Fact Check: Did Jimmy Swaggart Die?
What We Know
Jimmy Swaggart, the well-known televangelist and gospel singer, has indeed passed away at the age of 90. His death was confirmed by his ministry on July 1, 2025, following complications from a heart attack he suffered on June 15, 2025. Swaggart's son, Donnie Swaggart, announced the news to congregants at the Family Worship Center Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, stating, "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" (NPR, NY Times).
Swaggart was a prominent figure in American televangelism, known for his passionate preaching and significant influence during the 1980s. His ministry reportedly generated substantial revenue, peaking at around $150 million annually (NPR). Despite facing personal scandals that affected his ministry, he remained active in preaching until his late 80s (NY Daily News).
Analysis
The confirmation of Jimmy Swaggart's death comes from multiple reputable sources, including NPR and The New York Times, both of which reported the event shortly after it was announced by his ministry. The consistency of the reports across different media outlets adds to the reliability of the information. NPR's report details the circumstances surrounding his hospitalization and eventual passing, while The New York Times provides context about his life and career, including his rise to fame and the controversies that surrounded him (NPR, NY Times).
Other sources, such as CNN and the New York Post, corroborate the details of his death and provide additional insights into his legacy and the impact of his ministry (CNN, NY Post). Given the coverage from multiple established news organizations, the claim that Jimmy Swaggart has died is well-supported.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Jimmy Swaggart has died is accurate. His passing has been confirmed by his ministry and reported by multiple reputable news sources, providing a clear and consistent narrative surrounding his death.
Sources
- Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart dies at age 90 (https://www.npr.org/2025/07/01/nx-s1-5436894/televangelist-jimmy-swaggart-dies-at-age-90)
- Jimmy Swaggart Dies at 90; Passionate Televangelist Was ... (https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/01/us/the-rev-jimmy-lee-swaggart-dead.html)
- Jimmy Swaggart | March 15, 1935 - July 1, 2025 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LzX7IgAUPk)
- Controversial televangelist Jimmy Swaggart dies at 90 (https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/07/01/jimmy-swaggart-dies-cardiac-arrest/)
- When is Jimmy Swaggart's funeral? What to know about ... (https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/07/11/when-is-jimmy-swaggart-funeral/84610350007/)
- Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart dead at 90, weeks after heart attack (https://nypost.com/2025/07/01/us-news/televangelist-rev-jimmy-swaggart-dead-at-90-weeks-after-heart-attack/)
- Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, whose ministry was ... - CNN (https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/01/us/jimmy-swaggart-dies)
- Jimmy Swaggart to be remembered during memorial ... (https://www.wafb.com/2025/07/12/jimmy-swaggart-be-remembered-during-memorial-services-this-weekend/)