Larry David, known for co-creating “Seinfeld” and creating “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” had a remarkable run-in with OJ Simpson on June 12, 1994. This day is notably remembered as the day Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman were murdered. David recounts this encounter in his authorized biography, “Emperor of Nothing: The Making of Larry David,” written by Blake J. Harris.
On that fateful morning, David was at the Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles with his then-wife Laurie, their newborn daughter Cazzie, and comedy writer Alan Zweibel with his wife, Robin. Zweibel vividly remembers this breakfast, stating, “because that night O.J. Simpson killed Nicole [Brown Simpson] and Ron Goldman.” The biography shares how Zweibel had a brief interaction with Simpson during breakfast and again at a dance recital later that day.
“We met him in the dining room the day of the murder!” David said. O.J. Simpson, later accused of the murders, was acquitted in 1995.
Zweibel describes the encounters with Simpson, mentioning his familiarity with him from their shared history at the University of Buffalo and incidents at “Saturday Night Live” (SNL). Zweibel had written for the show when Simpson hosted in 1978, fostering a mutual connection through a friend over the years.
The biography also covers Zweibel’s observations of Simpson at a dance recital that afternoon. He recounts Simpson expressing surprise at seeing Zweibel twice in one day. Zweibel replied using Simpson’s nickname, “Hey, Juice!” but in retrospect felt he should have warned him to stay home.
Simpson and Brown married in 1985 and separated in 1992. The tragic murders of Brown and her friend Goldman remain notable events. Although Simpson was tried and acquitted, discussions about the case continue, including claims of potential efforts to dispose of evidence.
Besides his connection to this historic event, David’s biography dives into his earlier years as a New York City comedian. Known for memorable onstage moments like walking off mid-set, he often confronted audience members, earning a reputation for being unpredictable.
David’s pre-fame life included varied jobs that his mother disapproved of, urging him instead to work in the postal service. David humorously recalls rejecting her suggestion, specifically citing his aversion to delivering mail in hail.
Larry David’s biography, “Emperor Of Nothing: The Making of Larry David,” offers a detailed look at the life and experiences that shaped this influential comedian. The book becomes available on October 20.