In his early days, Simpson gained recognition on the football field, clinching the Heisman Trophy in 1968 and later becoming the top selection in the 1969 NFL draft. Despite his athletic triumphs, he would be forever linked to the 1994 murder investigation involving his former wife and her acquaintance. The ensuing events captivated audiences across the nation and were later depicted in the compelling 2016 television series The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story.
Although acquitted in the criminal trial, Simpson faced a civil lawsuit from the Brown and Goldman families in 1997, resulting in a substantial $33.5 million judgment against him. His legal troubles persisted when he was arrested in 2007 for armed robbery and kidnapping in Las Vegas. In 2008, he received a 33-year prison sentence, serving nearly nine years behind bars.
In early 2024, the father of five disclosed his battle with cancer, refuting claims of being in hospice care.
Let’s take a retrospective look at Simpson’s controversial life through a series of photographs.
O.J. Simpson’s Early Days
O.J. Simpson was born on July 9, 1947, in San Francisco. He excelled in football during his high school years and continued his athletic journey at the University of Southern California after playing for City College of San Francisco. Simpson’s standout performances as a running back for the Trojans culminated in winning the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 1968.
O.J. Simpson’s NFL Success
Selected as the first overall pick in the 1969 draft, Simpson joined the Buffalo Bills, where he showcased his exceptional talent until 1978 before moving on to the San Francisco 49ers until 1982. Known by the moniker “Juice,” Simpson made history by being the first NFL player to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a single season in 1973. His record for the highest yards-per-game average in a season, standing at 143.1, remains unbroken. Simpson’s achievement of over 2,000 rushing yards in a 14-game regular season format is unmatched to this day.
O.J. Simpson’s Retirement and Accolades
Following his retirement in 1982, Simpson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985. During his induction speech, he expressed gratitude to his coaches, teammates, and fans, particularly acknowledging the unwavering support he received from Buffalo Bills fans throughout his career.
O.J. Simpson’s Post-Football Pursuits
Transitioning from football, Simpson ventured into broadcasting, joining ABC as a commentator for Monday Night Football alongside renowned personalities such as Frank Gifford, Howard Cosell, Don Meredith, and Joe Namath. He continued in this role until the 1986 season.
O.J. Simpson’s Acting Career
Simultaneously, Simpson explored acting opportunities, appearing in various television series and films, including the iconic 1977 miniseries Roots and the Naked Gun trilogy, among others.
O.J. Simpson’s Personal Life
Simpson’s personal life saw two marriages. His first marriage to Marguerite L. Whitley in 1967 resulted in three children. After their divorce in 1979, Simpson married Nicole Brown Simpson in 1985, with whom he had two children. The couple’s marriage ended in 1992.
The Tragic Events and Legal Battles
The tragic murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman in 1994 thrust Simpson into the spotlight as a prime suspect. The subsequent televised police chase involving Simpson in his white Ford Bronco gripped the nation. Despite his plea of not guilty, Simpson’s 1995 murder trial became a media sensation, showcasing high-profile attorneys and generating widespread public interest.
O.J. Simpson’s Later Legal Issues
In 2007, Simpson faced further legal troubles when he was arrested for armed robbery and kidnapping in Las Vegas. Subsequently, he was convicted in 2008 and sentenced to 33 years in prison, serving close to nine years before his release.
O.J. Simpson’s Legacy and Passing
After his release, Simpson maintained a low profile in Las Vegas, engaging with fans on X and sharing updates on various aspects of his life. In February 2024, he addressed rumors of being in hospice care, dispelling such claims.
Tragically, on April 10, 2024, Simpson passed away at the age of 76 after battling cancer, as confirmed by his family, who requested privacy and respect during this difficult time.