Contact: Colby May, TBN, 202-544-5171, cmay@tbn.org 

LOS ANGELES, May 17, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- Trinity Broadcasting Network, America's most-watched faith channel, welcomes legendary Hollywood actor Lou Gossett Jr. to TBN's signature talk and ministry program Praise the Lord May 17. Joined by host Clifton Davis, Mr. Gossett will discuss his life in film, his latest projects, and how his faith inspires his actions and perspective.

Throughout the past five decades Lou Gossett Jr. has earned a reputation as a powerful actor of both stage and screen. Following his initial success in the stage and film versions of the classic drama A Raisin in the Sun, Mr. Gossett gained worldwide fame for his Emmy-award winning portrayal of the character Fiddler in the landmark 1977 television miniseries Roots. He went on to garner an Academy Award in 1982 for his performance as tough-as-nails drill sergeant Emil Foley in An Officer and a Gentleman, and in the ensuing years he has been a dependable and versatile presence in scores of films.

Over the past several years, Mr. Gossett has committed his efforts to a special initiative called the Eracism Foundation, launched in 2006, to address the worldwide problem of racial hatred. "Loving your enemies means acknowledging that nothing beneficial comes from hatred," said Mr. Gossett, explaining that after enjoying more than 50 years as a successful actor, "I am dedicating the last quadrant of my life to an all-out conscientious offensive against racism."

TBN founder Dr. Paul Crouch noted that the network has enjoyed a close relationship over the years with many individuals in the film industry. "In the midst of the moral compromise that defines so much of what goes on in Hollywood, there is still a strong thread of faith and integrity represented by these men and women committed to impacting the culture through film," said Dr. Crouch. "We're always thrilled with how they encourage our viewers with their testimonies and perspective."

TBN's Praise the Lord with special guest Lou Gossett Jr. will air May 17 at 7:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) on TBN. You can also view this and other exclusive TBN programs On Demand at iTBN.org.