Rumors about the death of Jim Bakker, the controversial televangelist who once dominated the airwaves in the 1980s with his PTL (“Praise the Lord”) ministry, have been circulating, causing confusion among followers.
However, these rumors are unfounded. Jim Bakker is very much alive and continues to be an active figure in the world of televangelism as of 2024.
Born on January 2, 1940, in Muskegon, Michigan, Jim Bakker rose to fame alongside his first wife, Tammy Faye LaValley. The duo began as itinerant preachers in the early 1960s before joining Pat Robertson’s Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) in 1965. Here, Bakker’s career took off as he hosted the children’s show “Come On Over” and later “The 700 Club,” which cemented his status as a prominent televangelist.
The PTL Empire and Its Downfall
In 1974, the Bakkers founded the PTL network and Heritage USA, a sprawling Christian theme park in Charlotte, North Carolina. By the mid-1980s, their empire was worth $125 million. However, allegations of sexual misconduct and financial fraud led to Bakker’s dramatic fall from grace. In 1987, he resigned from PTL amidst scandal and was subsequently convicted of fraud and conspiracy, receiving a 45-year prison sentence. He served less than five years before being released on parole in 1994.
Rebuilding His Life and Career
After his release, Bakker remarried in 1998 to Lori Graham, a Pentecostal minister. Together, they launched “The Jim Bakker Show” in Branson, Missouri. Despite his past, Bakker found a new audience and continued to preach, focusing on themes like the apocalypse and redemption.
Current Status and Activities
As of 2024, at 84 years old, Jim Bakker continues to broadcast “The Jim Bakker Show” from Morningside USA in Blue Eye, Missouri. His show is available on multiple platforms, including Roku, DirecTV, and DISH Network, potentially reaching an audience of 1.6 billion people. Bakker remains a controversial figure, recently drawing attention for selling colloidal silver supplements as a COVID-19 “cure,” which led to legal actions by state attorneys general.
Despite these controversies, Bakker’s influence in televangelism persists, demonstrating his ability to adapt and continue his ministry despite numerous setbacks.
Key Milestones in Jim Bakker’s Life
Date | Event | Summary |
---|---|---|
January 2, 1940 | Birth | Jim Bakker was born in Muskegon, Michigan. |
1961 | Marriage to Tammy Faye LaValley | Bakker married his first wife and began itinerant preaching. |
1965 | Joined CBN | Bakker joined Pat Robertson’s network and became a TV host. |
1974 | Founded PTL Network | Bakker and his wife launched the PTL ministry and Heritage USA. |
1987 | Resigned from PTL | Amid scandals, Bakker stepped down from his position. |
1989-1994 | Imprisonment | Bakker served time for fraud and conspiracy. |
1998 | Remarriage and new show | Married Lori Graham and launched “The Jim Bakker Show.” |
2020 | Legal issues | Faced lawsuits for selling unproven COVID-19 treatments. |
2024 | Current status | Continues to host his show and remains active in televangelism. |
Conclusion
Jim Bakker, despite his fall from grace and numerous controversies, remains a significant figure in televangelism. As of 2024, he continues to influence a large audience through his broadcasting and religious messages. His story is one of resilience, controversy, and enduring faith, reflecting his complex and often contentious legacy.
FAQs About Jim Bakker
Is Jim Bakker Still Alive?
Yes, Jim Bakker is still alive and continues to host “The Jim Bakker Show.”
What is Jim Bakker Known For?
He is known for his PTL ministry, the Heritage USA theme park, and his significant legal troubles in the late 1980s.
What Recent Controversies Has Jim Bakker Been Involved In?
In 2020, he faced lawsuits for selling colloidal silver as a COVID-19 “cure.”
What Is Jim Bakker Doing Now?
As of 2024, he continues to host his television show from Morningside USA in Blue Eye, Missouri.
Note:This post was written and edited by Ethan Garcia, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.