Brian Piccolo Biography
Back in 2002, I wrote a?Brian Piccolo biography that is by far my most visited page on the site.? I have received hundreds of e-mails from well-wishers on his subject.? So I’m creating this post in case anyone wants to post comments on this Chicago Bears Legend.? Please click on “leave a response” below.
I only found the article about Brian P. because I was on the net tonight (the result of an unusual experience). I was having dinner in Bourbonnais this evening (8/11) with my family and noticed Gale Sayers at the next table. Like you, I don’t feel that it is proper etiquette to bother famous persons, in public. So, upon finishing dinner, I merely walked by Gale and quietly said, “Go Kansas,” and he smiled. Then I sort of whispered, “Thanks for some great memories.” He nodded his head, said, “I appreciate it,” and I left him to his dinner with his beautiful wife. Part of me wanted an autograph to proudly show-off to my friends, but fortunately a better part of me wanted him to enjoy his surprising-unknown presence, to others in the place. I spent a long life practicing law and protecting others’ privacies - Gale Sayers’ should be no different. That I created no scene and that my granddaughter may have learned something about the feelings of others tonight, I am pleased. Nonetheless, after reading your tribute to Brian, I wonder just how much Gale still misses his friend and if his feelings would not have been better served, tonight, if I had stolen a bit more of his private time and said something in memory of “Pic,” too.
i got my first football cards at 8 years old and dick butkus happened to be one of them and my father told me to hold onto it and that he was the best def. player in the game and called him an “animal”..i was hooked..the bears became my favorite team[not easy for a kid from jersey] because of 1 card and comment..i saw brians song a year later at 9..i rememeber hiding my head in a pillow so no one in the family room would see me cry..it struck me 2 ways..1 was anyone could get cancer even a “bear”..and 2 i was scared to death of getting it..im 44 now ….i dont watch football anymore because the players of today no longer respect the game..but my framed card of butkus still hangs on the wall of my den and the memories of walking down the street with my dad talking about butkus ,sayers,pic,and all the bears..
I watched Brian’s song tonight for maybe the 100th time and I, too, cannot watch it without crying. My son was named after him, as I have always loved everything he stood for. He will be 26 in about 5 months, so watching it tonight really hit me hard. Brian Piccolo was one of those people that everybody in sports and in life should emulate.
I have always loved football and the Chicago Bears are my all-time favorite team. I have watched Brian’s Song so to the point that I know the movie verbatim. Brian Piccolo was a fighter and had great tenacity even in the midst of devasting circumstances. I am also thankful for the real sincere friendship shared between Brian Piccolo and Gayle Sayers that truly emulated what real brotherhood ultimately should stand for! Forever Brian P. in our hearts! If anyone knows what website the Chicago team pictures can be found on could you please email me @ ka.gandy@gmail.com Thank You and God Bless
Yesterday, I was watching the “Tim McCarver Show” and I probably would have turned it off, if it wasn’t for the fact that Gale Sayers is the guest on the show. I immediately flashed back to my parents’ living room in the early ’70’s where I was watching the original “Brian’s Song”. The courage that both men displayed was truly amazing! I must say the movie really choked me up back then. It forced me to read “I am Third!”. What these two athletes did to help progress racial harmony in this country can never be understated. Brian’s courage is something everyone should aspire to. These were two great men and great friends. Watching that show yesterday made realize that as bad as things may seem, you should never give up. There is not a person out there who can not learn something from Brian Piccolo’s story. Rest in peace, Brian!
My dad is dying of cancer right now…Brian Piccolo was born in 1943 and my dad in 1941, so they’re basically the same age. I’m flipping the channels last night and “Brian’s Song” is on; my husband looks at me like I’m nuts for wanting to watch it. I saw this movie in high school, and several times after. I have the very moving (yet depressing) theme song on my I-Pod. I haven’t seen it in a very long time though, and I’m watching the movie, crying of course…and after Brian dies, they say he was only 26 - I knew that, but I guess I forgot or just didn’t really focus on it since I watched it when I was young and 26 seemed kind of old to me then. How tragic to die so young. And as sad as I am about my dad, he’s lived a full life so I can’t complain, and I had a lot more time with him than Brian’s daughters did. So in a very weird way, the movie actually made me feel a little better. It’s weird how life works sometimes. Go figure.
