“On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer,” a post on X, formerly Twitter, stated. “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.”
Born Orenthal James Simpson on July 9, 1947, in San Francisco, California, he rose from a troubled youth to become one of the greatest running backs in the history of American football. Simpson attended the University of Southern California (USC), where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1968 as the nation's most outstanding college football player. His subsequent professional career in the National Football League (NFL), primarily with the Buffalo Bills, was marked by numerous records and accolades, including the first player to rush over 2,000 yards in a season, a feat he accomplished in 1973.
Simpson's charm and charisma made him a popular figure off the field as well, leading to a successful career in acting and sports broadcasting following his retirement from football in 1979.
However, his public persona was indelibly marred by his legal troubles in the mid-1990s. Simpson was famously tried for the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman in 1994. The trial, extensively covered by the media, ended in his acquittal in 1995 but left a divided public opinion regarding his guilt.
In 2007, Simpson's legal issues resurfaced when he was arrested in Las Vegas and charged with armed robbery and kidnapping. In 2008, he was found guilty and sentenced to 33 years in prison, with a minimum of nine years without parole. He was granted parole in July 2017, after serving almost nine years, citing his good behavior and compliance with prison rules.
Despite his controversial life, Simpson's impact on American sports and culture remains significant. His rise and fall story has been the subject of numerous documentaries and films, reflecting the complex interplay of race, celebrity, and justice in America.
Survived by his children, Simpson leaves behind a complicated legacy that continues to evoke strong emotions and debate. His contributions to football are remembered by sports enthusiasts around the world, even as his legal battles continue to provoke discussions about celebrity and accountability.
Simpson's family has requested privacy during this time and announced that a private funeral service will be held with a public memorial planned for a later date. As the news of his passing spreads, both his supporters and detractors are reminded of the enduring impact of his tumultuous life.
