Jimmy Swaggart, a well-known American televangelist, has died at the age of 90. He passed away weeks after suffering a heart attack at his home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on June 15. His family confirmed that he had been in intensive care prior to his death, which was announced on his public Facebook page on July 1.
“For over seven decades, Brother Swaggart poured out his life preaching the gospel, singing songs of the faith, and pointing millions to the saving power of Jesus Christ and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit,” his church, Family Worship Center, said in a statement.
Among the many tributes was former President Donald Trump, who honored the late pastor on his social media platform, Truth Social:
"Very sad, Jimmy Swaggart passed away today! He was an incredible Man of Faith and, as our Nation's longest-serving Televangelist, inspired millions with his Great Love of God and Country. Our hearts and prayers are with his wonderful wife Frances, his son Donnie, and their entire family. Jimmy will be deeply missed!"
Swaggart was a central figure in the rise of Pentecostal televangelism during the 20th century. His emotionally charged preaching style and gospel music resonated with audiences worldwide. By the 1980s, his sermons were broadcast in more than 100 countries, and his ministry generated over $140 million annually.
He began his ministry in the 1960s and became a symbol of American revivalist preaching. His church in Baton Rouge could seat 7,000 worshipers, and his services were known for their charismatic expressions of faith.
However, his legacy is also marked by controversy—now being revisited on social media.
In 1988, Swaggart’s ministry was rocked by scandal when he was exposed for soliciting a sex worker. The incident was amplified by his televised confession, where he tearfully told his congregation, “I have sinned against you, my Lord.”
Three years later, he was again found with a sex worker, this time in California. His response was unapologetic: “The Lord told me it’s flat none of your business,” he said during a broadcast.
These events caused a significant rift within his ministry and among followers. The scandals were made even more controversial due to Swaggart’s previous public criticism of other Christian leaders involved in similar moral failings.
Swaggart also drew criticism for his theological views, including remarks in which he described Catholicism and Judaism as "illegitimate." Despite this, he maintained a loyal base and continued preaching and broadcasting well into his later years.