I first watched the movie “Brian’s Song” at the age of 13. I remember all the emotion that was portrayed and realized the impact that this man had made on so many lives. Death is something we all must face,,Brian’s legacy will go on forever. I know that his daughters and family were so very proud of this remarkable person and continue to feel that way.
I first saw the Brian Picolo movie in 1971 at the age of 10. I was still learning english at the time [French citizen at the time]. The movie just tore at my heart for Brian and his loving family. and now 35+ years later I watch the remade version of the movie and saw thru adult eyes. My God what a brave man he was.The movie also showed on how important family and dear friends make in ones life.
I would like to say also that Gale Sayers is a remarkable man,what a strong shoulder he must of been for Brian and his family,friendships like that don’t come by very often so sad that it was so short. God Bless the Picolo family as well as the Sayer’s
I have seen Brian’s song, several times and love the friendship that Piccolo and Sayers had. That what a true friendship. Now days it is hard to find true friendship
I’ve never been much of a football fan. But I will say that Brain Piccolo is my favorite football player ever. He was such a fighter and an insperational person. He has a very special place in my heart. My last child I had …a son.. was named after Brian. Like Brian lost his life my son Brain lost his due to a car accident at the age of 15. My Brain was a fan of Brains and I’m sure that they have meet each other. I have worn out two copies of Brian’s Song and am on my third one. I’ll curl up in my bed with a box of tissues everytime I watch it. I’m also a fan of Gayle Sayers.. what a beautiful friendship those two men shared. I know Gayle must have a spot for Brian in his heart as well. So glad that I have found this website its in my favorites and can go back to it often now. I’ll remember these two men the rest of my life…. Thank you….
I have read and seen Brian’s song only a few times. I would love to learn more about Brian and Gale. Email me and maybe we could talk.
hello who ever you are.
haha.
but ya i love this book.
it is amazing..
ilyy,
love,
dodo:)
it helped my report,
the website did.
pce.love.happiness:]
I SAW BRIAN SONG A FEW TIME BUT THE FUNNY THUNG IS IT TOUCH MY HEART ALL THE TIMES I SAW IT
I saw Brian’s Song and was really moved by it. His life teaches us to appreciate everything we have at the moment especially our loved ones. It also teaches us the value of true friendship,which is to be there for each other in times of need and to always push each other to achieve their best in life.
hi. i’m not a sport enthusiast. never was and never will be. last night, i was flipping through channels when i saw a scene. the guy had his daughters all over him and he was asking everybody if they have seen them. i find it cute. i’ve always been fascinated with scenes of dads showing their love for their kids. every scene after that just made me put down the remote control and watch. the movie moved me to tears. my two sons saw me crying, they watched it with me. i wrote down brian piccolo’s name and made it a point to surf about him on the net when i wake. so, here i am. i don’t know the title of that movie last night, and i feel bad that i wasn’t able to watch it from the start. he was a great man. i hope i’ll be as optimistic as he is. he always finds something good to say. i liked it when he said to the doctor, “and next time, i’d appreciate it if you won’t make my wife cry.”
hey i liked this book to,sorta kinda it wasnt all that bad i guess
I just watched brians song again last night before i went to sleep, this movie touches my heart and it make’s me cry evrytime. To see two guys come together like they did and them giving him that chance someone who saw through him and knew he had something great to offer to play in the NFL I thank you “George Halas” that was the greatest gift any one could ever give him besides his wife, his three daughters and his friends and teamate’s “Brian Piccolo” will never be forgotten He will live on in our hearts forever. And to you Mr. Sayer’s they said he really never had a chance to shine but in a sad twisted way when your knee went out Brian did have a chance to shine and share that with the world, He would of been a great asset to the NFL.
