O.J. Simpson, the college and NFL football legend, Hollywood actor and pitchman who was famously acquitted of murdering his wife and her friend in 1994, resulting in the televised trial of the century, died Wednesday of cancer, his family has announced. He was 76.
“On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer. 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. -The Simpson Family.”
Simpson was among the greatest football players ever, winning a Heisman Trophy and national at USC before moving to the NFL.
