Former NFL star O.J. Simpson, famously acquitted of murder charges in a televised trial, has passed away at the age of 76 from cancer. According to CNBC, the news was announced by his family. 

The Buffalo Bills drafted Simpson as the first overall pick in the 1969 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as one of the most dominant running backs in the league, earning the nickname "The Juice." Throughout his career, Simpson became known for his exceptional speed, agility, and elusiveness on the field.

In 1973, Simpson had a record-breaking season, becoming the first player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season, an unmatched feat until several decades later. He was awarded the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for his outstanding performance that year.

Simpson was selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times and earned numerous accolades, including All-Pro honors. He consistently led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest running backs of his era.

He retired in 1979 after a decade-long career at the age of 32.

Despite his athletic achievements, Simpson's NFL legacy became overshadowed by the controversial murder trial surrounding the deaths of his ex-wife and a friend.

O.J. Simpson's Murder Trial

O.J. Simpson's murder trial, often referred to as the "trial of the century," took place in 1995 and captivated the nation when he was accused of murdering his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ronald Goldman, in Los Angeles. The trial gained media attention due to Simpson's celebrity status, the gruesome nature of the crime, and the racial dynamics involved.

The prosecution argued that Simpson committed the murders out of jealousy and rage, presenting DNA evidence, witness testimony, and other circumstantial evidence to support their case. Simpson's defense team, led by attorney Johnnie Cochran, argued that Simpson was framed by a racist police force and presented alternative theories of the crime.

The trial proceedings were televised, allowing millions of viewers to follow the courtroom drama in real time. Then, in October 1995, after a lengthy trial, the jury acquitted Simpson of all criminal charges, delivering a verdict that shocked many observers. 

However, Simpson was later found liable for the deaths in a civil lawsuit filed by the victims' families.

Until now, the O.J. Simpson murder trial remains one of the most widely discussed and debated legal cases in American history, leaving a lasting impact on popular culture and perceptions of the justice system.

But in addition to his achievements in the NFL and his notorious murder trial, O.J. Simpson also made a name in the business world.

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O.J. Simpson's Legacy in Business 

According to Black Enterprise, O.J. Simpson was once a promising pitchman and entrepreneur. However, similar to his NFL run, his career later became clouded by his murder trial case.

Simpson, with his charismatic persona and endorsement deals with major corporations like Hertz, ABC, and Wilson Sporting Goods, also ventured into other business realms. He served on boards, including Infinity Broadcasting Corp., and operated O.J. Simpson Enterprises, which owned hotels, restaurants, and franchises like Honey Baked Ham and Pioneer Chicken stores. 

His divorce from Nicole in 1992 revealed a substantial net worth of $10.8 million, with a majority of its portion attributed to his endorsements. His past achievements as an entrepreneur and pitchman were eclipsed by the negative impact of his downfall in the courtroom, which ultimately tarnished his reputation in business.

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