Orenthal James Simpson, famously known as OJ, the former American football icon who gained notoriety for his controversial acquittal in a double murder trial, has passed away at the age of 76, as confirmed by his family.
Simpson, a standout college football player who later excelled in the NFL, rose to prominence for his athletic prowess.
In 1995, he made headlines when he was acquitted of the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown, and her friend, in a trial that captivated the nation.
According to his family’s Twitter statement, Simpson succumbed to cancer on Wednesday, surrounded by his loved ones.
The 1994 arrest of Simpson, suspected in the deaths of Brown and Ron Goldman, sparked a sensational trial that gripped the entire country.
The trial, widely regarded as one of the most infamous of the 20th century, saw prosecutors presenting compelling evidence, including blood, hair, and fiber analysis linking Simpson to the crime scene.
In a dramatic courtroom moment, prosecutors famously asked Simpson to try on a pair of blood-stained gloves found at the scene, which he struggled to fit, leading to his lawyer’s iconic phrase, “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit.”
Despite the intense scrutiny, Simpson maintained his innocence throughout, proclaiming he was “absolutely 100% not guilty,” a verdict that stirred considerable controversy.
Subsequently, in 2008, Simpson faced a different legal battle, this time convicted of armed robbery and sentenced to 33 years in prison, though he was granted parole after serving nine years.
Before his legal troubles, Simpson enjoyed widespread public adoration, celebrated for his athletic achievements, acting career, and lucrative endorsements with prominent American brands.
His football career began in college and flourished in the NFL, notably with the Buffalo Bills, where he played from 1969 to 1977.
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