I can’t think of many things more typically American than televangelism. I also can’t think of many things more quintessentially British than being fascinated by our Bible-bashing neighbour.
Based on the 2000 documentary narrated by RuPaul, The Eyes of Tammy Faye is a biopic directed by Michael Showalter. The film explores the life of Tammy Faye Bakker and her marriage to Jim Bakker, along with their televangelist career, ministry, and affairs.
Tammy Faye was known for her iconic image and showing love towards the LGBTQ+ community and AIDS sufferers at a time when many ministries excluded them. Up to her death in 2007, Tammy Faye supported gay rights and has been dubbed an “unlikely gay icon”.
We watch Tammy Faye rise from humble beginnings to immense success as an evangelist on television. Rising from the scandal of her mother’s second marriage, Tammy Faye meets Jim at Bible college and is charmed by his preaching. The couple decide to drop out of college to become evangelists, with Jim preaching and Tammy Faye singing and performing children’s puppet shows.
After having their car taken away for failing payments (red flag), the two are spotted by Pat Roberton’s Christian Broadcasting Network and host their own kid’s show. By 1974, the couple have created their own network, Praise the Lord (PTL) to have more control over production. Jim encourages payments from viewers, which fund their lavish lifestyles.
Following a confrontation from her mother regarding a newspaper article that expresses concerns over where viewer donations go, Tammy becomes sceptical about how PTL is being run. Tammy Faye and Jim become more distant, leading to Tammy’s affair with their music producer. This news is extremely difficult for Jim and comes before the birth of their second child.
Tammy Faye becomes addicted to anxiety medication to cope with the stress of her situation. After conducting a powerful interview with an AIDS victim, Tammy Faye learns of Jim’s infidelity. Tammy overdoses on pills and collapses in a live performance, provoking Jim to confess about his affair.
Scandals concerning PTL’s debt and Jim’s affairs with both men and women lead to the couple losing control of PTL. Jim was eventually convicted for fraud in 1989, and the couple divorce while he is in prison. Tammy Faye struggles to continue her television career, as well as losing her mother. The film ends with Tammy Faye performing live once again, dreaming of a gospel audience supporting her.
This film was a fascinating insight into the world of televangelism and the controversies surrounding Tammy Faye and Jim. It’s made me want to watch the original documentary and has rekindled my love for biopics.