Pastor and motivational speaker Bishop T.D. Jakes, founder of The Potter’s House, has filed a federal defamation lawsuit against Duane Youngblood, a former pastor from Homestead, Pennsylvania. The case stems from allegations made during an October podcast episode of Larry Reid Live, where Youngblood accused Jakes of sexual abuse that allegedly occurred nearly 40 years ago.
The Allegations and Lawsuit
Youngblood, previously convicted of sexually assaulting a minor and listed as a lifetime registered sex offender, alleged that Jakes attempted to groom and assault him during a visit to Pittsburgh decades ago. According to Youngblood, the encounter left lasting psychological damage. The episode, titled The Abused Become the Abuser, went viral, leading to widespread speculation about the platform’s credibility and Youngblood’s story.
Watch Tonight at 7 PM EST: Discussing Bishop T.D. Jakes’ Defamation Lawsuit
In his lawsuit, Jakes vehemently denies the claims, labeling them as fabrications meant to deflect attention from Youngblood’s criminal past. The suit accuses Youngblood of using these allegations to extort $6 million from Jakes under the threat of continued public shaming. A demand letter allegedly sent to Jakes on November 15 outlined these financial terms.
A Legacy Under Attack
 Jakes, 67, has been a spiritual leader for decades, with a congregation exceeding 30,000 members. Known for counseling U.S. presidents and hosting national events, Jakes asserts that these allegations jeopardize his philanthropic work and health. On November 24, he experienced a medical crisis during a sermon, which his church attributed to the stress of the ordeal.
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Jakes’ team argues that Youngblood’s intent was clear—financial gain through public harassment. Meanwhile, Youngblood has yet to publicly respond to the legal action.
