The O.J. Simpson book backlash is growing. Some FOX affiliate stations are refusing to air the interview; advertisers are refusing to buy commercial air time; and boycotts of bookstores that carry the book are planned. I’d like to know who is surprised by the uproar. I’m certainly not.

People who thought O.J. was innocent before are wondering about his guilt now. To make matters worse, it has been reported that the book is not O.J.’s confession as has been reported; it is merely a hypothetical and possible setup for sequel. Can you imagine some folks demanding their money back for the book?

In the midst of this madness, the brilliance of the late attorney Johnnie Cochran is more and more evident. Cochran was able to keep this slug from serving time. The O.J. Simpson murder case divided racial groups in the United States. Whites thought he was guilty and Blacks (not me!) thought him innocent. This book has resulted in more Blacks questioning the verdict. Mark Fuhrman is walking around with his chest out and Cochran must be rolling in his grave. Go figure.

When all is said and done, I pity Simpson. He is clearly out of control and he doesn’t even realize it. Simpson has pocketed his $3.5 million for the book and now he’s waiting for more money to roll in. Let’s see what Rupert Murdoch and FOX TV’s next move will be because it’s all about the Benjamins.

© 2006 VANESSA BYERS, Vanessa: Unplugged

Labels: Commentary, Crime