood with him throughout the years. Even in his final days, his heart was still for the work of God and for the Gospel to continue reaching the world.”

“Our family is grieving and we ask for your prayers and privacy during this time. Jim finished his race with faith. His voice, his vision, and his legacy will never be forgotten.”

Bakker founded The PTL Club, which he co-hosted with Tammy Faye from 1974 to 1987. Most recently, he was hosting The Jim Bakker Show on digital platforms.

Andrew Garfield portrayed Jim Bakker in 2021’s The Eyes of Tammy Faye. Jessica Chastain played Tammy Faye, for which she won an Oscar as Best Actress in 2022. Kevin Spacey also played Bakker in the 1990 NBC television film Fall from Grace.