Primetime Preacher$ on Netflix: Release Date, Plot and What to Expect

In the 1980s, televangelism grew from Sunday-morning sermons into sprawling, multi-million-dollar media empires. Then a very public scandal erupted, and the most powerful names on television turned on each other. Netflix’s new documentary, Primetime Preacher$, revisits that holy war and the rivalries behind it.

Primetime Preacher$: Overview

What Is the Story About?

According to Netflix’s synopsis, the film follows three of America’s most influential televangelists of the era: Jim Bakker, Jerry Falwell and Jimmy Swaggart. Each used television to build a vast media ministry and reach millions of viewers during primetime hours, turning everyday preachers into household names.

Their influence went far beyond religion. The documentary explores how these broadcasting empires helped transform evangelical Christianity from a largely nonpartisan movement into a major force in American politics, one whose impact still echoes today.

When a shocking sex scandal broke, it set off an all-out feud among the three men. It gripped the nation and exposed the ambitions and rivalries behind their ministries.

Who Is Behind the Camera?

Academy Award nominee Joe Berlinger directs. He has already made nine documentaries for Netflix, along with the Ted Bundy drama Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile. That track record suggests a fast-paced, archive-heavy true-story approach, and the release materials highlight vintage footage of figures like Tammy Faye Bakker and Jim Bakker.

Should You Watch It?

If you love true-story documentaries about power, media and scandal, this looks like a strong pick. At 113 minutes, it’s a comfortable single-sitting watch, and the November 20 date makes it an easy addition to your weekend queue. For more streaming picks and release calendars, keep exploring Technosports so you never miss what’s next on Netflix.

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