The life of Orenthal James “OJ” Simpson, a figure who transitioned from a celebrated football icon and Hollywood star to a notorious double murder suspect, has held America spellbound for decades. June 12, 2024, marks 30 years since the tragic deaths of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and Ronald Goldman, a waiter. Both victims were brutally murdered outside Nicole Brown Simpson’s Los Angeles residence on the night of June 12, 1994. Even three decades later, this infamous crime officially remains unsolved, casting a long shadow over legal history and popular culture. From the globally televised criminal trial that captivated audiences worldwide to subsequent charges for kidnapping and armed robbery that led to imprisonment, this timeline explores the pivotal moments in OJ Simpson’s eventful and controversial life, examining what exactly OJ Simpson did throughout his years in the public eye and behind closed doors.
From USC Football Glory to Heisman Winner
O.J. Simpson’s rise to fame began in the 1960s when he became a standout college football player. As a running back for the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles, Simpson quickly garnered national attention. His exceptional speed and agility on the field made him a dominant force. In 1968, his senior year, Simpson’s remarkable performance earned him college football’s most prestigious accolade, the Heisman Trophy, solidifying his status as a football legend in the making.
O.J. Simpson showcasing his running skills during a USC Trojans college football game against California in Los Angeles, 1968.
NFL Stardom and Record-Breaking Seasons
Building on his college success, O.J. Simpson entered the National Football League (NFL) in 1969 as the first overall pick in the NFL draft. He joined the Buffalo Bills, where he would cement his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Simpson’s career reached its peak in 1973 when he achieved a historic milestone: becoming the first NFL player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season. This record-breaking achievement not only underscored his athletic prowess but also redefined expectations for running backs in the league. His speed, power, and charismatic personality made him a fan favorite and a household name across America.
O.J. Simpson in action as a running back for the Buffalo Bills during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Buffalo, New York, September 3, 1977.
Simpson retired from professional football in 1979, leaving behind a trail of accolades and unforgettable moments. His contributions to the sport were formally recognized in 1985 when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, forever enshrining his place among football’s elite.
Hollywood and Hertz: Transition to Entertainment
After retiring from the NFL, Simpson seamlessly transitioned into a career in Hollywood and advertising. His charismatic personality and broad appeal made him a natural fit for the entertainment industry. He became widely recognized as a spokesperson for Hertz rental cars in a series of popular commercials throughout the 1970s, further boosting his public profile. Simpson also ventured into acting, appearing in films such as “Capricorn One” in the 1970s, demonstrating his versatility beyond the football field. He achieved further cinematic success in the late 1980s and early 1990s with his role in “The Naked Gun” film series, showcasing his comedic talents to a global audience.
A scene from “The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!” featuring O.J. Simpson alongside Leslie Nielsen.
Marriage to Nicole Brown and Tumultuous Relationship
O.J. Simpson’s personal life also remained in the public eye. Following a previous marriage to Marguerite Whitley, with whom he had children, Simpson married Nicole Brown in 1985. Their marriage produced two children, Sydney and Justin. However, their relationship was reportedly marred by domestic issues and tensions. In 1992, after seven years of marriage, Nicole Brown Simpson filed for divorce, officially ending their tumultuous union and setting the stage for tragic events to come.
O.J. Simpson and Nicole Brown Simpson attending a party at the Harley Davidson Cafe in New York City, circa 1993.
The Gruesome Murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman
The evening of June 12, 1994, began routinely for Nicole Brown Simpson, who dined with her family at a Los Angeles restaurant. Ronald Goldman, a waiter at the same restaurant, became inadvertently entangled in the unfolding tragedy when he visited Nicole’s home later that night to return glasses left behind by her mother. Around midnight, a scene of horror was discovered at Nicole Brown Simpson’s residence: both she and Ronald Goldman had been brutally stabbed to death outside her home.
O.J. Simpson was in Los Angeles on the evening of June 12 but departed on a late-night flight to Chicago. Upon his return to Los Angeles the following day, he was questioned by police regarding the murders but was not immediately arrested. This initial questioning marked the beginning of Simpson’s direct involvement in the investigation, although at this stage, his role was still ambiguous in the public eye.
The White Bronco Chase: A Nation Watches
On June 17, 1994, just days after the murders, prosecutors made the decision to order O.J. Simpson to surrender. Instead of complying, Simpson became a fugitive, fleeing in a white Ford Bronco driven by his friend, Al Cowlings. This act of evasion initiated a dramatic low-speed police chase across the freeways of Southern California. The pursuit unfolded live on national television, captivating an estimated 95 million viewers.
