US Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart
By Chris Williams
US Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart Dies at 90 After Decades of Evangelical Ministry, Remembered for His Global Reach, Gospel Music, and Controversial Legacy
Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Renowned American televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, who once captivated millions worldwide with his fiery Christian sermons and gospel music, has died at the age of 90. His death was confirmed on Tuesday, 2 July 2025, following a heart attack at a hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
His passing was announced by Jimmy Swaggart Ministries through a heartfelt post on the organisation’s official Facebook page:
“Brother Swaggart has finished his earthly race and entered into the presence of His Saviour, Jesus Christ. For over seven decades, Brother Swaggart poured out his life preaching the gospel, singing songs of the faith, and pointing millions to the saving power of Jesus Christ.”
A Ministry that Reached Millions
At his height in the 1980s, Swaggart led one of the most influential and lucrative ministries in the United States, broadcasting weekly from his Louisiana-based Pentecostal church, the Assemblies of God. His services were aired globally, combining fire-and-brimstone preaching with soulful gospel music, attracting millions of viewers and generating hundreds of millions of dollars in donations annually.
Swaggart’s message resonated deeply with conservative Christian audiences, and he stood shoulder to shoulder with iconic televangelists like Oral Roberts, Pat Robertson, Jerry Falwell, and Jim Bakker.
Notably, Swaggart was a first cousin of music legends Jerry Lee Lewis and Mickey Gilley, making the Swaggart-Lewis-Gilley lineage one of the most unique intersections of faith, rock ’n’ roll, and country music in American history.
Political and Public Tributes
US President Donald Trump expressed his condolences on Truth Social, describing Swaggart as:
“An incredible Man of Faith. He inspired millions with his Great Love of God and Country… Jimmy will be deeply missed!”
Trump’s message reflects the enduring impact Swaggart had among evangelical Christians and conservatives in the United States, even long after his national prominence had faded.
Scandal and Redemption
Swaggart’s illustrious career took a devastating turn in 1987, when he was photographed at a New Orleans motel with a prostitute. The scandal shocked the Christian world and tarnished his reputation overnight.
In 1988, Swaggart delivered a tearful televised confession, watched by millions.
“I have sinned against you, my Lord,” he said, weeping before his congregation and global audience. “I beg you forgive me.”
While he did not go into detail, the confession became one of the most iconic—and controversial—moments in televangelism history. The Assemblies of God defrocked him, officially removing him from ministerial standing.
Despite the public fall from grace, Swaggart continued preaching through his private ministry, albeit with a diminished following. His church, Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge, remained the base for his SonLife Broadcasting Network, which still aired his sermons across satellite and digital platforms.
A Complicated Legacy
Jimmy Swaggart’s legacy is both remarkable and complex.
• He was a pioneer of televised evangelicalism, leveraging media to spread a message of salvation and holiness.
• His musical talents were significant—he released dozens of gospel albums and was known for his moving piano solos.
• His rise and fall became a case study in the dangers of celebrity ministry and the need for accountability in religious leadership.
Though he never fully regained his former stature, Swaggart remained active in ministry until his final years, preaching weekly and maintaining a loyal, if smaller, base of followers.
Remembering Swaggart
Swaggart is survived by his wife Frances, son Donnie Swaggart, and several grandchildren, many of whom have remained active in the family’s ministry.
His funeral and memorial details are expected to be announced by Jimmy Swaggart Ministries in the coming days.
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