Televangelist Jim Bakker Dies at Age 86

Jim Bakker, a prominent and controversial figure in American Christian television, has died at the age of 86. His wife, Lori Bakker, announced his passing on Monday night via the official Facebook page of "The Jim Bakker Show," describing him as a pioneer of gospel broadcasting who remained dedicated to his ministry throughout his life.

Bakker rose to national prominence in the 1970s alongside his first wife, Tammy Faye Bakker, as co-hosts of the popular program "The PTL Club." In 1978, he established Heritage USA, a massive Christian theme park and resort in South Carolina that attracted millions of visitors at its peak. During the mid-1980s, his ministry reached an estimated 13 million households annually. However, his career was later marked by significant controversy and a prison sentence related to financial misconduct.

His son, Jay Bakker, acknowledged the complex nature of their relationship in a public statement. He requested privacy to process his grief, noting the difficulty of navigating both personal loss and the public nature of his father's life and legacy.