BET Awards Face Backlash Over O.J. Simpson Tribute

The 2024 BET Awards have sparked significant controversy after including O.J. Simpson in their 'In Memoriam' segment. Simpson, who passed away from cancer in April at 76, was honored alongside other late celebrities, but his inclusion received backlash due to his infamous acquittal in the 1994 murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman. Families of the victims, including Fred Goldman and Tanya Brown, have publicly condemned the tribute, calling it inappropriate and demanding an apology. Audience reactions ranged from stunned silence to uncomfortable laughter and vocal disapproval on social media. BET has not issued a statement in response to the criticism.