Tammy Faye Bakker was an American cultural icon, not just a television personality. Tammy Faye, born in 1942, was a star of the televangelism show The PTL Club, alongside her first husband, Jim Bakker. Tammy Faye Bakker — with her trademark makeup and emotional sincerity — became a household name among millions.

Tammy Faye’s resilience and compassion shone through despite the controversies surrounding their ministry. She became a voice for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness at a time when many people turned away from those subjects. Tammy Faye Bakker has left behind a legacy of love and acceptance that speaks loudly in today’s world.

Tammy Faye’s life, with its all-American rise and fall markered by huge hair and bigger tears, has been re-exposed in the last few years through documentaries (including a recent HBO offering) and the 2021 film The Eyes of Tammy Faye, evidence of her continued impact on both pop culture and the televangelism scene. The tale of Tammy Faye Bakker lives on in new generations, the message to stamp out hate and embrace those struggling with who they are. Her journey is proof that even in the most difficult times, it’s possible to find strength through kindness.