Disgraced US televangelist Jim Bakker dies at 86

Jim Bakker, a polarizing figure in American televangelism whose career was derailed by criminal convictions and moral scandals, died at 86. The televangelist rose to prominence as co-founder of The PTL Club alongside his then-wife Tammy Faye, which at its peak commanded a substantial audience and financial following across the United States.

Bakker's ministry unraveled in the late 1980s when he faced criminal charges related to fraud and conspiracy. He was convicted and imprisoned for his financial dealings, marking a dramatic fall from his position as one of America's most recognizable religious broadcasters. Beyond the fraud charges, Bakker's reputation suffered further damage from allegations of sexual misconduct that emerged during the scandal.

The PTL Club, which stood for "Praise The Lord," had built a sprawling entertainment and religious complex, but the organization crumbled following Bakker's legal troubles. The collapse of the ministry became emblematic of broader concerns about financial accountability and ethical standards within televangelist circles during that era.

Bakker's legacy remains deeply contested, with his conviction and imprisonment serving as a watershed moment in how American religious broadcasting and its financial practices came to be scrutinized. His case contributed to increased skepticism toward televangelism among both believers and the general public.