Orenthal James Simpson (July 9, 1947 – April 10, 2024) was a renowned NFL running back, primarily with the Buffalo Bills, and later an actor and media personality. His career achievements include winning the Heisman Trophy, being the first to rush over 2,000 yards in a season, and holding the single-season yards-per-game record.
His legacy was overshadowed by his 1995 acquittal for the murders of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman. Convicted of armed robbery in 2008, he was paroled in 2017 and died of cancer at 76.
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O.J. Simpson Net Worth
O.J. Simpson has a net worth of $3 million. In his 1992 divorce filing, Simpson estimated his net worth at $10.8 million, equivalent to $25 million today. Half of this was from his Brentwood estate, bought in 1977 for $650,000.
In 1992, his monthly income was $55,000, mostly from Hertz endorsements. He paid Nicole $10,000 monthly child support and a $433,750 lump sum, also giving her a San Francisco rental property.
Early life
Born in San Francisco, O.J. Simpson was the son of Eunice, a psychiatric orderly, and Jimmy Lee, a custodian and cook who was also a well-known drag queen and later announced he was gay. Simpson’s maternal grandparents were from Louisiana. His aunt named him Orenthal after a favorite actor.
Growing up in the Potrero Hill housing projects, Simpson battled rickets and wore leg braces. He joined the Persian Warriors street gang and was arrested three times. Encouraged by Willie Mays to reform, Simpson excelled in sports at Galileo High School, playing tackle and fullback, and graduated in 1965.
Career
O.J. Simpson, nicknamed “Juice” as a play on his initials and for his power, was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 1969 as the number-one pick. He demanded the largest contract in pro sports history: $650,000 for five years, leading to a standoff with owner Ralph Wilson.
Simpson struggled initially but broke 1,000 rushing yards in 1972. In 1973, he became the first NFL player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a season. After a successful career with the Bills and a brief stint with the 49ers, Simpson retired in 1979 and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.
Personal life
At 19, Simpson married Marguerite Whitley, and they had three children: Arnelle, Jason, and Aaren, who tragically drowned in 1979. Simpson met Nicole Brown in 1977 while still married.
After divorcing Whitley in March 1979, he married Nicole in February 1985. They had two children, Sydney and Justin. Their marriage ended in 1992 following Simpson’s no contest plea to spousal abuse in 1989. They attempted reconciliation in 1993 but were unsuccessful.
How much did OJ Simpson pay the family?
The Goldman family was awarded a $33.5 million wrongful death judgment against Simpson. However, they have only received close to $133,000 from Simpson and claim he still owes them more than $50 million.
Conclusion
O.J. Simpson’s journey from a celebrated athlete to a controversial figure serves as a stark reminder of the impermanence of fame and fortune. His life story, rife with professional highs and personal lows, reflects the complexities of public perception, the American justice system, and the lasting impacts of one’s choices.
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FAQs about O.J. Simpson’s Net Worth
- What is O.J. Simpson’s current net worth?
O.J. Simpson has an estimated net worth of $3 million. - How did O.J. Simpson make his money?
Simpson made his fortune through a successful football career, acting roles, broadcasting gigs, and other endorsements. - How much does O.J. Simpson receive from his NFL pension?
Simpson draws a monthly pension of approximately $10,600 from the NFL. - How much did O.J. Simpson owe the Goldman family from the judgment against him?
Simpson was initially ordered to pay $33.5 million, which has grown to over $40 million with interest. - Does O.J. Simpson still earn money from his past acting roles?
Yes, Simpson receives a pension from the Screen Actor’s Guild and may earn residuals from some of his past work.