I was in my early 20’s when ” Brian’s Song” was released as a TV movie. A friend of mine was a nurse at the hospital in nyc where Brian was treated. She wasn’t his nurse, but those who had any interections with him were inspired by him. Besides enjoying the movie immensely, I became a life long football fan. Needless to say, the movie certainly propelled the careers of the two main actors. I’m very glad that the form of cancer that Brian had is more treatable.I’m always touched by the movie, as swell as the books written about them
Today Dec. 14 I am again watching Brians Sing probably for the 50th time. Everyone could take lessons as Brian Piccolo is one of the best humanitarian and never cared about what anyone thought back in the 60’s. He and Gayle Sears are the best the Bears ever had.
I would just like to say I watched the movie Brians Song in school, I just got done watching it today.. It still caused the same reaction from me, tears n thinking what a beautiful friendship they both had.. God Bless you Gayle Sayers forever for being such a TRUE FRIEND n God love you Brian Piccolo FOREVER for your strenght, love and courage you showed us all… Kate
I told my wife before watching this movie, that I wouldnt cry, she told me she cried the first time she watched it. I told her “ah”(waving her off) trying to be macho… I havent teared as much since my father passed away. It was a very touching film and well documented, thanks.
hi my name is katie and brain seemed like a great guy and so did gale sayers.everyone reading this should read the story brains song and see the movie and the newer version of this movie.we watched it in reading class and it was so great.these guys put up a huge struggle to be known in history and i think that they should be recignized for many years,generations,and lifetimes to come.
wanna know what i think about brian piccolo
go to wetpaint.com and search brian piccolo and gail sayers and when the page comes up it will be the only one.
Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers in the same backfield. My younger brother and I used to argue over which one of us got to be Sayers and who was piccolo. To me, Brian Piccolo epitimizes what courage is all about.
It’s unbelivable how certain people and things, from your childhood always comeback at you.. Brian Piccolo, has always popped into my mind time after time. But today is the day before Super Bowl XLII and I was reminicsing about past football games and Brian Piccolo pop into my head.. I had to look him up on the web. your piece that you wrote is on the money.. I will share the movie Brian’s Song with my 2 boys tonight!! Thanks
Today, February 24,2008 our ladies Sunday School class discussed some sports figures of today. Some wonder why most are not comparable to some in earlier years. I reminded them of Brian Piccolo and Gayle Sayers and the beauty of a sports figure with a life short lived. I have seen the movie, Brian’s Song, several times and appreciate the things I have been able to read.
My name is Richard, from Sydney Australia.I have just finished watching the 2001 re-make Brian’s Song. Previous to watching this, i had not known of Brian Piccolo. I have never been emotional during a movie or even felt inspired by one, however, this feeling has certainly changed after watching this incredibly inspiring story. I truly believe i could write for hours about how i feel right now. I’d just like to finish on this note. The Piccolo family should feel so proud (and i’m sure they already are) to have 1 of the greatest and most courageous role models the world has ever seen, in their very own family. Thank you for sharing Brian’s story with us.
Belive it or not I am Brian Piccolo’s 10th cousin which un beliveable because I have just recently found this out seeing that I am only 13. I would imagine that “Pic” was a great guy who I would have been glad to meet. I appreciate the biography you wrote about him, thank you for that.
I remember the first time I watched Brian’s Song, almost 40 years ago in a sports lit class. I am not showing it to my students. I cried then and still now have to fight back the tears. Wonderful story to teach children life lessons.
When I speak to others about friendship and courage or think about it myself, I often use the examples of Brian Piccolo and Gayle Sayers. No matter how often I see the movie, “Brian’s Song”, I am deeply grateful to these great athletes for the love and courage they showed to and for each other. These men are true heroes and models to be emulated by all.
I turned 13 the month that Mr.Piccolo died. I was just heartbrokened. I loved Brian’s Song. The relationship between Brian and Gayle was untouchable. It was magic. I learned alot about love, friendship and courage. I still look for things pertaining to to Brian. Found this site. He was a hero in every sense of the word and definitely a model to follow. It would have been a pleasure to meet him and for all that have, you all are so very lucky.
