Joni Lamb dies at 65: What to know about the Daystar co-founder’s life, family, and legacy
Daystar co-founder Joni Lamb. Image Credit: Daystar
Joni Lamb, the longtime president and co-founder of Daystar Television Network, has died at the age of 65 following what the ministry described as a serious private health struggle.
The announcement was made by Daystar on May 7, 2026, confirming that Lamb passed away after her medical condition worsened in recent days following complications linked to a back injury.
Her death marks the end of a decades-long career in Christian broadcasting that helped transform Daystar into one of the world’s most recognised faith-based television networks. Lamb was widely known for her television ministry, inspirational broadcasts, and role in expanding Christian programming globally.
What Happened to Joni Lamb?
According to a statement released by Daystar Television Network, Joni Lamb had been battling serious health issues privately before suffering a back injury that worsened her condition.
The ministry stated that despite efforts by medical professionals and prayers from supporters around the world, her health deteriorated rapidly in the days leading to her death.
Daystar noted that Lamb spent her final moments at her home in Bedford, Texas, surrounded by loved ones.
The network said:
“The back injury compounded those challenges and led to a more serious medical situation than anyone anticipated.”
No official cause of death beyond the reported health complications has been publicly disclosed.
Joni Lamb’s Legacy at Daystar Television Network
Joni Lamb co-founded Daystar Television Network alongside her first husband, Marcus Lamb. Together, they built one of the largest Christian television ministries in the world.
Over several decades, Daystar expanded its reach internationally, broadcasting faith-based programming, sermons, worship services, and Christian talk shows to millions of viewers.
Lamb became one of the most recognisable women in Christian broadcasting and frequently appeared on Daystar’s flagship programs discussing faith, family, and ministry.
Following Marcus Lamb’s death in 2021 due to COVID-19 complications, Joni continued leading the ministry while overseeing Daystar’s operations and programming.
The ministry confirmed that succession plans had already been established before her passing, ensuring continuity in leadership and broadcasting activities.
Joni Lamb’s Family and Marriage
Joni Lamb was married to Marcus Lamb for 39 years before his death in 2021. The couple shared three children:
- Jonathan Lamb
- Rachel Lamb
- Rebecca Lamb
In 2023, she remarried Doug Weiss, who later joined her as a co-host on Daystar programming.
Her family remains central to Daystar’s ongoing leadership structure and ministry activities.
READ ALSO
CNN founder Ted Turner dies at 87: The untold story behind the man who revolutionized 24-hour news
Renewed Attention on Marcus Lamb’s Past Infidelity Scandal
Following Joni Lamb’s death, renewed attention has emerged surrounding a widely publicised controversy involving Marcus Lamb’s admission of infidelity years ago.
In 2010, Marcus Lamb publicly confessed on live television that he had engaged in what he described as an “inappropriate relationship.” He claimed at the time that former employees attempted to blackmail and extort money from him over the affair.
Joni Lamb publicly addressed the issue during the broadcast, describing the relationship as emotional and stating that the couple had already undergone counselling and restored their marriage before the public revelation.
The controversy later escalated into lawsuits and counter-lawsuits involving former employees and the network. However, the legal disputes were eventually dismissed or quietly resolved.
Despite the scandal, Marcus and Joni Lamb remained married until his death in 2021.
Christian Leaders React to Joni Lamb’s Death
Several Christian leaders and ministry figures have reacted to the news of Joni Lamb’s passing.
Paula White-Cain described Lamb as a “general for the kingdom” and praised her impact on Christian ministry and global evangelism.
In a tribute shared online, White-Cain wrote:
“You finished your course.”
Many supporters across social media also paid tribute to Lamb’s decades of ministry work and her role in Christian broadcasting.
Daystar Says Ministry Will Continue
Despite the loss, Daystar Television Network has assured viewers and supporters that its mission will continue.
The ministry stated that Joni Lamb had worked closely with its leadership board on long-term succession planning before her death.
Daystar said it remains committed to broadcasting Christian content worldwide and continuing the work the Lamb family began decades ago.
Her passing comes at a time when Christian media networks continue expanding digital and streaming operations to reach global audiences beyond traditional television.
Joni Lamb Remembered for Her Influence in Christian Broadcasting
For many viewers, Joni Lamb represented one of the most influential female voices in modern Christian television.
Her ministry work, leadership role at Daystar, and decades of broadcasting helped shape faith-based media for a global audience.
While controversy occasionally surrounded the network and its leadership, supporters often praised her commitment to spreading Christian teachings through television ministry.
Joni Lamb’s death closes a major chapter in Christian broadcasting history, leaving behind a legacy that influenced millions of viewers worldwide.
FAQ
Who was Joni Lamb?
Joni Lamb was the co-founder and president of Daystar Television Network, one of the world’s largest Christian television networks. She was widely known for her work in Christian broadcasting and ministry leadership.
How did Joni Lamb die?
Daystar Television Network said Joni Lamb died after a serious private health struggle worsened following a back injury. Her condition reportedly deteriorated in the days before her death.
What was Joni Lamb’s age at death?
Joni Lamb died at the age of 65.
What is Daystar Television Network?
Daystar Television Network is a global Christian television network founded by Joni and Marcus Lamb. The network broadcasts Christian programming, worship services, sermons, and faith-based talk shows.
Who was Joni Lamb married to?
Joni Lamb was first married to Marcus Lamb for 39 years until his death in 2021. She later married Doug Weiss in 2023.
Who was Marcus Lamb?
Marcus Lamb was the co-founder of Daystar Television Network and a well-known Christian broadcaster. He died in 2021 from complications related to COVID-19.
Did Marcus Lamb admit to cheating on Joni Lamb?
Yes. In 2010, Marcus Lamb publicly admitted on live television that he had engaged in an inappropriate relationship years earlier. He claimed he was being blackmailed by former employees over the matter.
How many children did Joni Lamb have?
Joni Lamb had three children with Marcus Lamb:
- Jonathan Lamb
- Rachel Lamb
- Rebecca Lamb
What happened after Marcus Lamb’s cheating confession?
The public confession led to controversy and legal disputes involving former employees and Daystar Television Network. Lawsuits and counter-lawsuits were later dismissed or resolved.
Will Daystar Television Network continue after Joni Lamb’s death?
Yes. Daystar said succession plans had already been established and the ministry will continue its broadcasting operations worldwide.
Why is Joni Lamb trending online?
Joni Lamb is trending due to news of her death, renewed discussions about her ministry legacy, and renewed public interest in past controversies involving Marcus Lamb and Daystar Television Network.
Where did Joni Lamb live before her death?
Reports indicate that Joni Lamb spent her final days at her home in Bedford, Texas.