O.J. Simpson’s Children: Their Lives Then and Now
O.J. Simpson:
- Full Name: Orenthal James Simpson
- Profession: Former NFL player, broadcaster, and actor
- Net Worth Before Death: Estimated at $3 million
- Age at Death: 77 years old (Died in 2025)
- Spouses: Marguerite Whitley (m. 1967–1979), Nicole Brown Simpson (m. 1985–1992)
- Children: Arnelle Simpson, Jason Simpson, Aaren Simpson (deceased), Sydney Simpson, Justin Simpson
O.J. Simpson’s name is forever tied to the infamous 1994 murder trial that gripped the world. While his legal battles and media appearances kept him in the public eye, his children—especially Sydney and Justin, whom he shared with Nicole Brown Simpson—chose a more private life. Here’s a look at how each of his children navigated their lives during the trial and where they are today.
Related: Who is OJ Simpson and what did he do?
Arnelle Simpson: The Eldest and Most Vocal Supporter
Life During the Trial:
Arnelle Simpson, born in 1968 to O.J. and his first wife, Marguerite Whitley, was one of the few family members who stood by her father’s side throughout the trial. She testified in his defense in 1995, describing his emotional reaction upon hearing of Nicole Brown Simpson’s death.
Where Is She Now?
Arnelle continued to support O.J. through his legal troubles, including his 2017 parole hearing after his 2008 armed robbery conviction. She has worked in the entertainment industry, including for a rapper and in fashion show production. She has also appeared in documentaries such as O.J.: Trial of the Century and remained close to her father until his passing in 2025.
Jason Simpson: A Life Away from the Spotlight
Life During the Trial:
Born in 1970, Jason Simpson was O.J.’s second child with Marguerite. He kept a low profile during the trial, though he was present at key moments. His name briefly surfaced in alternative theories regarding the case, but he never publicly addressed them.
Where Is He Now?
Jason built a career in the culinary world, working as a chef and later as a culinary director at a restaurant in Atlanta. In 2021, he gave a rare interview on The Food That Binds podcast, where he briefly mentioned his father. Despite his efforts to remain private, he was included in Netflix’s 2025 documentary American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson, which revisited his involvement in the infamous 1994 Bronco chase.
Aaren Simpson: A Tragic Loss
Life During O.J.'s Marriage to Marguerite:
Born in 1977, Aaren was O.J. and Marguerite’s youngest child. Tragically, she drowned in the family pool just before her second birthday in 1979.
How O.J. Remembered Her:
O.J. rarely spoke publicly about Aaren’s passing, stating in a 2004 Today Show interview that he and Marguerite never discussed it. Her death remains a heartbreaking chapter in the Simpson family’s history.
Sydney Simpson: From Tragedy to a Private Life
Life During the Trial:
Sydney Brooke Simpson was only 8 years old when her mother, Nicole Brown Simpson, was murdered. Initially raised by Nicole’s family, she was later placed back in O.J.’s custody after his acquittal. The Brown family fought for custody of Sydney and Justin for years, but their efforts ended when the children became legal adults.
Where Is She Now?
Sydney attended Boston University, where she earned a degree in sociology. She later moved to Atlanta before settling in Florida, where she pursued a career in real estate. She has largely stayed out of the spotlight but maintains connections with some members of the Brown family. According to reports from 2024, court documents suggested Sydney and Justin faced legal troubles while living with O.J. in Florida, though details remain private.
Justin Simpson: Building a New Life
Life During the Trial:
Born in 1988, Justin Ryan Simpson was only 5 years old when his mother was murdered. He was sleeping inside their home at the time of the attack and was too young to fully grasp the events that followed.
Where Is He Now?
Justin, like his sister, moved to Florida and found success in real estate. In 2016, he gave an interview with Tampa Bay Times about his career and life away from the media frenzy surrounding his father. By 2022, he revealed that he was expecting a child with his partner. A close family friend, David Brobeck, confirmed in 2024 that both Sydney and Justin had built stable, happy lives with their own families.
A Private Future for the Simpson Children
O.J. Simpson’s children have lived vastly different lives, but most of them have chosen to step away from the spotlight. Sydney and Justin, in particular, have worked to distance themselves from their father’s legacy, focusing instead on building their own careers and families.
Despite the public scrutiny surrounding O.J.’s life, his children have forged their own paths—some maintaining a connection with their father, while others sought privacy and normalcy. As they continue their lives post-O.J., their story remains one of resilience and survival.