I remember watching in my sophomore year of high school, a screening of the original movie. I have never in my life, before or since, gone to see or watched a movie where, I have seen young men and grown men alike cry right along with the ladies. Just as the friendship of Brian Piccolo and Gayle Sayers transcended race, so too did the movie transcend gender and age, and after all these years time as well.
Although still touched by the movie to this day, I don’t think I fully appreciated the story it told, until much later in life. I remember his wife Joy being interviewed on tv about the book after first seeing the movie. I can even remember that the first high school football game that I went to after moving to South Florida was at St. Thomas Aquinas at Brian Piccolo Memorial Field as I think it was called and thinking how special it was. I can also remember how excited I was to buy a copy of Gayle Sayers’ book.
But it wasn’t until I was grown and on my own many years later after seeing a re-run of the movie on a Thanksgiving Day in Orlando, that I realize what a powerful message the movie sends.
As many years have now passed, I found this web site tonight, and can’t help but wonder as we sometimes struggle to reach our growing daughters two of whom are in middle school, what a positive and powerful lesson that they and many kids their age could learn from watching the movie. I can honestly say that if you have not watched this movie, you will never be the same once you have.
Brian Piccolo, our season with you on this earth may have been short, but your season in our hearts will never end.
you are so cool you are the best linebacker ever!Your #1 fanBro i am 11 years old doing a report on you.By
Unpacking, stopped to channel surf; show the Bears and stopped to see; realized it was the movie for which I have never viewed from start to finish and today is still the case; but I left the movie playing; excellent, Today, I will own this movie to view from the start to the finish. I asked myself where is Mr. Gale Sayers and his family, as well as, Mr. Brian Piccolo’s family. I wondered if either of them got honorary spots in the Football Hall of Fame. The information was not listed at the end of the movie. I wonderd if any of the children were involved in sports or owners. It was a great movies, and a great expression of love and caring between good decent people. I was too young for this period of time but Walter Peyton was my hero.
Thanks for a moment to speak.
It’s Saturday morning, April 26, 2008. I just finished watching the original “Brian’s Song” and am still crying for not the first time. I first saw this movie when I was about 14-15 years old. My grandfather had recently died of brain cancer, my first personal experience with death of a close relative or friend. I recall that I was watching the TV movie while lying on the sofa in my parents’ den and was pure and simply crying my heart out…couldn’t stop. This is a very special movie about two great men whose love and friendship transcended competition, race and illness, and it will always have a place in my heart. I, too, wondered about Gale Sayers and Brian’s family and was inspired to search the web for information about them so came to this site. Thank you so much for your touching tribute. The courage and determination that Brian Piccolo demonstrated during his very short life is worthy of our admiration, and I hope his family and friends see this site and find comfort in knowing that even those who never knew him personally will ever remember his gift to the world. Gale Sayers was a phenomenol athlete, but I’m sure knowing Brian Piccolo made him an even greater man. May God bless the Sayers and Piccolo families!
I saw “Brians Song” when it first appeared, and It is the only movie that I had watched that made me cry. I am 51 years old now and I have seen many things, and lost many friends especially in the service but, this was the first time I had felt such an emotion for someone who showed what class and courage together can acheive. We meet many people in our lives, but very few, so very few strike us in such a way that leaves such an indelible mark, coming from a small all white town the fact that two people , one black and one white could impress us in such a way. I only hope that when my time comes, that I can leave this world with only fraction of the respect and love that Brian was able too, because isnt that all what we can only hope for? To leave the world knowing that you have touched someones heart, and left it with a glimmer of hope that changes can be made for the better.
Wow! What a marvelous well-written biography! I remember Brian Piccolo (I am now 53) and still admire him and his courage tremendously!!
