Tammy Faye's Ex-Husband, Televangelist Jim Bakker, Dies at 86 | Just Jared

Televangelist Jim Bakker has passed away at 86.

Jim rose to fame in the 1970s with his Christian television empire that he created with then-wife Tammy Faye Bakker. It all collapsed in the late 80s amid a scandal and Jim was sentenced to 45 year in prison after being convicted of fraud and conspiracy. He only served about five years.

Tammy Faye and Jim, who shared two children, split up and they both remarried. She passed away in 2007 from cancer. He married Lori, who shared the news of his passing.

Jim died on Monday night, October 5.

It is with a broken heart that I share that my beloved husband, Jim Bakker, went home to be with the Lord this evening.

For 66 years, Jim gave his life to preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was a pioneer of Christian television, but to me, he was my husband, my best friend, and the man I was honored to walk beside through so many seasons of life and ministry.

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.

Lori asked for privacy in her statement.

Our family is grieving and we ask for your prayers and privacy during this time.

Jim finished his race with faith. His voice, his vision, and his legacy will never be forgotten.

The 2021 movie The Eyes of Tammy Faye followed the creation of their empire and their downfall, with Jessica Chastain as Tammy Faye and Andrew Garfield as Jim. The movie won an Oscar for Best Actress.

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