Orenthal James 'O.J.' Simpson, commonly known as O.J. Simpson or 'The Juice,' was an iconic American figure renowned for his exceptional career as a professional football player, actor, and broadcaster. Born in San Francisco, California, Simpson rose to prominence as a running back for the University of Southern California (USC) Trojans, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1968 as the nation's top college football player. Drafted first overall by the Buffalo Bills in 1969, he played 11 seasons in the National Football League (NFL), primarily with the Bills, and later with the San Francisco 49ers. Simpson shattered records, becoming the first player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season in 1973, earning him widespread acclaim as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. His athletic achievements were complemented by a successful transition into entertainment, starring in films like 'The Towering Inferno' (1974) and 'The Naked Gun' series, and serving as a sports commentator for ABC and NBC.

Simpson's life took a dramatic turn in 1994 when he was charged with the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ron Goldman. The subsequent 'Trial of the Century' in 1995 captivated the nation, highlighting issues of race, celebrity, and justice in America. Simpson was acquitted in the criminal trial on October 3, 1995, but a year later, a civil jury found him liable for the wrongful deaths, ordering him to pay $33.5 million in damages, much of which remains unpaid. His post-trial life was marred by further legal troubles, including a 2007 conviction for armed robbery and kidnapping in Las Vegas, leading to a 33-year prison sentence; he was granted parole in 2017 and released in 2018. Simpson maintained a public presence through social media and commentary, often denying involvement in the murders and criticizing media portrayals.

Throughout his later years, Simpson lived in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he died of prostate cancer on April 10, 2024, at age 76. His legacy remains deeply polarizing: celebrated for his sports prowess and charisma, yet overshadowed by the infamous trial, civil liability, and subsequent felony conviction. Simpson's story continues to influence discussions on fame, race relations, and the American criminal justice system.