Former American footballer O.J. Simpson has died at the age of 76, according to reports.

In a statement on X, his family said: “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.”

Simpson was tried for murder in October 1995, in what was dubbed the “trial of the century”. He was found not guilty of murdering two people.

The former NFL running back said in February that he was undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. Nicknamed The Juice, he rose to fame in US sport for his achievements as part of the Buffalo Bills.

He was enrolled in the sport’s hall of fame and was the first running back to gain 2,000 yards in a season in 1973.

But he also became known as a pitchman, football commentator and actor, appearing in a number of TV and film roles including the Naked Gun movie series.

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