Jimmy Swaggart, a prominent figure in 20th-century televangelism, has died at the age of 90. Known for his global ministry, gospel music, and public scandals, he passed away on 1 July 2025, two weeks after suffering a cardiac arrest.
Born on 15 March 1935 in Ferriday, Louisiana, Jimmy Swaggart gained prominence during the 1970s and 1980s as a Pentecostal preacher and gospel musician. He was a cousin of musicians Jerry Lee Lewis and Mickey Gilley.
His sermons reached millions through syndicated television programmes, and his gospel albums sold more than 15 million copies, earning Grammy nominations and national attention.
Jimmy Swaggart's Cause of Death: What Happened in His Final Days
According to Jimmy Swaggart Ministries, the televangelist was rushed to Baton Rouge General Medical Center after suffering a cardiac arrest at home on 15 June and died there on 1 July 2025, surrounded by close family members.
In an Instagram post, the ministry shared: 'Brother Swaggart has finished his earthly race and entered into the presence of His Saviour, Jesus Christ... Today was the day he has sung about for decades.'
The family also noted that he had been in declining health in recent years.
Jimmy Swaggart's Scandals: Prostitution Allegations and Church Fallout
Swaggart's public image was significantly affected by two prostitution-related scandals. The first occurred in 1988 when he was discovered with a sex worker in New Orleans. Following the incident, he delivered a televised statement acknowledging misconduct and was subsequently defrocked by the Assemblies of God.
In 1991, he was involved in a second incident in California, also involving a sex worker. This led to further consequences, including the termination of several broadcast contracts and a reduction in his national television presence.
How Jimmy Swaggart Rebuilt His Ministry After the Scandals
Following these incidents, Swaggart continued operating outside the Assemblies of God denomination. He maintained an independent ministry based in Baton Rouge, where he launched the SonLife Broadcasting Network and remained active in weekly services at the Family Worship Centre.
He also revived Jimmy Swaggart Bible College, focusing on Pentecostal doctrine and training for ministry. Despite reduced visibility in mainstream media, Swaggart retained a consistent international audience through his network and live-streamed programming.
Public Reaction to Jimmy Swaggart's Death and His Controversial Legacy
Following news of his death, tributes were issued by family and ministry representatives. His wife, Frances Swaggart, his son Donnie, and other family members were noted as his surviving relatives. Ministry statements described his life as one devoted to preaching, music, and evangelism.
Public responses to Swaggart's legacy remain mixed. While some remember him as a leading figure in modern televangelism, others associate his name with the controversies that led to a decline in influence during the 1990s.
Jimmy Swaggart's Legacy in Evangelical Broadcasting and Gospel Music
Jimmy Swaggart played a key role in expanding the reach of Pentecostal messages through mass media. His approach combined preaching with gospel music, attracting a large following in the United States and internationally. Although his career faced significant setbacks, he continued to lead religious broadcasts until shortly before his death.
His passing closes a long chapter in the history of American televangelism, marked by both considerable influence and notable controversy.
