Two decades later, the O.J. Simpson trial continues to captivate audiences, judging from the premiere of The People V. O.J. Simpson on Tuesday night. The trial has also permanently altered the way we consume news and entertainment, as this Uproxx video shows.
For instance, the trial paved the way for reality TV, by showing how IRL happenings could be even crazier and more compelling than something scripted. People tuning in to O.J.’s court proceedings day after day eventually gave rise to Survivor, and The Real Housewives franchise. O.J. Simpson also inspired the scripted CSI franchise and its popularity by introducing concepts like DNA testing as evidence-gathering into the public consciousness.
The trial made celebrities out of almost everyone involved, including Kato Kaelin, who capitalized on testifying at the trial into reality and game show appearances. He didn’t do as well as Faye Resnick, though, who turned her friendship with victim Nicole Brown Simpson into a role on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
Last but not least, we can thank the O.J. Simpson for the Kardashians. Kris Jenner was friends with both O.J. and Nicole, and appeared on Oprah about it.
