O.J. Simpson is a name synonymous with NFL stardom, broadcasting, acting, but also a controversial personal life marked by a trial and acquittal for the murders of his second wife and her friend, Ron Goldman.
Simpson passed away on April 10, 2024, after battling prostate cancer, surrounded by his family and friends, including his children from his first marriage to Marguerite Whitley.
Marguerite Whitley may not be a household name, but she is best known for being OJ Simpson’s first wife. Whitley, born and raised in Los Angeles, California, met Simpson in high school through dating his close friend, Al Cowlings.
The couple tied the knot in 1967 when Simpson was just 19 years old and Whitley was 18. They went on to have three children together – Arnelle, Jason, and Aaren.
Simpson’s rise to stardom as an NFL player led to a move to New York with Whitley and their family. However, his infidelity, ego, and immaturity strained their relationship, leading to their divorce in 1979. Whitley received a settlement, alimony, and child support, but maintained a relatively private life out of the spotlight.
Whitley remarried twice after her divorce from Simpson but remained largely out of the public eye.
She has expressed support for Simpson during his trial for the murders of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman, believing in his innocence. Whitley currently resides in California, with a net worth estimated to be around $3 million.
While OJ Simpson’s legacy is marked by both his career achievements and personal controversies, Marguerite Whitley remains a less-known figure who played a significant role in his life story.