Jimmy Swaggart, a renowned US televangelist whose ministry once captivated millions globally, has died at the age of 90. Swaggart passed away following a heart attack in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he had been hospitalized since June 15. His family confirmed his death, noting his decades-long dedication to preaching and spreading the gospel.

Rise and Fall of a Ministry Empire

Swaggart's journey into televangelism began in the 1960s, eventually transforming into a media empire that reached over 100 countries. By the 1980s, his ministry was generating $140 million annually, fueled by television broadcasts, gospel albums, and religious merchandise. His Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge, capable of seating 7,000, became a hub for intense Pentecostal services, where worshipers often engaged in speaking in tongues.

However, Swaggart's career faced a dramatic downturn in 1988 when he was photographed with a sex worker in New Orleans. The scandal, which he tearfully addressed in a televised sermon, led to his resignation from the Assemblies of God after he refused to undergo a mandated two-year rehabilitation program. Swaggart's ministry never fully recovered, and his audience dwindled significantly.

Continued Influence Despite Scandal

Despite the setbacks, Swaggart continued to preach and operate his own broadcast network. His complex in Baton Rouge still houses a worship center and broadcasting facilities. Swaggart's influence, though reduced, persisted through his dedication to his faith and his followers.

Controversial Legacy

Swaggart's legacy is marked by both his fervent preaching and the controversies that surrounded him. Known for his critical stance against other religious figures embroiled in scandals, Swaggart's own indiscretions became a focal point of public and media scrutiny. His comments on Catholicism and Judaism also sparked controversy, adding to his complex public persona.