Popular American televangelist Jimmy Swaggart has died at the age of 90, just weeks after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Louisiana on June 15. Known for his powerful sermons, gospel music, and global television broadcasts, Swaggart was a leading voice in American evangelical circles for decades.
He rose to fame as the founder of the SonLife Broadcasting Network and pastor of the Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge. His preaching style, often fiery and emotional, drew millions of followers. Swaggart also used music to spread his message, recording several gospel albums throughout his career. One of his most notable achievements came in 1981 when he was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Gospel Performance for his album Worship.
Swaggart was a cousin of music legend Jerry Lee Lewis and often blended gospel music into his ministry. At the height of his popularity in the 1980s, he filled stadiums, raised over $100 million annually, and became one of the most recognizable televangelists in the world. He also had public rivalries with fellow preachers, such as Jim Bakker and Oral Roberts.
However, his legacy was shaken by scandals. In 1988, Swaggart accused another preacher of infidelity, which led to a private investigation that exposed his own involvement with a prostitute. This caused a nationwide uproar and led to his removal from the Assemblies of God denomination.
Although he publicly confessed and stepped back temporarily, another scandal followed in 1991. These events damaged his reputation and shifted the course of his once-dominant ministry.
Despite the controversies, Swaggart continued to preach and broadcast from his Baton Rouge church. While his public influence faded, he maintained a loyal group of followers until his final days.
Swaggart is remembered as a gifted preacher and musician whose life was marked by both spiritual passion and personal struggles.