I was moved by the original “Brian’s Song” at the age of 6. I didn’t really understand the full meaning of the unfolding drama, but did understand that a man died of this horrible illness. At the time, 26 seemed old to me. Years later, I read Jeanne Morris’ book and realized how young he was when he was dealing with this.
Brian Piccolo has remained an inspiration to me. It was nice to see the ESPN special a few years ago and see how beautiful his daughters are. I know he would be so proud of them. It’s wonderful to see the way his story has impacted so many and serves as a reminder to us all to live our lives well and with gratefulness. His life was short, but look at his enduring legacy.
i cry everytime i even think of the movie and brian piccolo’s story. to be so strong and have so many fiends is amazing
I love the movie “Brian’s Song”. I just saw the remake of it last night–did not realize they had done it-I was expecting to see the original movie. I recorded the movie years ago and have been watching it every so often. The story is so moving and so real. And yes, I cry every time. Both players had so much courage. I need to get the books and read them–also want to get dvd’s. I will continue to watch it—one of my all time favorite movies.
Anybody want to see a picture of him the night b4 he went to see a “specialist” regarding his cough?
It was taken at a sporting goods convention here in Chicago.
(It’s autographed and with me)
I was 13 when Sayers was injured and remember vividly the stories of his rehab by “Pic”. I have seen the original movie many times and have the soundtrack in both cd and tape. The article by Mr. Taylor is truly wonderful. I would like to know the update of his wifes journey over the last 40 years.
God Bless Brian piccolo !!!!!
id want to know how his wife is doing and how shes living now
No matter how many times I see Brian’s Song, I end up crying like it was the first time I seen it.
The true friendship between these two guys has to be admired by all. It took Brians humor and Gayles strength for them both to endure the final days.
God bless the Piccolo and Sayers families. Brian will forever live in their hearts as he will live in the fans and those who watch Brian’s Song.
Hey Shaun, I’d like to see the photo and hear your story — I have a photo of Brian framed and it’s a prized possession.. e-mail mark@spinrock.com
I have just finished watching Brian’s song with my daughter and all we could do was cry, this was a true depiction of love, family and friends enduring a time of tragedy with strength and honor. Yes, I cried for the life lost and the families affected. I can only say that seeing the life of a great man who endured has encouraged myself and my children to be better equipped for the circumstances of life. I was never a football fan, I just thank god for the friendship made and reciprocated in his time of need, We will never forget Brian, and this story will continue to touch lives until the end of time. Brian Piccolo and Gayle Sayers will be forever be etched in our hearts!!!!
One of my favorite movies of all times is Brian’s Song…Brian Piccolo must have been a remarkable man. I cry every time I see his story. When I was five I named my dog (a german shepherd) after him. Everyone made fun of her name until i told them why she was named Piccolo.
i am related to brian piccolo and look up to him everyday becuase i know that his strength is in me thinking about his story insipers me to acheeve exalance everyday
It was just yesterday (06/09/2008) during the 19th year of my life that I watched the movie named “Brian’s song” which is dedicated to this amazing person. The one and only thing that I’m sure about is that I won’t forget him. This is the least that we can do for him.. Because we shouldn’t consider mr Pic as dead.. He is alive in our soul giving us the mental and spiritual strength that we may lack..Let’s fight for life to keep him alive through us.
Thank you Brian!
We Were required to read Brian’s Song in HIgh School about 30 years ago and the only thing I remember was the ultimate compliment of Brian. “Its not how he died they remeber. It’s how he lived. How he did live” Wonderful saying for a wonderful man.
I just had to read Brain’s song over the last few days, and let me just say that before then i never knew who gale sayers and brain piccolo was. I was touched by both the movie and the play.
As a survivor of embryonal cell cacinoma, like Brian Piccolo, I can
relate to some of what he was experiencing in battling this horrible disease. God bless Brian for maintaining his dignity, and for his willingness to give back to others, even as he faced his own monumental struggle.
