PTL Fires Brother of Founder Bakker

FORT MILL, S.C. — Norm Bakker, brother of PTL founder Jim Bakker, was fired as a greeter at PTL’s plush hotel here Friday.

Bakker said he was fired by Harry Hargrave, the PTL’s chief operating officer appointed by PTL chairman Jerry Falwell in April.

Bakker, 53, said his dismissal came as a surprise. His duties included prompting of applause during the television show and talking to guests during a daily two-hour afternoon tea at the Heritage Grand Hotel.

“He said they didn’t need my position,” Bakker said. He said his father and mother, Raleigh and Fern Bakker, will remain on the PTL payroll. They are paid to attend the TV show every day.