Jim Bakker, who built 'PTL Club' televangelism empire, has died at 86

Oct 6, 2026 · The Associated Press

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

Jim Bakker, who built 'PTL Club' televangelism empire, has died at 86

FILE - Television evangelist Jim Bakker poses in front of the Water Park in Columbia, SC, one of the attractions at his Heritage USA, March 19, 1987.

Jim Bakker, along with his first wife Tammy Faye built an evangelical empire around the hugely successful "The PTL Club" TV show, only to lose it all over a sex scandal and financial crimes.

(Image credit: Lou Krasky)