We moved to Chicago from St Louis in the mid 60’s just in time to see Piccolo play for the Bears. I grew up loving the Bears because of Brian’s story. This story moves me to this day. I’m so very happy that they are able to save lives for people who get this type of cancer. So many things Brian Piccolo taught us but his humor had to be contagious.
dude u r a legend i love your Biography it talks about football in such a way that no one knows ive been playing football for six years and i love your book sincerally Chaz Mosley
Brian Piccolo’s life story was one of the most moving experiences of my life. I have been an NY Giants tickek holder since 1960 and saw both Sayers and Piccolo play in Yankee Stadium. I watch the movie whenever I can and am always moved to tears by the courage displayed by Mr Piccolo and the interaction between he and Gayle Sayers. His life has been an inspiration to me.
Thanks for the wonderful biography.
I coached at conroe high school in Conroe ,texas at one time i showed this movie to my freshman football team this is without a doubt a movie about true character something this world is severly lacking today ! tonight i will be going to see “the Express” the Ernie Davis story as i was looking up that movie i was brought to this link and in reading i was reminded and brought to tears here at work on a saturday as i am trying to sell cars ! Long live the memories of those who bring us to to a better understaning of life and love ,like “Pic”
Keep up the good work.
Several years ago we saw the original “Brian’s Song” (which, by the way, will always be our favorite version) and cried throughout the story. Recently we pulled the video out of our collection and watched it again, with much the same reaction. Just recently I purchased a box of books at an auction and in it was “I am Third” by Gale Sayers, which I’ve just finished reading. What a marvelous example Brian Piccolo and Gale set for establishing meaningful friendships! Most outstanding are the words of Gale Sayers as he accepted the George Halas Award - would that we could all be that unselfish and caring!
I was born in 1970 and was named after Brian Piccolo. I never really cared about that fact until I was in College and was reading Brian’s biography by Jeannie Morris and found out that my parish priest growing up had conducted Brian and Joy’s wedding and found a few other things that we had in common and since then have always considered him to be my hero. I didn’t marry and have children until I was older than 26 and I often stop and consider how short a time that he had here on earth and it is terribly sad to think of his children and the things that they were never able to share with their dad. However, as a father, I am most moved to tears when I consider the fact that he was dying and at some point Brian must have realized all the things that he was going to miss.
AMAZING STORY OF TRUE FRIENDSHIP…
WAS IT DEVICE GUIDENCE THAT CEMENTED THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO SHOW THE WORLD THAT EVERYBODY CAN LIVE IN HARMONY…??????
At Wake Forest where Brian played his college ball setting then an NCAA single season rushing record of over 1,200+ yards, I remember well having to tackle him during practice, being on the scout team most of the time. Hitting him was one thing bringing him down another. While a teammate, I knew little about his Ft. Lauderdale history in high school (learned much about him after his death and the movie made - Brian’s Song). Today, Brian’s name came to mind when I was looking for a book for our 12 year old grandson to read. In doing a google I found this page and took a little bit of time to express my genuine respect for him and his attitude at Wake Forest. He was liked by everybody and deservedly so because he seemed not to be a premodona but a genuine caring person who was set on enjoying life in a good clean fashioned arena. He would have enjoyed being a father to his children and they must be proud.
I am and will always be a Chicago Bears fan. I wish the Brian
Piccolo story did not have to happen. He was a great player. Why do the great ones go. Walter Payton also left us at an early age. I will share Brian’s song with everyone so they can see that a man is only bound by his own will. Brian proved that we can obtain our goals. Even if it’s just for a short time.
i just watched the movie today, and i cried my eyes out. i think hes the most incredable football player in the world…
Tonight, Christmas Eve, 2008 my husband opened an early Christmas gift…I bought him the movie Brian Song. As a child it was my favorite movie and still is. We had both seen it many many times. But tonight we wanted to share it w/ our daughter 15 and twins sons 11. We all cried. What an amazing man and a true friendship. I wonder where his wife and daughters are today~
Hoje, dia 02 de janeiro de 2009 vi aqui no brasil o filme de brian piccolo e percebi que a vida é para ser aproveitada da melhor maneira possivel, pois ele foi uma pessoa que amava a vida e é um exemplo para mim. Que deus ilumine seu espirito, san……..
