Entering the NFL as one of the most receivers in history, O.J. Simpson’s promising career faced an abrupt halt after just 11 seasons due to injuries. Following his departure from football, the Heisman Trophy winner became embroiled in controversy, facing charges in a double murder case that captivated the nation.
However, Simpson’s notoriety reemerged when he made a controversial comment about New York Jets superstar Aaron Rodgers’ season-ending injury in connection to the tragic events of 9/11. As his image took a hit, news surfaced that Simpson had missed a chance to reclaim his hero status among fans, marking another chapter in the complex narrative of his post-NFL life.
Arnold Schwarzenegger discloses OJ Simpson could have been The Terminator
In the realm of cinematic history, James Cameron’s 1984 blockbuster, “The Terminator,” marked a turning point, both for the filmmaker’s career and for Arnold Schwarzenegger, who found himself catapulted into stardom, per Metro. However, what many may not know is that the Terminator almost had a different face, none other than American football icon O.J. Simpson.
Schwarzenegger recently shared on The Rich Eisen Show that film producers initially envisioned OJ Simpson as the menacing Terminator. The former Governor of California dropped this surprising revelation, shedding light on the alternate casting choice that could have reshaped the iconic film franchise.
“The producers went with me because they believed that ‘this guy would look better as the Terminator because he looks like a ‘killing machine’ and O.J., they thought that O.J. didn’t look like a killing machine, and so they passed on him and asked me to play the Terminator,” disclosed Schwarzenegger.
The decision, according to the action star, was grounded in appearance. The producers believed that Schwarzenegger exuded the intimidating aura needed for the role, resembling a true “killing machine.” In a twist of fate, the Terminator, as we know it came to life through Schwarzenegger’s portrayal.
While Schwarzenegger admits that corroboration might be challenging to find, as many are reluctant to acknowledge Simpson’s potential involvement, he emphasized that both he and James Cameron are well aware of the truth. In the face of industry denial.
“Now in the studio system, everyone denies that ever happened… but Jim Cameron and I, we both know that it is a fact.”
Though the former player’s name was dropped from the cast list, with his on-field accolades, he will always be alive in the NFL fans’ minds. OJ Simson spent his first nine seasons with the Buffalo Bills before playing his final two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, bragging for an illustrious career with a record of 3,423 yards and 36 touchdowns.
Has OJ Simpson worked in any movie?
Following his illustrious NFL career, OJ Simpson seamlessly transitioned from sports hero to Hollywood performer. His handsome face and winning smile graced multiple movies, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry.
From his role in “Nothing But True” (1998) to appearances in “75 Seasons: The Story of the National Football League” (1994), “Naked Gun 33 ⅓: The Final Result” (1994), “No Place to Hide” (1993), “CIA: Code Name Alexa” (1992), to “Naked Gun 3 ½: The Smell of Fear” (1991), Simpson showcased his versatility.
Prior to that, in 1986, he became a cast member in HBO’s football sitcom, “1st & Ten,” embodying the fictional former running back great T.D. Parker for five years.
Do you think OJ Simpson would have successfully played the Terminator? Tell us what you think in the comments section.
