Album cover of ‘Looking for a City’ by Jimmy Swaggart

Jimmy Swaggart, the charismatic, but scandal-conflicted, televangelist whose accomplishments included founding a church, a school, musical projects and multiple books, has died at the age of 90.

A report at PJMedia explained he was “one of the most controversial figures among Christian leaders in the late 20th century.”

The death was announced by his family in a Facebook post, which 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. Today was the day he has sung about for decades. He met his beloved Savior and entered the portals of glory. At the same time, we rejoice knowing that we will see him again one day.”

The post quoted 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (KJV): “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

President Donald Trump reacted, saying: “Very sad, Jimmy Swaggart passed away today! He was an incredible Man of Faith and, as our Nation’s longest serving Televangelist, inspired millions with his Great Love of God and Country. Our hearts and prayers are with his wonderful wife Frances, his son Donnie, and their entire family. Jimmy will be deeply missed!”

He started preaching at age 20 in 1955.

“Music was a family affair for Swaggart; his musical cousins included rock-and-roll pioneer Jerry Lee Lewis and country crooner Mickey Gilley. He recorded his first gospel album in 1958, which began a music career that sold over 17 million records and netted him multiple Dove awards,” the report noted.

His ministry during the 1980s reached more than 3,000 stations with his television programming.

He held services in packed stadiums, founded Family Worship Center and a Bible college.

We are lifting up the entire Swaggart family in prayer during this very difficult time. Evangelist Jimmy Swaggart made an eternal impact in our world and will be greatly missed.

– Pastors @SWBilsborough & @ellebils pic.twitter.com/Cb1TqGXl6N

— Great Life Church (@greatlifechurch) July 1, 2025

Televangelist Rev. Jimmy Swaggart dead at 90 — weeks after suffering a heart attack https://t.co/lenoeQzd8E pic.twitter.com/4Ru6qY3P4g

— New York Post (@nypost) July 1, 2025

“His congregation and Bible college were aligned with the Assemblies of God denomination,” the report said.

His scandals hit starting about 1988 when he was photographed with a prostitute, which prompted punishment from the Assemblies of God.

In a tear-filled sermon he said, “I have sinned against you. I beg you to forgive me.”

Years later, the report said, he was stopped by California law enforcement and found to be in the company of another prostitute.

The report said, “Jimmy Swaggart was yet another example of fallen humanity — sometimes with misguided attitudes, heinous sins, and unique theology — serving a perfect [God] in the best way he could. Prayers for his family and loved ones.”