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Joni Lamb, co-founder of Daystar Television Network, passed away on May 7, 2026, at age 65. She had been battling serious health complications, exacerbated by a recent back injury. Her legacy shaped Christian broadcasting worldwide.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Age at death: 65 years old, died on May 7, 2026
- Founded Daystar: With husband Marcus Lamb in 1993, reaching 110 million homes in the US
- Health crisis: Suffered serious complications worsened by back injury in recent weeks
- Survivors: Husband Doug Weiss and three children, Jonathan, Rachel, Rebecca
From Montgomery Beginnings to Global Christian Broadcasting
Joni Lamb and her first husband Marcus launched their television ministry in Montgomery, Alabama in 1985 with their initial station 45 Alive. They later relocated to Dallas and established KMPX-TV 29 in 1993. The couple expanded rapidly, launching Daystar Television Network in 1998.
Over four decades, Joni Lamb became one of Christian broadcasting’s most recognizable voices. She worked both on-air and behind the scenes, hosting programs and interviewing ministry leaders. Daystar grew into one of the world’s largest Christian networks, reaching viewers through satellite, cable, streaming, and digital platforms in nearly every country globally.
Joni Lamb, Daystar TV co-founder, dies at 65 from health complications
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A Private Health Battle That Escalated Suddenly
Daystar’s official statement revealed that Lamb had been privately managing serious health challenges before her condition deteriorated rapidly. According to the ministry, prior to her recent back injury, Lamb had chosen to face her medical struggles head-on but privately.
The network stated that the back injury compounded those challenges and led to complications nobody anticipated. Despite dedicated efforts from her medical team and worldwide prayers, her condition worsened in her final days. The exact specific cause of death was not disclosed, but the back injury significantly accelerated her decline.
Building an Empire That Reaches Millions
| Achievement | Details |
| Founded | 1993 with Marcus Lamb |
| Reach | 110 million homes in the United States |
| Global presence | Nearly every country via satellite, cable, streaming |
| On-air tenure | Nearly 40 years hosting and producing |
Joni Lamb transformed Daystar from a local station into a global ministry. Her vision and dedication helped millions experience Christian programming daily. The Daystar Board of Directors stated, Joni’s love for the Lord and for the people we serve shaped this ministry from the beginning. Her legacy of faith remains the foundation of the network’s ongoing mission.
“Joni’s love for the Lord and for the people we serve shaped this ministry from the beginning. We grieve her loss. We are grateful for the legacy of faith she leaves behind.”
— Daystar Board of Directors, Official Statement
Navigating Family Challenges and Personal Resilience
Marcus Lamb, Joni’s first husband and co-founder, died in November 2021 at age 64 after contracting COVID-19. The couple had been married for 39 years and built their ministry together during the most turbulent periods in Christian broadcasting. Joni remarried in June 2023 to Dr. Doug Weiss, a television co-host who joined her on Daystar programming.
The past year brought controversy after Joni’s son Jonathan Lamb accused her of covering up abuse allegations and spiritual misconduct. Jonathan was fired from Daystar in November 2024, and a Texas police department closed its investigation in May 2025, citing insufficient evidence. Despite these public disputes, Joni maintained control of the network and prepared a succession plan with the board.
What Legacy Will Daystar Leave Beyond May 7?
Daystar confirmed that Joni Lamb had already ensured an executive leadership team was positioned to continue the ministry uninterrupted. The network’s mission of spreading the Gospel remains unchanged. Programming will proceed as scheduled, with on-air tributes honoring her life and contributions set for the coming days.
Notable Christian figures responded to her death with tributes. Paula White-Cain posted on social media, describing Joni as a General for the kingdom, a pioneer, a worldwide evangelist. The family has requested prayers and privacy during their mourning period. Joni Lamb is survived by her husband Doug, her three children, and their families.
Sources
- Religion News Service – Joni Lamb, Daystar TV ministry co-founder, dies at 65
- Hindustan Times – Joni Lamb cause of death update, back injury details
- AL.com – Founder of one of world’s largest Christian TV networks dies at 65
