Jim Bakker Disgraced Television Evangelist Dies at 86

(KMDL-FM) Jim Bakker, a television evangelist who, along with his wife Tammy Faye, built an evangelical empire, died at 86.  Bakker, along with his wife, amassed millions through the highly successful "The PTL Club" TV show, only to see it all go by the wayside because of a sex scandal and financial crimes.

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What Was the Cause of Evangelist Jim Bakker's Death

The cause of Bakker's death, according to a statement released by his second wife, Lori, was not made clear. Bakker and his wife shared a home near Branson, Missouri. That is where the pair created and filmed The Jim Bakker Show. That show was launched in 2003.

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At the peak of Bakker's popularity, his "The PTL Club" TV show drew nearly 13 million viewers nightly. The couple used the show's popularity and financial power to build Heritage USA, a Christian-based Theme Park and Hotel near Fort Mill, South Carolina.

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During its heyday, Heritage USA was the third most visited theme park in the United States. This was during Bakker's peak popularity in the 1980s. The theme park was closed in 1989 following a series of unfortunate events. Among those events were the sex scandal, the bankruptcy, and physical damage to the property left behind by Hurricane Hugo.

What Happened to Heritage USA Theme Park?

The Heritage USA property has been converted into housing, subdivisions, condos, and other private homes. The former hotel on the property is now home to MorningStar Ministries, and the infamous Heritage Tower, which was never completed, is currently being considered for demolition.

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Bakker got his start in television ministry with the help of fellow television preacher Pat Robertson. Bakker worked with Robertson from 1965 to 1972. It was in 1974 that Bakker formed the PTL Satellite Network, and The PTL Club became its signature show.

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We expect more details to be released later today. Jim Bakker was 86 at the time of his passing.