Oprah mused publicly last week that she'd like to bag a confession from Simpson, who was accused of slashing Simpson and Goldman to death in 1994. Despite strong evidence, Simpson walked after the "trial of the century" because defense lawyers successfully raised doubts about Los Angeles' police handling of the investigation.

Now there's reports that O.J. has confessed to an Oprah producer -- a claim that the television talker denies.

But the U.K.'s Daily Mail is reporting that "Oprah has been in touch with O.J. for the past year...She contacted him in prison to explore the possibility that he might give her an interview. 'He has always been a big fan of hers, but for a long time he was reluctant to say he did the crime or give the details of how it happened.''

The Mail claims its source is an insider at the National Enquirer which plans to report: "He told the producer: "Tell Oprah that yes, I did it. I killed Nicole, but it was in self-defence. She pulled a knife on me and I had to defend myself".'

An Oprah spokesperson has denied the claim.

Here's my questions: Would Oprah deny the report if it were true? Who benefits most from that rumor flying? Perhaps a flailing cable network whose ratings have been below expectations? And does making the confession sound like a fait accompli pressure Simpson to actually confess?

Inquiring minds want to know.