Netflix has released its highly anticipated docuseries, American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson, which revisits the infamous case surrounding the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman. Arriving on January 29, 2025, this four-part series, directed by Floyd Russ, delves not only deep within the details of the 1994 double murder but also reflects on the sensational trial of O.J. Simpson, who was controversially acquitted of the charges.
The series, described by Russ as one of the most iconic true crime narratives, connects the dots to contemporary social movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter, indicating how the historical case still reverberates through today’s discussions about race and justice. Highlighting themes of domestic violence and the legal system, Russ pointed out, “OJ has become the most epic, iconic, crazy, disastrous true crime story ever.”
The horrific events began on June 12, 1994, when Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman were brutally murdered outside Nicole’s home. The ensuing trial, which garnered immense media attention, began in January 1995 and concluded with Simpson’s not guilty verdict on October 3, 1995, after only three hours of jury deliberation. The case transformed the Brentwood neighborhood, where the murders occurred, and ignited discussions about race relations and police conduct.
Throughout the series, we hear emotional testimonies from those close to the case. Kim Goldman, Ron’s sister, offers her perspective, reflecting on the pain of her brother's death three decades later. She expressed the burden of revisiting the past, stating, “If I wasn’t [talking about it], my brother wouldn’t be part of it and I have to…”
The series also features interviews with key players such as former LAPD detective Mark Fuhrman, who stated, “I can’t change people’s minds,” and prosecutor Christopher Darden, who became infamous for asking Simpson to try on the bloody gloves, famously remarking, “Christopher Darden and the glove, married together for all eternity.” Darden’s plea for justice reflects his enduring frustration with the case’s outcome, saying he still feels responsible for letting down the families of the victims.
Much attention is drawn to the multitude of evidence linked to Simpson, from DNA samples to witness accounts. The docuseries uncovers previously overlooked elements from the trial, such as testimonies from witnesses never called to the stand and evidence like fingerprints and garments of interest not collected. According to Detective Tom Lange, who investigated the case, “We nicknamed this case the turkey on a platter. It’s all there.” This phrase captures the intense scrutiny each piece of evidence faced as the trial unfolded.
Notably, the involvement of Fuhrman, who was accused of racism and planting evidence, became pivotal to the trial's outcome. “It is what it is,” he remarked about his past, reflecting on the legacy he will leave behind. His prior use of racial slurs was introduced as evidence against him, causing significant doubt among jurors about the legitimacy of the prosecutorial narrative.
Russ also discussed the extension of the trial’s impact. He expressed regret over the emotional toll on participants, particularly during Kim Goldman’s emotional interview segments, where tears and heartache captured the unresolved grief from her loss. Their experiences showcase how personal lives became intertwined with the public spectacle of the trial.
The docuseries attempts to reframe perceptions of the case by connecting it to broader societal issues and drawing parallels to today’s realities. Ross stated, “When I polled young viewers, many did not know who O.J. really was. They are aware of his sports career but missing the complete picture.” He fears the trial’s lessons are becoming less understood by newer generations.
One of the docuseries' most shocking revelations arises from Mike Gilbert, Simpson's former agent, who claims Simpson made chilling statements about the night of the murders. Gilbert recalled asking Simpson about the incident, and the response was unsettling: “If Nicole wouldn’t have opened the door with a knife, she would still be alive.” Such statements prompted Gilbert to re-evaluate his knowledge of Simpson, leading him to distance himself from the former football star.
The legacy of the case extends beyond Simpson's acquittal. While he evaded criminal charges, he was later found liable for wrongful deaths during civil proceedings and was ordered to pay $33.5 million to the victims' families. “The jury got it right and I will sleep well every night,” defense attorney Carl E. Douglas noted triumphantly, contrasting with the sentiments expressed by many involved with the trial.
American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson aims to unravel the events of three decades ago — not only by detailing crimes and trials but by bringing to light stories, perspectives, and evidence often overshadowed by the emphasis on celebrity and scandal. For audiences who lived through it, and for those discovering it for the first time, the documentary serves as both a historical record and a contemporary exploration of justice and perception.