OJ Simpson, the former American football player and actor charged with armed robbery and kidnapping, has died aged 76.

A family statement released on Simpson's social media account today read: "On April 10, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer.

"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."

Simpson, born in San Francisco, had risen to fame as a college football player for the University of Southern California before playing in the NFL, where he was regarded as one of the sport's greatest ever running-backs.

After his sporting success, Simpson pursued a career in acting, becoming a popular public figure in the US - but his stardom was overshadowed by his trial - and contentious acquittal - over the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown and her friend, Ron Goldman.