Jimmy Swaggart [videorecording]

Jimmy Swaggart's tearful appeal to his legions of followers, asserting that God had forgiven him and they should too, came to symbolize the failings and hypocrisy of an industry that wrapped itself in the trappings of piousness. But as BIOGRAPHY shows, Jimmy Swaggart came by his faith honestly, even if he was later blinded by the fame and wealth he achieved as a result of his ministry. The son of an itinerant preacher, he was "possessed" by the Holy Spirit at the age of 8, convulsing, speaking in tongues and prophesying the future. It marked the beginning of a long and winding spiritual journey that continues today, though the former spiritual superstar has rarely been heard from since he was caught with a prostitute for the second time. Jimmy Swaggart was called of God to preach the uncompromising Gospel of Jesus Christ to the world There is no doubt that televangelist Jimmy Swaggart had a special appeal to his followers. His musical talent, fiery brand of preaching, and his righteous indignation at doers of iniquity won him a huge television audience and great personal wealth. This documentary chronicles the story of his exposure as a hypocrite, which led to his disgrace, and the disillusionment of those who had looked to him for spiritual leadership. Archival television footage shows Swaggart in his glory days, as well as at the moment of his stunning admission of his own shortcomings. This documentary aired on The Biography Channel on 5/10/2001. - Rose of Sharon Winter, Rovi.