ESPN’s Adam Schefter found himself at the center of controversy after including O.J. Simpson in his annual memoriam post. The tribute, meant to honor notable figures who passed away in 2024, featured various names. However, Simpson’s inclusion sparked backlash, given his complicated legacy as both an NFL legend and a man found civilly responsible for the deaths of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman.
Addressing the criticism, Schefter appeared on Barstool Sports’ Pardon My Take, where he explained his rationale and reflected on the reaction. He stood by his decision while acknowledging the controversy it caused.
Adam Schefter’s Explanation And Response
Schefter revealed that he keeps a year-long file of notable deaths, seeing it as a way to pay respect to those who have passed. “Every year, I keep a file of people who lost their lives. I’m just fascinated by it,” he said on Pardon My Take. “I just think that it’s a way to pay respect to people who have lost their lives.”
When it came to including Simpson, Adam Schefter admitted he didn’t initially anticipate the backlash. “The amazing thing is, I’m like, ‘the guy died. He had an accomplished life – good and bad,’” he noted. “I didn’t even think anything of it. And then all of a sudden, I’m like, ‘oh. Controversy.’”
The controversy highlights the difficulty of covering figures with complex legacies. While some believe it was appropriate to acknowledge Simpson’s football accomplishments, others feel his criminal history outweighs his athletic achievements. Despite the backlash, Schefter appears to stand by his decision, albeit with some lessons learned from the public reaction.
