Ofcom has imposed a £150,000 fine on the religious channel Word Network following claims in two episodes of the programme Peter Popoff Ministries that a "miracle water" product could cure cancer, the media regulator announced on Tuesday.
The fine follows the channel's breach of broadcasting regulations.
Ofcom said the episodes, hosted by American televangelist Peter Popoff, made "potentially harmful claims" by promoting the water as a remedy for serious health conditions and financial struggles.
"Ofcom was particularly concerned that the programmes repeatedly featured statements and testimonials suggesting the water could cure serious illnesses, including cancer," the regulator said.
In 2023, Ofcom ruled that the programme violated the Broadcasting Code, which mandates that religious broadcasts must not exploit audiences' vulnerabilities or promote products during programmes.
Ofcom found that the claims surrounding the "Miracle Spring Water" went beyond religious expression and could potentially mislead viewers.
"While we respect the broadcaster's and audience's rights to freedom of expression and religion, we considered that the claims made went beyond proclamations of faith," Ofcom added.
The regulator also issued directives for the channel to prevent further harm to viewers, including a ban on re-broadcasting the episodes and a requirement to air a statement acknowledging Ofcom’s findings.
The controversial May 10, 2023 episode featured testimonials from guests who claimed the water helped cure lung cancer, resolve financial difficulties, and alleviate other health issues.
On May 9, 2023, another episode promoted the water's supposed benefits for conditions such as drug addiction, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Ofcom noted that both episodes included pre-recorded segments detailing how viewers could order the product.
In its defense, Word Network argued that Popoff's "Miracle Spring Water" broadcasts had aired without issue for years.
The channel also criticised Ofcom's decision, accusing the regulator of "double standards" for permitting nudity and pornography on other platforms while penalizing a "wholesome religious channel".
This marks the latest in a series of penalties imposed by Ofcom on religious broadcasters, including £25,000 fines for Loveworld and Bauer Radio in 2023.
Previously, Ofcom revoked RT UK's licence following fines for impartiality breaches.
Premier has reached out to Peter Popoff Ministries for comment.
