American Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart Dies at 90, Ministry Pays Tribute

Renowned American televangelist and gospel music artist, Jimmy Swaggart, has passed away at the age of 90.

Swaggart died on Tuesday while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His death comes weeks after he reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest on June 15. Though initial medical intervention kept him alive, he never fully recovered.

A towering figure in American evangelism, Swaggart was widely known for his fiery sermons, emotionally charged broadcasts, and gospel albums that sold millions of copies. His crusades in the 1980s drew massive crowds and global attention, making him one of the most recognizable televangelists in the United States.

Announcing his passing, his ministry said, “Today, our hearts are heavy as we share that Brother Swaggart has finished his earthly race and entered into the presence of His Savior, 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 and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.”

“He was not just a preacher—he was a worshipper, a warrior, and a witness to the grace and mercy of God,” the tribute added.

Swaggart’s ministry, however, was not without controversy. In 1988, at the height of his career, he publicly confessed to committing moral failings, following reports linking him to a sex worker. The confession, delivered through tears, marked a dramatic fall from grace. Church elders recommended he step down and undergo counseling, but Swaggart declined, resulting in his defrocking. Just three months later, he returned to the pulpit, appealing to followers for financial support to keep his ministry afloat.

Despite the scandal, Swaggart continued preaching for decades and remained a polarizing yet influential figure in Christian broadcasting.

In his 1977 autobiography, To Cross a River, co-authored with Robert Paul Lamb, Swaggart shared that he felt called to ministry at age eight. He later married Frances Anderson at 17, and together they built a ministry empire.

Jimmy Swaggart is survived by his wife, Frances; their son, Pastor Donnie Swaggart; three grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.