The passing of O.J. Simpson at the age of 76 has brought to light the profound impact his life had on the way we consume news and view athletes.
While many still associate Simpson with the infamous white Ford Bronco chase and the murder trial of his wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ronald Goldman, his legacy extends far beyond his football career.
Simpson’s trial and the subsequent events that unfolded afterwards, such as his arrest, publication of a book discussing the murders, and wrongful-death conviction, changed the way we perceive athletes.
Before Simpson, athletes were often idolized and placed on a pedestal, shielded from the chaos and turbulence present in everyday life. However, Simpson’s trial shattered this illusion, showing that athletes are not immune to personal struggles and misdeeds.
The trial of O.J. Simpson marked a pivotal moment in how sports news was covered, blurring the lines between hard news and entertainment.
The trial not only captivated audiences, but also set the stage for future high-profile trials involving athletes such as Rae Carruth, Aaron Hernandez, Barry Bonds, Plaxico Burress, and Michael Vick. The Disney-fication of athletes’ lives was shattered, leading fans to view their favorite sports icons with a more critical eye.
