UK media regulator Ofcom has fined Word Network £150,000 after finding that the religious channel breached broadcasting rules by promoting a so-called “miracle water” product as a cure for serious illnesses, including cancer.
The penalty follows an investigation into two episodes of Peter Popoff Ministries, in which American televangelist Peter Popoff made claims about the healing and financial benefits of the “Miracle Spring Water.” Ofcom ruled that these broadcasts contained “potentially harmful claims” and failed to adhere to regulations that prohibit misleading medical endorsements in religious programming.
“Ofcom was particularly concerned that the programmes repeatedly featured statements and testimonials suggesting the water could cure serious illnesses, including cancer,” the regulator stated.
The controversial episodes aired in May 2023, with one segment featuring testimonies from individuals who claimed the water had helped them overcome lung cancer, financial hardship, and other health conditions. Another episode suggested it could aid in recovering from drug addiction, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
In its ruling, Ofcom determined that the programme had violated the Broadcasting Code, which forbids religious channels from exploiting viewers’ vulnerabilities or promoting products during their shows. While acknowledging the right to religious expression, the regulator concluded that the claims “went beyond proclamations of faith” and could mislead audiences.
As part of the sanction, Ofcom has barred Word Network from rebroadcasting the episodes and mandated that the channel issue an on-air statement acknowledging the findings.
Word Network has pushed back against the decision, arguing that Peter Popoff Ministries had aired for years without previous issues. The broadcaster also accused Ofcom of applying “double standards,” claiming that the regulator allows explicit content on other platforms while targeting religious programming.
This fine is the latest in a series of penalties imposed on religious broadcasters. In 2023, Loveworld and Bauer Radio were also fined for breaching Ofcom regulations, while Russian state-funded RT UK had its license revoked over impartiality concerns.
