20 20 Jim And Tammy Faye Bakker

Okay, folks, let's talk about something a little… sparkly. Remember the Bakkers? Jim and Tammy Faye?

I know, I know, some people roll their eyes. Scandals, tears, mascara rivers… But hear me out. I think they were kind of awesome.

A Blast From The Past: PTL!

Back in the '80s, they were everywhere. TV screens, magazine covers, even grocery store tabloids. They built a whole empire called PTL (Praise The Lord!).

And let's be honest, it was a wild ride. Rollercoasters, waterparks, and enough hairspray to deplete the ozone layer. It was pure, unadulterated camp.

My Unpopular Opinion: They Were Authentically Themselves

Here's where I might lose some of you. I actually think Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker were being themselves. Totally and completely.

Sure, there were definitely some questionable financial dealings. And yes, things eventually went sideways. Big time.

But before all that? They seemed like they genuinely believed in what they were doing. They were selling hope, wrapped in a glittery package.

The Tammy Faye Factor: More Than Just Mascara

Let's give Tammy Faye her due. She was a force of nature. That woman loved hard, and she wasn’t afraid to show it.

She cried on TV. A lot. But she also championed causes that other televangelists wouldn't touch. She embraced the LGBTQ+ community at a time when it was deeply unpopular.

And her makeup? Iconic. It was like a shield, a declaration of self. She refused to be apologetic for her over-the-top style.

The Jim Bakker Saga: A Complicated Story

Jim Bakker is a more complicated figure, no doubt. His downfall was pretty spectacular. And let's just say some of his actions are hard to defend.

But even with all the controversy, you have to admit he had a certain charisma. He built something from nothing. A dream, however flawed.

20/20 Hindsight: Lessons Learned?

Looking back, the Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker story is a cautionary tale. About greed, power, and the dangers of mixing religion with money.

But it's also a story about faith, forgiveness, and the enduring power of… well, maybe just really good waterproof mascara. Think about it.

Maybe, just maybe, they were trying to do good in their own, very unique way. And who are we to judge? (Okay, maybe a little judging is allowed.)

They were certainly memorable. And in a world of beige conformity, maybe a little bit of Tammy Faye sparkle is what we need. I’m not saying she's a saint.

I am saying I would watch her reality show. Seriously. Pass the tissues and the glitter.