Former NFL star and broadcaster, O.J. Simpson lost the fight to cancer at the age of 76 as announced by his family on Thursday via X.
Simpson’s battle with prostate cancer became public knowledge about two months ago, according to a statement by Pro Football Hall of Fame President Jim Porter. The Hall of Fame player had been undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
“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,” a statement from his family said.
It is worth noting that his sporting achievements and fame were overshadowed by his 1995 acquittal in the brutal murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman.
Despite being recognized as a highly accomplished athlete – winning the 1968 Heisman Trophy during his senior year as a running back at the University of Southern California and playing for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills and later the San Francisco 49ers – O.J. Simpson’s legacy was significantly marred by the controversy surrounding his legal troubles and the murder case.