OJ Simpson, the former American football star, actor and notorious suspected double murderer, has died of cancer at 76. His 1995 trial, and controversial acquittal, for the deaths of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman, provided one of the world’s most-watched popular culture events of the last century. "On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace," the statement from his family said. One of the most successful and popular sports stars of his generation, Simpson’s career with the San Francisco 49ers and Buffalo Bills, as well as his post-retirement starring roles in Hollywood movies such as The Naked Gun, was ultimately overshadowed by the 1994 murders and their aftermath. The events heralded a blending of celebrity and crime that has become a staple of media ever since. OJ Simpson, ex-NFL star who was acquitted of murder, dies aged 76 Varied reactions to OJ Simpson’s death reflect a complicated life