Khloe Kardashian's father is Robert Kardashian, a prominent American attorney and businessman of Armenian descent, best known for his close friendship with O.J. Simpson and his role in Simpson's 1994 criminal trial. Born on February 27, 1944, in Los Angeles, California, Robert built a public profile through high-profile legal work and reality television appearances with his family. He married Kris Houghton (later Kris Jenner) in 1978, and they had three children: Kourtney, Kim, and Khloe. Robert passed away on September 30, 2003, from esophageal cancer. This profile outlines his background, professional highlights, and enduring influence on the Kardashian-Jenner family identity.
Robert Kardashian: Background And Early Life
Robert George Kardashian was born in Los Angeles in 1944 and grew up in a working-class Armenian-American household. He attended the University of Southern California, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration, and later earned a Juris Doctor from Southwestern Law School. He built a career as a defense attorney and businessman, establishing a successful firm handling civil and criminal matters. His early reputation for professionalism and loyalty laid the groundwork for his later high-profile cases and public standing.
Ethnicity And Cultural Background
Robert was of Armenian descent, and he often spoke about the importance of family, resilience, and cultural identity within the Kardashian-Jenner lineage. This background informs the family's narrative around heritage and tradition, complementing the diverse ethnic roots present across his children's maternal and paternal lines.
Marriage To Kris Jenner And Children
Robert married Kris Houghton in 1978, and they had three children: Kourtney, Kim, and Khloe. The couple later divorced in 1991, but they maintained a cooperative co-parenting relationship. Robert remained actively involved in his children's lives until his health declined. His presence during formative years shaped the family dynamic, and his legacy continues to influence how his children discuss family history and values.
Professional Career And Notable Cases
Robert's legal career included high-profile work, most notably his defense of O.J. Simpson during the 1994 murder trial. He managed Simpson's civil litigation afterward and was known for his meticulous preparation and courtroom demeanor. While the criminal trial ended with an acquittal, the civil case concluded with a wrongful death judgment. Robert's involvement in this case brought him widespread media attention and enduring public recognition.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert George Kardashian | Birth Certificate, Biography Sources |
| Date of Birth | February 27, 1944 | Public Records, Official Biography |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, USA | Geographic Records, Family Statements |
| Education | USC (BS), Southwestern Law School (JD) | School Registers, Legal Directories |
| Marriage to Kris Jenner | 1978–1991 | Marriage Records, Interviews |
| Children | Kourtney, Kim, Khloe Kardashian | Family Announcements, Legal Documents |
| Notable Case | O.J. Simpson defense (1994) | Court Records, News Archives |
| Date of Death | September 30, 2003 | Death Certificate, News Reports |
| Cause of Death | Esophageal cancer | Medical Reports, Family Statements |
The O.J. Simpson Trial And Public Recognition
Robert's most widely known professional engagement was defending O.J. Simpson in the 1994 criminal murder trial. He served as a lead defense attorney and played a key organizational role, managing logistics and client communication. His work showcased his commitment to due process and zealous representation. The trial's televised proceedings brought him into national focus, establishing a public profile that extended beyond legal circles.
Relationship With Khloe Kardashian
Khloe has frequently spoken about her close bond with her father, noting his guidance, sense of humor, and steadfast support. Robert encouraged her athletic interests and personal confidence, and their relationship remained strong throughout his life. In public interviews, she has highlighted how his work ethic and integrity shaped her perspective on family and career, making him a lasting influence despite his early passing.
Death And Legacy
Robert passed away on September 30, 2003, at age 59, after a battle with esophageal cancer. His death prompted widespread reflection on his life, career, and role in high-profile legal history. The Kardashian family has continued to honor his memory through charitable activities and public acknowledgments. His influence persists in the values and narratives shared by his children, including Khloe, who often reference his role as a foundational pillar of their family story.
Family Impact And Cultural Influence
Robert's legacy extends beyond legal headlines; he helped establish the Kardashian-Jenner family's public identity through his visibility and professionalism. His Armenian heritage, work-life balance, and parental approach contribute to the family's ongoing narrative around authenticity and resilience. The enduring public interest in his life underscores how his actions and choices continue to resonate across generations and platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Khloe Kardashian's father? Khloe's father is Robert George Kardashian, an attorney and businessman.
- When was Robert Kardashian born? He was born on February 27, 1944.
- What was Robert Kardashian known for professionally? He was known for his defense of O.J. Simpson during the 1994 trial and his civil litigation practice.
- When did Robert Kardashian pass away? He died on September 30, 2003, from esophageal cancer.
- How many children did Robert Kardashian have with Kris Jenner? They had three children: Kourtney, Kim, and Khloe.
- Is there verified information about Robert Kardashian's ethnicity? Yes, he was of Armenian descent, with family roots tied to Armenia.