O.J. Simpson, the former NFL star who later faced numerous legal battles, has died.
His attorney, Malcolm LaVerne, confirmed that Simpson succumbed to prostate cancer on April 10, closing a chapter on a turbulent public life.
The New York Post reported that Simpson was 76 at his death. Despite health challenges, he periodically expressed optimism about his recovery, especially in one of his last public statements in February 2024.
Having lived a storied life, Simpson was as much a household name for his athletic exploits as for his legal troubles. He achieved fame as a football player, primarily with the Buffalo Bills, before transitioning to roles in films and commercials.
A crucial part of Simpson's public image stemmed from a highly publicized trial. In 1995, he was acquitted in the murder cases of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman.
However, in 1997, a civil court found Simpson liable for their deaths. His legal troubles continued, culminating in a 2008 conviction for armed robbery and kidnapping, for which he served nine years in prison.
In May 2023, Simpson publicly disclosed his struggle with cancer. This battle with illness marked his final year, during which he appeared frail and was often seen using a cane.
Simpson's health appeared to see a brief upturn in February 2024, when he shared about his condition on X, expressing gratitude towards those who had reached out and revealing his hopes of soon returning to golf. Unfortunately, his health deteriorated quickly thereafter.
“Thank you to all the people who reached out to me. My health is good. Obviously, I’m dealing with some issues, but I think I’m just about over it, and I’ll be back on that golf course hopefully in a couple of weeks,” Simpson expressed optimistically in February.
Malcolm LaVerne shared details about the final days of Simpson, who spent his last period in hospice care. Plans following his death involve cremation, and notably, his brain will not be donated for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) research, a common practice for former athletes.
Simpson's interaction with the Gambino crime family was among the many allegations that peppered his later years, adding to a complex image far removed from his sports hero persona. These chapters of his life painted a picture that sparred with his professional achievements.
His attorney, Malcolm LaVerne, confirmed from the death certificate, "The death certificate confirmed cancer was the cause of his April 10 death." While Simpson dealt discretely with his health issues, he allowed fans a glimpse into his journey, maintaining a public presence until the end.
As a sports icon, media personality, and a man of legal controversies, O.J. Simpson’s story encapsulates the highs and lows faced by public figures. His death echoes the conclusion of a life filled with dramatic twists and leaves a legacy that will be debated for years to come.
