Owen Wilson has reportedly turned down the opportunity to star in a movie about O.J. Simpson, in which the late football player is depicted as innocent.
As previously reported, Simpson, who died due to cancer on April 10 at the age of 76, left behind a legacy marked by controversy and legal battles.
His family confirmed in a statement: "He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace."
Originally gaining fame playing football, Simpson's life took a turn on June 12, 1994, when the brutal murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman, sent shockwaves through the upscale Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles.
The nation was gripped by the infamous white Ford Bronco chase on June 17, 1994, captivating 95 million viewers as Simpson, accompanied by his friend Al Cowlings, embarked on a slow-speed pursuit through the streets of Los Angeles.
Subsequently, Simpson found himself at the center of a high-profile investigation by law enforcement agencies.
The ensuing trial, which captured global attention, reached a dramatic climax in 1995 with a verdict watched by an estimated 150 million viewers.
In a decision that remains controversial to this day, Simpson was found innocent.
It would seem that Hollywood is wasting no time in bringing Simpson's life to the big screen, though they won't be getting one of the actors they wanted.
Titled The Juice, the film aims to portray Simpson as innocent of the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman.
Directed by British filmmaker Joshua Newton, The Juice has been described as a "satirical thriller" delving into the conspiracy theories surrounding the trial.
Newton revealed to The Hollywood Reporter that he had approached Wilson for the role of Douglas McCann, a real-life attorney who investigated various conspiracy theories related to the case. "Owen Wilson was perfect for the role," said Newton.
Despite initial enthusiasm from both Wilson and his agent, the actor ultimately declined the offer.
Newton recalled: "We offered him $12m. But at the end of the lunch, Owen stood up and said, ‘If you think I’m going to take the lead role in a movie about how OJ didn’t do it, you’ve got to be kidding me.’"
Nevertheless, production for The Juice continues with Boris Kodjoe set to play Simpson and Charlotte Kirk portraying Nicole Brown Simpson.
Newton aims to complete the film by October 3, coinciding with the 29th anniversary of Simpson's not-guilty verdict.
