Norm Macdonald Invites O.J. Simpson After Years of Criticism

Norm Macdonald and O.J. Simpson share a remarkable history, especially considering Macdonald’s comedic critique of Simpson following the 1995 murder trial. Macdonald was prominent as the Weekend Update host on Saturday Night Live when he famously quipped, “It is finally official, murder is legal in the state of California,” in reference to Simpson’s acquittal for the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman.

Despite warnings from NBC executives, Macdonald continued to humorously address Simpson’s controversial status. Allegedly, NBC president Don Ohlmeyer’s friendship with Simpson led to Macdonald’s firing from SNL, as he pushed boundaries with his jokes about the athlete.

Attempts to Connect with O.J. Simpson

Over the years, Macdonald had several near meetings with Simpson. The first instance occurred by chance while golfing with Kato Kaelin, a key witness in the murder trial. Macdonald recalled considering approaching Simpson but hesitated because Kaelin expressed apprehension about the encounter.

Kaelin himself commented on this amusing encounter, recounting how a woman he was with recognized Simpson on the golf course.

Interview Attempts

• In 2011, while hosting a sports show on Comedy Central, Macdonald sought an interview with Simpson, agreeing not to discuss the murders.
• Later, he made another attempt for his podcast, Norm Macdonald Live. Macdonald shared that Simpson’s lawyer initially affirmed Simpson’s willingness to participate.
• However, they later backed out, implying that Macdonald’s past criticisms influenced Simpson’s decision.

Shifting Perspectives

As time passed, Macdonald’s views on Simpson evolved. In 2019, during an appearance on Lights Out with David Spade, he humorously referred to Simpson as “the greatest rusher in the history of the NFL.” This statement incited laughter and prompted Macdonald to add, “Maybe I was the greatest rusher to judgment,” suggesting a playful acknowledgment of their intertwined legacies.

Interestingly, following that show, Macdonald reportedly received a text message from Simpson thanking him for his comments and inviting him for a round of golf. This gesture indicated a surprising camaraderie between the two after years of tension.

The saga of Norm Macdonald and O.J. Simpson serves as a testament to how comedy can influence public perception and personal relationships in unexpected ways.