I grew up in Wisconsin, and still live there, so am a Packers fan. That being said, I have also respected Brian Piccolo for over 35 years now, for the couragous person that he was. I have watched the movie “Brian’s Song” over and over–had to replace the tape version with a DVD version of it, and have also read Gale Sayer’s book “I Am Third” (have a copy of it). Your article was very moving and is a wonderful tribute to a rare and wonerful man. Thank you so much for writing it (by the way, I had just gotten done watching “Brian’s Song” and was looking up some information on the web, when I ran across your article.
Thank you!!
hi my name is xavier i just love football. and brian piccalo and gale sayers are like my idels and im actaly doing a report on this two people. and put a little more inf about brain piccalo on this wedsite
THANK YOU
WOW! My children are doing a reort on Brian Piccolo and they havent seen the movie yet. the are doing it as a school project the whole 7th grade and they are watching it in school on Thursday & Friday right now they do not even have any idea how completely powerful and life changing this story is. Brian was an increddible person as is his dear friend Gale Sayers. I havent seen the movie in years but helping my children do research has brought tears to my eyes several times I had to call my brother who Loved Brian Piccolo!! I hope that you continue to keep this site up there are some really great comments on here. Brians family would probably enjoy reading them!! there Father was a great man what a loss !!! HE MADE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE!
Hi im Brian Piccolo’s niece from New Winsor, NY i love him and miss him very much although i never got to meet him but my fathers cousin.
Hello Roy,
Thank you for this heartfelt and genuine tribute. It truly embodies what all Bear fans feel young and old about Brian Piccolo.
I watched “Brian’s Song” again last night for the 1,000th time and it still makes me so proud to be a Bear fan. Even though he wasnt from Chicago he certainly resembled what Chicagons are all about; Loyalty, Caring for others, and Humility.
Best,
Brian F. Sullivan
When I was a kid in the late 60s early 70s, the Bears spring training camp was in my hometown of Rensselaer, IN at St. Josephs College. They practiced on a field that was 1/4 mile from my house. I used to ride my bike up to watch them practice all the time. I remember Butkus, Sayers, Piccolo, and other. I had their cards and autographs but their all gone now. Wish I still had them. I watched Brian’s Song again tonight for the first time in a long time. I remember when it first came out and the opening scene was the college campus with Sayers taxi dropping him off for Spring training. Great memories! I guess I didn’t realize until tonight that Pic was only 26 at the time of his death. So young.
What a moving writing! I loved Brian’s Song the first time I saw it in 1971 and love it all over again as I watch it tonight! What a wonderful man graced humanity!
tonite i watched brian’s song for the 100 time.Pic fought his whole career,what a man,a man who’s actions spoke more than anything.It was unseen in the 60’s two men one white the other black to be given the chance to share a room together,they showed us that it could be done it was GREAT.And the special friendship each had for the other.We as people will never see this kind of bonding again in pro sports.I still get all choked up when watching this movie.Way to go pic and gayle.we miss you pic rip from new jersey.And yes thanks for the memories
I was watching Brian’s Song on TV tonight for about the 20th time. Everytime I see this movie I can’t help but shed a few tears.
I didn’t care for the re-make but the original w/James Cann and Billy Dee Williams is amazing. I enjoyed your “Tribute also.” P.S. I live in Florida and we have a Brain Piccolo Field in Cooper City.
Great tribute.I feel the same.
I too have watched the move Brian’s Song A LOT!!! Too many to count,one of my favorite movies!!! The reason for writing this and finding this site is—Sunday, watching the Vikings (go Vikes) and the SF 49’s. There was a reference to a player running, and the commentator said something to the effect of: “haven’t seen that since Gayle Sayers”. So……….had to look up Gayle Sayers to see what he’s doing now, this lead me to this site. Their relationship said a lot, not only a great friendship but for that time, the 60’s. We have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. We have made great strides, but by the e-mails we get from our idiot far right friends, you would think it is STILL the 60’s.
