O.J. Simpson, the former NFL star widely known for his controversial legal battles, has died at the age of 76 after a long battle with prostate cancer. Simpson, who first gained fame as a football player and actor, passed away surrounded by his family.

Before the trials that clouded his later years, Simpson had a distinguished career in American football, playing notably for the Buffalo Bills and the San Francisco 49ers. He earned accolades such as Most Valuable Player and was an Offensive Player of the Year. Beyond sports, he appeared in films such as “Naked Gun” and “Towering Inferno.”

However, Simpson’s legacy is heavily marked by his legal issues. In 1994, he was charged with the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ronald Goldman. The following year, 1995, he was acquitted in a criminal trial that became a global media sensation, often referred to as the “trial of the century.” Although acquitted criminally, a civil court later found him liable for the deaths, imposing a $33.5 million penalty in favour of the victims’ families.

Simpson’s troubles continued as he was convicted in 2008 for armed robbery in Las Vegas and was released on parole in 2017. Despite these controversies, Simpson maintained his innocence concerning the murder charges in his later years.

His death was followed by a range of public reactions reflecting on both his sports achievements and his much-debated legal history. His attorney confirmed his passing, highlighting that Simpson was at peace and grateful for the support he received during his illness. Simpson’s family has requested privacy during this time, reflecting on his profound and complex impact on sports and popular culture.