News helicopters broadcasted aerial footage, while crowds gathered along overpasses and roadsides, turning the chase into a surreal public spectacle. The image of the white Bronco became instantly iconic, symbolizing the unfolding drama and uncertainty surrounding O.J. Simpson. After an extended period of tension and suspense, Simpson eventually surrendered to authorities and was taken into custody, marking a pivotal moment in the developing legal saga.
Spectators waving as police cars follow the white Ford Bronco carrying O.J. Simpson during the infamous slow-speed chase on the 405 freeway in Los Angeles, June 17, 1994.
The white Ford Bronco, driven by Al Cowlings with O.J. Simpson inside, trailed by Los Angeles police vehicles on a Los Angeles freeway, June 17, 1994.
“The Trial of the Century” and Acquittal
The 1995 criminal trial of O.J. Simpson for the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman became a national obsession, often referred to as “the trial of the century.” The proceedings were televised daily, drawing massive viewership and intense public scrutiny. Simpson assembled a high-profile defense team, dubbed the “Dream Team,” which included prominent lawyers like Johnnie Cochran and Robert Shapiro.
The defense argued that Simpson was wrongly accused and that evidence had been mishandled or even fabricated by law enforcement. In contrast, the prosecution presented evidence including blood samples found at the crime scene and at Simpson’s residence, arguing that Simpson was a jealous and abusive ex-husband. A key moment in the trial occurred when Simpson was asked to try on gloves believed to have been worn by the murderer; the gloves appeared too small, leading to the defense’s powerful slogan, “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit,” famously delivered by Johnnie Cochran.
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O.J. Simpson with his defense legal team during the opening of his double homicide trial, January 5, 1995.
O.J. Simpson attempting to put on leather gloves presented as evidence in the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman during his trial, June 15, 1995.
On October 3, 1995, the jury delivered a verdict that shocked and divided the nation: O.J. Simpson was acquitted on all criminal charges related to the murders. Despite the acquittal, public opinion remained sharply divided, and the case continued to fuel debate about race, justice, and celebrity in America. Simpson maintained his innocence throughout and after the trial.
Civil Suit and Guilty Verdict
Despite the criminal acquittal, the legal battles for O.J. Simpson were far from over. In 1997, the families of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman pursued a civil lawsuit against Simpson for wrongful death. In contrast to the criminal trial’s outcome, the civil jury found Simpson liable for the deaths and ordered him to pay $33.5 million in damages to the Brown and Goldman families. This verdict, though not carrying criminal penalties, represented a significant legal judgment against Simpson and further cemented public perception of his culpability in the deaths.
Las Vegas Robbery and Criminal Conviction
Years after the murder trial and civil suit, O.J. Simpson once again found himself facing criminal charges. In September 2007, he led a group of men into a Las Vegas hotel and casino. Simpson claimed he was attempting to retrieve sports memorabilia and personal items that belonged to him, but the confrontation escalated, and accusations of armed robbery and kidnapping arose.
Simpson was arrested and charged with multiple felony counts. In 2008, he was found guilty of armed robbery and kidnapping and sentenced to a lengthy prison term of up to 33 years. Judge Jackie Glass, during sentencing, expressed her view that Simpson’s actions were not a simple attempt to recover personal items but a serious criminal event involving violence and disregard for the law. Simpson’s conviction and imprisonment marked a stark fall from grace for the former sports and entertainment icon.
O.J. Simpson standing with his attorney Yale Galanter during his sentencing at the Clark County Regional Justice Center in Las Vegas, December 5, 2008.
Parole and Release from Prison
After serving nine years in prison, O.J. Simpson became eligible for parole. In July 2017, he appeared before the parole board and was granted parole. He presented his account of the Las Vegas incident, claiming he was only trying to recover his personal property and expressed remorse for his actions. The parole board, considering his conduct in prison and other factors, approved his release.
O.J. Simpson arriving at an evidentiary hearing in Clark County District Court in Las Vegas, May 16, 2013.
On October 1, 2017, O.J. Simpson was released from the Lovelock Correctional Institute in Nevada, marking the end of his prison term. Upon release at age 70, his attorney indicated that Simpson desired to live a quiet life, spending time with family and pursuing personal interests like golf. He relocated to Las Vegas and maintained a relatively low public profile, though he did engage on social media platforms, commenting on current events.
Death
O.J. Simpson’s life concluded on April 10, 2024, when he succumbed to cancer at the age of 76. His family announced his death the following day, requesting privacy during their time of grief. Simpson’s death marked the final chapter in a life marked by extraordinary highs and devastating lows, leaving behind a complex and controversial legacy that continues to fascinate and provoke discussion in American society.
O.J. Simpson signing release paperwork upon his departure from Lovelock Correctional Institute, Nevada, October 1, 2017.