I recently saw the new movie on Brian having seen the original so many years ago and the raw courage that he had was very evident. I have always admired the man for his courage and determination and above all the love that he had for his family and team mates especially Gayle Sayers. What a friendship they must have had,a friendship so pure that it should always be sought after. RIP Brian Piccolo.
Ronnie Warren
Barbados.
I often think about the movie, “Brian’s Song”..I remember how I cried thinking how unfair life had been to Brian. But what a strong man he was. What great faith and spirit he possessed in the face of death. I only hope to have this kind of strengh if ever i’m faced with such a tragic dilemma in my lifetime. God bless you for writing this article. It had been a long time.
A Bears fan I was a long time ago and only a second grader when Brian Piccolo ended his battle with lung cancer. Brian Piccolo exemplified the true meaning of what a teammate really should be. No weights, steroids, multi-million dollar contracts or convicted felons back when he played. If the movie Brian’s Song doesn’t make one cry, one might check to see if they have a soul. If the filmmakers of America want to fill the cinemas, get a new movie of Brian’s Song in the theaters with Billy Dee Williams and James Caan in coaching roles while updating this great American drama. Godspeed to you Brian Piccolo. May you be united with your loving family when all is said and done.
is brian piccolo in the hall of fame
Not in the Hall but I think they have or had a tribute to him there.
Brian and his family lived near me in the Beverly area of Chicago when I was in 2nd and third grade. He and another Bear came to my parish’s father and son Holy Name breakfast in 1968 and he picked me up and spun me around. What a great person. I remember him laughing with all of the boys there that day.
He is one of my heroes. I tell my boys about him all the time and tell that they should play football and the game of life like Brian did.
we have been reading brian’s song at school the past week. i love everything about it. when i was watdhing brian’s song i told my grandma i wasn’t going to cry even after she told me it was one of the sadest movies she ever watched. after the movie was over she came into the living room to see if i was crying. of course i was it just reminded me of losing my sister. the sad part is no one told me how she died.after she died it felt like no one cared about me anymore. so if someone in your family dies don’t be thinking that no one cares about you because they still do and always will even after your dead. the only reason i thought no one loved me is because i didn’t get any attention.now i know that i was wrong. right know i am 12 and this happened about six in a half years ago.
This was an awesome article which touched me quite profoundly and emotionally.Brian was an exceptional human being that Gayle certainly recognized and that you pointed out so well.
All NFL palyers should know this story, maybe we wouln’t have so many hot dogs today, or it seems like it.
Brian is an example that all people from all walks of life should aspire. He worked so hard to achieve and in the face of overwhelming poor odds kept his composure, sense of humor and dignity about him.
Thanks for your article…well done!!
Dear Roy, I really enjoyed your article on Brian Piccolo. I also loved and admired Brian. In 1964 as I was a sophmore at Wake Forest and playing Offensive Center for the football team Coach Bill Tate, who was a first year coach. He gave several sophmores an opportunity to start on that team. I was one of those along with Lynn Nesbitt. The two of us along with Bull Salter, Brian’s high school friend, Bill Hopkins, and Jim Beaudoin. Lead the way for Brian to lead the nation in rushing and scoreing in 1964. If you would like more information please sen me your emial address. I have a great deal of information from our collegfe days.
Mr. Taylor, I read and printed a copy of your article about Brian Piccolo to share with my students at Pierce MS, in Tampa, FL. First, students completed an activity on the + and - of Friendship. We viewed the educational film, “Brian’s Song”, for a Listening/Note-Taking lesson in LA classes. Students created a “Picture Story” (story w/o words) on posters. Next, we read your article, along with a similar one on Gale Sayers.
I enjoyed this article and appreciate your personal comments. Educators have a hard time, trying to convince teens today that a “hero” is so much more than someone who excels in sports. They seldom see the real person behind the cheers, and they cannot see honesty, integrity and personal achievement…through the noises made by media. