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By: Nathaniel J. Greene, Community and Culture Reporter

Orenthal James Simpson, also known as “OJ,” an iconic figure whose achievements in football were overshadowed by his notoriety stemming from legal troubles, passed away on Wednesday as confirmed by his family. He was 76 years old.

Battling cancer, Simpson spent his final days in hospice care, surrounded by loved ones. His family released a statement on X stating, “On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, lost his fight with cancer, with his children and grandchildren by his side.”

Despite his remarkable football career, Simpson is perhaps best known for his role in a highly publicized murder trial that captivated the nation, becoming a significant cultural moment that highlighted deep racial divisions. The trial for the 1994 murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman became a national obsession, with Simpson’s acquittal being one of the most watched moments in TV history.

Simpson’s legacy began with his football prowess, first making a name for himself at the University of Southern California (USC) as an outstanding running back, capturing the Heisman Trophy in 1968. He was the first overall pick in the 1969 NFL draft by the Buffalo Bills, where he achieved legendary status, notably for becoming the first player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985 was a testament to his extraordinary career on the field.

Beyond sports, Simpson became a cultural icon, starring in memorable advertising campaigns, notably for Hertz rental cars, and pursuing a career in acting and sports commentary. His transition from sports to mainstream celebrity was significant, reflecting changes in how athletes, especially African American athletes, were perceived by the public.

However, Simpson’s legacy is complex, marred by his controversial acquittal in the murder trial and his later conviction and imprisonment for robbery and kidnapping related to a 2007 incident in Las Vegas. Despite the varied chapters of his life, Simpson’s impact on American sports, culture, and legal history remains unparalleled, marking him as a figure of enduring fascination and debate.