OJ Simpson, the former NFL player and TV personality known for his football career and the controversial trial in 1995 where he was found not guilty of murdering his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman, has passed away from cancer at the age of 76, as announced by his family on X.
His verified X account shared the news on Thursday, stating, “Our father, Orenthal James Simpson, lost his battle with cancer on April 10th.” Simpson was surrounded by his children and grandchildren during his final moments, and the family has requested privacy and understanding during this difficult time.
OJ Simpson Died
OJ Simpson, a prominent figure in American sports and culture, has passed away at the age of 76. He gained international attention during the mid-1990s due to his highly publicized trial for the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ronald Goldman. Despite being acquitted in what was famously dubbed the “trial of the century,” the case left a lasting impact on the public consciousness.
Simpson’s family announced his passing on Thursday, revealing that he had been battling cancer. According to the announcement shared on the social media platform X, Simpson passed away peacefully surrounded by his children and grandchildren on Wednesday.
In their message, the family requested privacy and grace from the public during this difficult time of transition. They expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and asked for understanding as they grieve the loss of their beloved patriarch.
Also Read: Switzerland Sets Date for Ukraine Peace Summit
About OJ Simpson
OJ Simpson’s journey to fame began in the face of adversity. Despite growing up in severe poverty and dealing with health challenges, he emerged as a standout athlete. He rose to prominence first as a college football player and then as a star in the National Football League (NFL), where he achieved numerous accolades, including the prestigious Most Valuable Player award in 1973.
Beyond his accomplishments on the football field, Simpson’s charisma and charm propelled him into the world of acting and commercial endorsements. He became one of the most recognizable Black faces in America, with his endorsements ranging from orange juice to car rentals. One of his most iconic advertising campaigns was with Hertz, where he was depicted sprinting through airports in a three-piece suit, a portrayal that became ingrained in pop culture folklore.
Simpson’s legacy is complex and multifaceted, encompassing both his achievements in sports and entertainment and the controversies that surrounded his personal life. His passing marks the end of a chapter in American history, leaving behind a legacy that continues to spark discussion and debate.
OJ Simpson Fame to Infamy
O.J. Simpson, once famous, became infamous following the brutal murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman, in a Los Angeles suburb.
The whole nation watched as police chased Simpson on live TV, followed by a dramatic trial full of intense lawyers and accusations of racism.
Despite widespread disbelief, Simpson was acquitted in October 1995, leaving Americans divided along racial lines on his guilt.
Despite his freedom, Simpson faced no happy future, being held liable for the deaths in a 1997 civil suit and ordered to pay $33.5 million in damages to the victims’ families.
He also spent nearly nine years in prison for an unsuccessful armed robbery before being released on parole in 2017.
However, public interest in Simpson never waned, with documentaries and TV series winning awards and keeping his story alive.
Recently, Simpson dismissed reports of being in hospice care, stating he’s well and hosting friends for the Super Bowl in Las Vegas.
Also Read: WHO Raises Concern Over Viral Hepatitis
OJ Simpson Died FAQs
Q.1. What was OJ Simpson known for?
Ans. OJ Simpson was a former NFL player and TV personality, famous for his football career and the controversial trial in 1995.
Q.2. How did OJ Simpson die?
Ans. OJ Simpson passed away from cancer at the age of 76, surrounded by his family.
Q.3. What was the outcome of OJ Simpson’s trial?
Ans. Despite being acquitted in the highly publicized trial for the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman, Simpson was later found liable for their deaths in a civil suit.
Q.4. What was OJ Simpson’s legacy?
Ans. OJ Simpson’s legacy is complex, encompassing his achievements in sports and entertainment, as well as the controversies surrounding his personal life and legal battles.
Q.5. How long was OJ Simpson in prison?
Ans. OJ Simpson served nearly nine years in prison for an unsuccessful armed robbery before being released on parole in 2017.