Robert Kardashian was more than just a name in the headlines. Long before the world came to associate “Kardashian” with reality TV and lifestyle empires, Robert was a respected attorney, businessman, and a key figure in one of the most sensational legal cases of the 20th century. His life, relationships, and legacy have shaped not just a family dynasty, but also American pop culture and legal history. So, what made Robert so central to these moments? Let's take a closer look at the man who helped define a legacy—both in courtrooms and living rooms.

As the father of Kim, Kourtney, Khloé, and Rob Kardashian, Robert played a major role in raising the stars that would later dominate television screens. But before that, he was a successful entrepreneur, a loyal friend, and a legal figure who stood by O.J. Simpson during one of the most controversial trials in U.S. history.

Whether you're interested in the evolution of the Kardashian brand, the drama surrounding the Simpson trial, or the personal life of a man who quietly influenced so much, this deep dive into Robert Kardashian's story is for you. Let’s start with the basics—his life, his career, and how he became a household name.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Robert Kardashian
• Early Life and Career
• Robert Kardashian and the O.J. Simpson Trial
• Personal Life and Marriages
• Robert Kardashian’s Legacy
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Robert Kardashian

Early Life and Career

Robert George Kardashian was born in Los Angeles in 1944 to Armenian immigrant parents. Growing up in a tight-knit community, he developed a strong work ethic early on. After graduating from the University of Southern California with a degree in business administration, he went on to study law at the same university’s law school.

Before becoming a household name, Robert built a solid career in business. He co-founded a successful clothing store called Dash, which later inspired a new generation of the same brand run by his daughters. He also ventured into real estate and investments, building a comfortable life for his growing family.

His legal career, though not as high-profile as some of his peers, earned him respect among colleagues and clients. He was known for his loyalty, sharp mind, and calm demeanor—traits that would later play a role in one of the most watched legal cases in American history.

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Robert Kardashian and the O.J. Simpson Trial

Robert Kardashian’s most public moment came in 1995, when he joined the legal defense team of his close friend, O.J. Simpson, during the trial for the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman. The case gripped the nation, and Robert was often seen standing by Simpson’s side throughout the proceedings.

Though he wasn’t the lead attorney, Robert’s presence in the courtroom—and later in the media—was significant. He was known for reading Simpson’s famous letter during a press conference, in which O.J. proclaimed his innocence while also expressing sorrow for the tragedy. The moment was controversial and left many confused about Robert’s role and beliefs.

Despite the trial ending in Simpson’s acquittal, the fallout was long-lasting. Robert faced public scrutiny and criticism for his involvement, yet he maintained his support for his friend. His decision to stand by O.J. highlighted a deep sense of loyalty that defined much of his personal life.

Personal Life and Marriages

Robert Kardashian married three times, and each relationship contributed to the complex family structure that would later become the focus of a reality TV empire. His first marriage was to Ellen Pierson, with whom he had his eldest daughter, Kourtney. The couple divorced in the early 1990s.

He then married Jan Ashley, who gave birth to his second daughter, Kim. Their marriage was short-lived, and after their divorce, Robert married Kris Jenner, who became the most well-known of his spouses and a central figure in the Kardashian family’s rise to fame.

With Kris, he had Khloé and Rob, completing a family of four children. While the family faced challenges, including his frequent absences due to work and the O.J. trial, Robert was deeply loved by his children. His passing in 2003 left a void that, for many, was never truly filled.

Robert Kardashian’s Legacy

Robert’s legacy is intertwined with both the legal world and pop culture. Though he never sought the spotlight, his decisions—particularly his involvement in the Simpson trial—ensured his name would be remembered. His children, especially Kim Kardashian, have often spoken about how much he influenced their lives.

His Armenian heritage, business acumen, and loyalty to friends painted a picture of a man who valued family and integrity. Even though his name is often mentioned in the shadow of scandal, those who knew him personally describe a generous, thoughtful, and driven individual.

Today, the Kardashian brand is global, but it all started with a man who quietly laid the foundation—Robert George Kardashian. His influence is still felt in the values his children carry and the way they approach both business and personal life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Robert Kardashian a lawyer?

Yes, Robert Kardashian was an attorney and businessman. He earned his law degree from the University of Southern California and practiced law throughout his career. He is best known for being part of O.J. Simpson’s legal defense team in 1995.

How many children did Robert Kardashian have?

Robert Kardashian had four children: Kourtney, Kim, Khloé, and Rob. He was married three times—first to Ellen Pierson, then to Jan Ashley, and finally to Kris Jenner, who is the mother of Khloé and Rob.

Did Robert Kardashian support O.J. Simpson during the trial?

Yes, Robert Kardashian was a close friend of O.J. Simpson and part of his defense team during the 1995 murder trial. He publicly supported Simpson, even reading a controversial letter from him during a press conference.

Robert’s support for Simpson was rooted in a long-standing friendship, but it also drew criticism and confusion from the public and media. His loyalty to Simpson remained even after the trial ended in acquittal.

Learn more about the rise of the Kardashian family and how Robert’s influence shaped their early years. If you're interested in the evolution of celebrity culture, read more about how reality TV changed everything.

For those who want to explore more about the Simpson trial and its cultural impact, Biography.com offers a detailed overview of the case and its lasting effects.