Jim Bakker, a televangelist known for his scandals and preachings, has died at the age of 86, as announced by his widow, Lori Bakker, on Monday. In a post on 'The Jim Bakker Show' Facebook page, she expressed her sorrow, stating, 'It is with a broken heart that I share that my beloved husband, Jim Bakker, went home to be with the Lord this evening.' Lori Bakker highlighted her husband's commitment to preaching the Gospel for 66 years and described him as a pioneer of Christian television.
Bakker gained prominence after founding 'The PTL Club,' a Christian television show he co-hosted with his first wife, Tammy Faye Bakker, from 1974 to 1989. Their ventures included the PTL Satellite Network and the Heritage USA theme park, which attracted millions of visitors before closing in 1989.
His reputation was marred in 1987 when it was revealed that he made a $279,000 hush-money payment to church secretary Jessica Hahn, who accused him of rape, a claim Bakker denied, admitting to consensual sex.
Lori Bakker's statement continued, 'Jim loved people deeply. 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.' She requested prayers and privacy for the family during their time of grief, stating, 'Jim finished his race with faith. His voice, his vision, and his legacy will never be forgotten.'
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