O.J. Simpson, originally named Orenthal James Simpson, was born on July 9, 1947, in San Francisco, California. He gained fame as a former American football player, actor, and a controversial figure in American society.
Simpson's rise to prominence began during his college years at the University of Southern California (USC), where he excelled as a star running back and clinched the Heisman Trophy in 1968.
Following his college career, Simpson transitioned to the National Football League (NFL), where he enjoyed success with teams like the Buffalo Bills and later the San Francisco 49ers.
However, Simpson's life took a tumultuous turn in 1994 with his arrest and subsequent trial for the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman.
Today, it has been confirmed that Simpson has passed away at the age of 76.
Throughout his NFL tenure, Simpson garnered numerous achievements, including six Pro Bowl selections and the distinction of being the first player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season, achieved in 1973.
After retiring from professional football in 1979, Simpson ventured into acting and broadcasting.
His noteworthy performances included portraying Detective Nordberg in the 1988 comedy film Naked Gun and Harry Jernigan in the 1974 disaster movie Towering Inferno.
O.J. Simpson Passes AwayThe highly publicized trial, famously dubbed the 'Trial of the Century,' held the nation in thrall and culminated in Simpson's acquittal in 1995, despite substantial evidence against him.
The verdict remains one of the most contentious in the annals of American legal proceedings.
"I don't think most of America believes I did it," Simpson told The New York Times in 1995, a week after he was acquitted.
"I've gotten thousands of letters and telegrams from people supporting me."
Subsequent to the trial, Simpson's life remained entangled in legal entanglements and controversies.
In his later years, Simpson embraced his infamy, exemplified by his 2016 book titled If I Did It, the rights to which were eventually awarded to Goldman's family.
In 2007, Simpson faced arrest and conviction for armed robbery and kidnapping in Las Vegas, following a dispute over sports memorabilia. He received a sentence of up to 33 years behind bars.
O.J. Simpson Passes AwayServing a nine-year prison term, Simpson was granted parole in 2017.
However, today brings the announcement of the passing of the controversial figure at the age of 76.
His family shared the news on X, previously known as Twitter, in a statement: "He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren."
"During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace. The Simpson Family"
The news of Simpson's demise this week has spurred internet users to recall Nicole and Goldman, with numerous tributes flooding X.
"Peace and light to the families of Ron Goldman and Nicole Brown Simpson," one person writes.
Another X user posts: "RIP Ron Goldman and Nicole Brown Simpson!"
Reports suggest that O.J. had been facing a battle with prostate cancer in recent times. His health had deteriorated in recent months, leading to his admission to hospice care.
In an earlier tweet this year, he reassured his Twitter followers about his health, stating, "My health is good."
"Obviously I'm dealing with some issues, but hey I think I'm just about over it and I'll be back on that golf course hopefully in a couple of weeks."
"On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer," his family confirms.
