The Eyes of Tammy Faye

Tamara 'Tammy' Faye LaValley becomes captivated by Jim Bakker while attending North Central Bible College in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her fascination with him marks the beginning of a transformative journey in her life, setting the stage for their shared mission in the Christian faith.

Despite her mother's disapproval, Tammy marries Jim and they make the bold decision to drop out of college. Their ambition to preach and uplift Christian communities propels them into a passionate journey across the United States, forging a path that intertwines faith with public life.

Tammy and Jim's dynamic preaching catches the attention of Pat Robertson's Christian Broadcasting Network. They are recruited to host the children's program 'Jim and Tammy', which becomes a significant stepping stone in their television careers.

Jim takes on the role of host for CBN's 'The 700 Club' in 1966, elevating their public profile. Tammy gives birth to their daughter, Tammy Sue, heralding a new chapter in both their personal and professional lives.

At a social gathering, Tammy and Jim encounter conservative pastor Jerry Falwell, who expresses interest in collaborating with CBN. This meeting stirs a potent conversation about faith intersecting with politics, revealing tensions that will impact their future.

Following a heated exchange with Falwell, Tammy encourages Jim to start their own television network for greater programming control. This leads to the formation of the PTL Satellite Network and the introduction of their flagship show, 'The PTL Club' in 1974.

Tammy invites her mother Rachel and stepfather Fred to live with them at their luxurious estate in Tega Cay, South Carolina. However, Rachel soon expresses concerns regarding PTL's financial practices, hinting at troubles ahead.

As media scrutiny of PTL's financial management escalates, tensions arise between Tammy and Jim when he dismisses music producer Gary S. Paxton. This event foreshadows the challenges in their relationship amidst Jim's focus on new ventures.

In the 1980s, as Jim pursues the establishment of a Christian theme park, Tammy battles a growing addiction to pills. Simultaneously, she faces the tightening grip of Jerry Falwell over their programming decisions.

In a show of courage, Tammy invites AIDS patient and pastor Steve Pieters to discuss LGBTQ+ support on their program. This bold move leads to conflict with Falwell, highlighting the deepening rift in their perspectives on faith.

During a live taping, Tammy faces a health crisis that results in a fierce argument with Jim. This moment signifies the growing strain in their marriage as personal struggles become entwined with public life.

In the midst of emerging scandals surrounding PTL's financial issues and Jim's personal indiscretions, Jerry Falwell seizes control of the network. This power shift marks a significant turning point in their careers and relationship.

By 1992, Tammy and Jim's marriage officially ends in divorce after years of turmoil. Tammy is left grappling with her fading career and the death of her mother, Rachel, as she seeks to reclaim her place in the television industry.

Struggling to rediscover her voice, Tammy accepts an invitation to perform at a Christian concert at Oral Roberts University. She delivers an emotional rendition of 'Battle Hymn of the Republic', imagining a vibrant gospel choir to accompany her, which marks a poignant moment in her fight for renewal.

In the years following their separation, Falwell passes away in 2007, while Jim attempts a return to televangelism with a revived PTL post-incarceration. Meanwhile, Tammy focuses on advocating for LGBTQ+ rights until her own passing later that same year.