Televangelist Jim Bakker, Once Central to PTL Scandal, Dies at 86

Jim Bakker, the once-prominent televangelist whose PTL program reached millions, died at 86, a fact announced by his second wife Lori on the show’s Instagram page. Bakker and his first wife Tammy Faye Bakker became a household name, preaching that Christian belief and financial success could coexist and even creating a resort-style community in North Carolina. In 1987 his reputation shattered when he acknowledged a sexual liaison with secretary Jessica Hahn, leading to a federal indictment and a five-year prison sentence.

Tammy Faye divorced him during his incarceration and later remarried. After serving his term, Bakker revived his television ministry and later married Lori, who described him as her husband and best friend. His death marks the end of a tumultuous public life that blended religious broadcasting with scandal.