Orenthal James “OJ” Simpson was once celebrated as one of the greatest running backs in National Football League (NFL) history. From his record-breaking career in professional sports to his appearances in Hollywood films, Simpson achieved widespread fame in the 1970s and 1980s. However, the name OJ Simpson eventually became more associated with controversy than celebrity, largely due to his highly publicized legal battles.
In 2025, questions about his status continue to circulate: Is OJ Simpson still alive?
The answer is no. OJ Simpson passed away on April 10, 2024, at the age of 76, due to complications related to prostate cancer. He died at his home in Las Vegas, surrounded by family.
This article revisits the extraordinary rise, turbulent fall, and complex legacy of a man whose life captured global attention for decades.
Early Life and Athletic Success
OJ Simpson was born on July 9, 1947, in San Francisco, California. Raised in a working-class family, Simpson faced challenges early in life, including poverty and health issues. Despite these obstacles, he excelled in athletics. His outstanding performance in high school football earned him a scholarship to City College of San Francisco, and later to the University of Southern California (USC).
At USC, Simpson became a national sensation. In 1968, he won the Heisman Trophy, the most prestigious award in college football. Known for his agility, speed, and vision on the field, he quickly became a top prospect for the professional leagues.
NFL Career and Records
Simpson was the first overall pick in the 1969 NFL Draft, selected by the Buffalo Bills. Initially, he struggled to meet expectations. However, under a new coaching staff, his performance dramatically improved. In 1973, Simpson made history by becoming the first player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season—a record achieved in only 14 games.
Over the course of his 11-season career, which included a final stint with the San Francisco 49ers, Simpson amassed over 11,000 rushing yards. He was named NFL MVP, selected to five Pro Bowls, and later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.
He was regarded as one of the most dominant running backs to ever play the game.
Transition to Acting and Media
Upon retiring from professional football in 1979, Simpson pursued a career in acting and broadcasting. His charisma and fame made him a sought-after personality. He appeared in several films, including the popular “Naked Gun” series, and served as a sports commentator for ABC and NBC.
For a time, Simpson’s second career in Hollywood flourished. He was viewed as a crossover star—respected in sports, recognized in film, and admired by fans across America.
But his image would soon change forever.
The 1994 Murder Case and Trial
On June 12, 1994, OJ Simpson’s ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman were found murdered outside her Los Angeles home. The following days led to one of the most unforgettable moments in American television history: the slow-speed police chase involving Simpson in a white Ford Bronco, broadcast live across the nation.
Simpson was arrested and charged with double homicide. The 1995 criminal trial, often called the “Trial of the Century,” captivated the world. With high-profile attorneys, forensic controversies, and media saturation, the trial lasted nine months and divided public opinion.
On October 3, 1995, Simpson was acquitted of all criminal charges, though he was later found liable in a 1997 civil trial and ordered to pay $33.5 million in damages to the victims’ families.
Legal Troubles and Imprisonment
Despite his acquittal in the murder case, Simpson’s legal troubles did not end there. In 2007, he was involved in an incident in Las Vegas, where he and others attempted to retrieve sports memorabilia at gunpoint. Simpson was charged with armed robbery, kidnapping, and other felonies.
In 2008, he was convicted and sentenced to 33 years in prison, with eligibility for parole after nine. He served nine years at Lovelock Correctional Center in Nevada and was granted parole in 2017.
Following his release, Simpson returned to Las Vegas and largely kept a low profile. He occasionally commented on social media, but avoided major public appearances.
Health Challenges and Death
In May 2023, Simpson revealed he was undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, a condition that affects thousands of men in the United States. Initial reports suggested he was optimistic and responding well to treatment. However, by early 2024, his health reportedly declined.
On April 10, 2024, Simpson died at his home in Las Vegas. His family confirmed that he passed peacefully, surrounded by his children and grandchildren.
No public funeral or memorial service was held. His body was cremated, and his remains were given to his family. His death closed a chapter on one of the most controversial public figures in recent American history.
Legacy and Public Reaction
OJ Simpson’s death sparked mixed reactions. Some paid tribute to his athletic achievements, recalling his records, awards, and contributions to the game of football. Others, however, focused on the victims of the 1994 murders and the pain their families endured.
Major sports organizations, including the NFL and the Buffalo Bills, did not release official statements following his death. News outlets focused on both the extraordinary highs and the devastating lows of his life, attempting to evaluate a legacy that remains deeply polarized.
Simpson’s life story continues to serve as both a cautionary tale and a subject of debate in legal, media, and cultural spheres.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OJ Simpson still alive in 2025?
No. OJ Simpson died on April 10, 2024, at the age of 76.
What was the cause of death?
Simpson died of complications related to prostate cancer.
Where did he pass away?
He passed away at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Was there a public memorial or funeral?
No public service was held. Simpson was cremated, and his remains were given to his family.
What is his legacy in the NFL?
Despite legal controversies, Simpson is remembered as a record-breaking athlete and a Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee.
What were his last known public appearances?
In the years before his death, Simpson occasionally appeared in online videos and shared commentary through his social media accounts.
Conclusion
OJ Simpson’s life was a study in contrasts: legendary athlete, Hollywood celebrity, criminal defendant, and convicted felon. His journey from Heisman Trophy winner to media spectacle continues to intrigue and divide the public.
While his physical presence ended in April 2024, the debates about his legacy persist. For some, he will always be remembered as a pioneer on the football field. For others, he remains a symbol of legal injustice and celebrity privilege.
In the end, Simpson’s story is not easily summarized. It is a reflection of fame, tragedy, fallibility, and the public’s fascination with the complexities of human behavior.