Joni Lamb, Co-Founder of Daystar Television Network, Dies at 65
The Christian broadcasting world is mourning the loss of Joni Lamb, the longtime president and co-founder of the Daystar Television Network, who passed away at the age of 65 following a decline in health, according to statements released by the ministry. (AP News)
Daystar confirmed that Lamb had been dealing with serious health complications before suffering a back injury that reportedly worsened her condition in recent weeks. While an official cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, the network described her passing as a heartbreaking loss for the global Christian community. (AP News)
A Pioneer in Christian Broadcasting
Joni Lamb helped build Daystar into one of the largest Christian television networks in the world. She co-founded the ministry alongside her late husband, Marcus Lamb, in the early 1990s. What began as a local television ministry in Texas eventually expanded into a worldwide network reaching audiences in more than 200 countries. (AP News)
Known for her warm on-screen personality and outspoken faith, Joni became a recognizable face to millions of viewers through programs such as Joni Table Talk and Ministry Now. Her broadcasts often focused on spirituality, family values, healing, and contemporary issues affecting Christians around the world. (Wikipedia)
Following Marcus Lamb’s death from COVID-19 complications in 2021, Joni stepped into a more prominent leadership role within the network. She later remarried author and counselor Doug Weiss in 2023, and the couple frequently appeared together on Daystar programming. (People.com)
Tributes Pour In
After news of her death broke, tributes began pouring in from Christian leaders, viewers, and ministry partners across social media and religious broadcasting circles. In an official statement, Daystar described Lamb as “an inspiration to millions” and praised her boldness, compassion, and commitment to spreading faith-based programming worldwide. (movieguide.org)
Many longtime viewers remembered her as a comforting and familiar presence on Christian television for decades. Others highlighted her role in helping shape modern faith-based media during a period of massive growth in satellite and digital broadcasting. (AP News)
A Complicated Legacy
While Joni Lamb was widely respected by supporters for her influence in Christian media, Daystar also faced public controversies in recent years. The network became the subject of criticism surrounding allegations connected to family disputes and claims involving the handling of abuse accusations within the organization. Several high-profile televangelists reportedly distanced themselves from the network during the controversy. (Chron)
Online reactions to Lamb’s passing reflected both admiration and criticism, with some remembering her ministry contributions while others referenced ongoing controversies surrounding the network. (Reddit)
The Future of Daystar
Despite the loss of its longtime leader, Daystar officials stated that the ministry will continue operating under an established leadership structure that Joni Lamb reportedly helped put into place before her death. (AP News)
Joni Lamb is survived by her husband Doug Weiss, her three children, grandchildren, and extended family. Her passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of Christian television broadcasting.
For many supporters, she will be remembered as a pioneering figure whose work helped transform religious broadcasting into a global media platform.