In February, amidst swirling rumors about his health, O.J. Simpson firmly refuted claims that he was battling cancer and had entered hospice care, voicing his denial through a video on X (formerly Twitter).
However, just two months following his denial, Simpson passed away.
The intrigue surrounding his health denial was heightened by a TMZ report indicating that there were no widespread claims of him being in hospice care. Despite this, Simpson’s appearance in recent months, marked by the use of a cane, hinted at declining health.
Simpson’s death leaves behind a complicated legacy intertwined with his football achievements and a lingering financial obligation exceeding $96 million to Fred Goldman, following a 1997 verdict that found Simpson liable for the wrongful death of Goldman’s son, Ron.
The news of Simpson’s passing has evoked a spectrum of reactions ranging from sorrow to indifference. ESPN reporter Jeremy Schaap articulated a blunt assessment following the announcement on SportsCenter, emphasizing that despite Simpson’s acquittal, a careful examination of the evidence would lead many to conclude his guilt in the murders he was accused of. Schaap expressed a lack of sorrow over Simpson’s death.
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Caitlin Jenner also had a very telling reaction to her fellow athlete’s passing:
Simpson’s legal troubles extended beyond the infamous murder trial. In 2008, he was convicted for armed robbery and kidnapping stemming from a 2007 incident in Las Vegas, where Simpson and associates held two sports memorabilia dealers at gunpoint, attempting to reclaim items Simpson claimed were stolen from him.
Initially sentenced to 33 years, Simpson was granted parole in 2013 after serving nine years.