For nearly three decades, “The Skit Guys” stood as one of the most recognizable and beloved creative ministries in the Christian world. Their blend of humor, storytelling, and heartfelt spiritual lessons made them a staple in thousands of churches. But in a surprising turn of events, the comedy-and-drama duo has officially ended their long-running partnership following the sudden exit of co-founder Eddie James over what the ministry described only as “a moral failure.”

The announcement was revealed on SkitGuys.com and through an emotional video statement by remaining co-founder Tommy Woodard. For supporters who have followed the duo since their early days in the 1990s, the news marked the end of an era.

According to the public statement posted online, “after almost 30 years of ministry together, The Skit Guys, as you know us, are coming to an end.” No additional details were shared about the nature of James’ misconduct, leaving many long-time followers stunned.

In his video address, Woodard admitted that James’ departure was as unexpected for him as it was for the public. He expressed his desire to offer more transparency but noted that certain details could not be disclosed. “I would love to sit down with each of you and explain everything, but I can’t,” he shared.

The ministry explained that James stepped down after confessing to actions that violated both their internal standards and biblical expectations for leaders in marriage and ministry. Some of the group’s existing video content featuring James has already been removed, and more materials are currently under review.

Woodard emphasized, however, that despite the personal and organizational shock, his faith remains unshaken. “This did not catch God off guard,” he said. “In ways I couldn’t see, He has been carrying me through some of the most difficult days of my life.”

The End of a Ministry Era

The Skit Guys began in Oklahoma, where two young friends—Woodard and James—performed sketches for youth groups and small church gatherings. Over time, their work evolved into a full-fledged ministry, producing short films, sermon illustrations, family programs, seasonal videos, and scripts used in churches worldwide.

Their popularity grew even more during the COVID-19 pandemic. With churches temporarily closed, their free online content—especially Bedtime Bible Stories and SGTV—offered families a source of joy and connection during the months of isolation. Their 2022 feature film Family Camp marked their entry into theatrical comedy and expanded their influence beyond the church space.

Both men have deep roots in the Baptist tradition, though their public-facing work appealed to Christians across various denominations. Woodard previously served as a pastor in Oklahoma, while James worked at Saddleback Church before joining other Baptist-affiliated ministries.

A New Creative Chapter: 231 Collective

While The Skit Guys as a duo concludes, Woodard revealed that his creative work will continue under a new banner: 231 Collective. The name draws inspiration from Exodus 31, where God empowers the artisan Bezalel—highlighting, as Woodard put it, “the first time God’s Spirit is poured out on an artist.”

He described the new organization as a collaborative creative ministry dedicated to producing art that inspires transformation and points people toward truth. Planned projects include children’s programming, reality TV concepts, books, films, and other large-scale creative works.

Woodard also shared that the next season will involve a new funding model driven by generosity rather than commercial sales. The goal is to make all content freely available while establishing a foundational financial base of $500,000 to support long-term production.

“We spent years creating only what we could afford and then asking God to bless it,” Woodard said. “Now we’re asking a different question: ‘God, what can we create that blesses You?’”

A Painful Transition

The ministry acknowledged that James’ departure has deeply affected both families and their lifelong friendship. The two co-authored a book on friendship in 2021, making the current circumstances even more heartbreaking.

As of now, James has not made any public statement. Woodard has asked supporters to pray for both families and for wisdom as the ministry moves into its next chapter.

“Let’s answer Bezalel’s call again,” he urged. “Let’s flood the world with stories that transform.”

FAQ

1. Why did The Skit Guys end their partnership?
The ministry stated that Eddie James stepped down due to a “moral failure” that violated their standards for ministry leadership.

2. What is Tommy Woodard doing now?
He is launching a new creative ministry called 231 Collective, focused on producing free, faith-based content.

3. Will past Skit Guys content still be available?
Some videos featuring James are being removed, while the rest of the catalog is under review.

4. Is Eddie James releasing a statement?
As of now, he has not issued any public comment.

5. Will the new ministry still create comedy content?
Yes. The new focus includes comedy, children’s shows, films, books, and more.