OJ Simpson's murder case in focus again with Netflix documentary
What's the story
Netflix has launched a new docuseries, American Manhunt: OJ Simpson, which delves into the 1994 double murder of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman.
The series also revisits the sensational 1995 murder trial where former football star OJ Simpson was controversially acquitted.
Premiered on January 29, director Floyd Russ told The Post that he believes the story is "more relevant now than ever before."
Director's insight
Why Russ believes the story is 'more relevant now'
Floyd pointed to recent societal changes like the #MeToo movement, Black Lives Matter, and a spike in true crime interest as reasons for its renewed relevance.
"We think of OJ as the most epic, iconic, crazy, disastrous, true crime story ever," Russ said.
"It has themes of domestic violence, themes of race, themes of [police] versus prosecution versus defense, and who controls the narrative. Those are topics that I think people are talking about."
Emotional revelations
'American Manhunt' features emotional interviews and new perspectives
Russ revealed that many interviewees expressed "regret," a topic he feels could be discussed for hours.
He described Kim Goldman's interview as particularly challenging and emotionally charged, leading to tears on set.
"Our sound mixer was crying...So there was [irony] to hear her sobbing in the corner. If you lose a loved one, the pain doesn't go away 30 years later. And for her to live through that on camera with us...I hope the audience understands how special that is."
Participation declined
Kris Jenner and Marcia Clark declined participation in docuseries
Russ revealed that Kris Jenner, a friend of the Simpsons and ex-wife to Simpson's lawyer Robert Kardashian, was approached for the series but eventually declined.
Meanwhile, the director also mentioned that the timing of the documentary is purely coincidental.
"He actually died when we were about 75% [done making it]. O.J. was sick, but he told people on social media that he was fine. So...it's like, he lied to everybody, all the way to his deathbed."
He died in 2024.
Overlooked evidence
'American Manhunt' explores overlooked evidence in Simpson case
Along with fresh perspectives, American Manhunt: OJ Simpson also looks at overlooked evidence from the original trial. This includes the bloody glove and unusual items found in Simpson's bedroom.
The series hopes to invite viewers to reconsider the case from different angles.
Despite containing some graphic photos, Russ stressed their intention wasn't to shock audiences but rather highlight the severity of this crime of passion.