Pat Robertson, a prominent figure in the US religious right and a pioneer of televangelism, passed away on Thursday at the age of 93, according to his organization, the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN).

Robertson was the founder and chairman of CBN, which operates a global network of television and radio stations, as well as a host of The 700 Club, a daily talk show that mixes news, commentary and prayer.

Robertson was also a political activist who ran for president in 1988 and founded the Christian Coalition, a conservative lobbying group that mobilized millions of Christian voters.

Robertson was known for his controversial views on social issues, such as homosexuality, abortion and Islam, as well as his predictions of natural disasters and divine interventions.

He was also a philanthropist who supported humanitarian causes around the world through his Operation Blessing International organization.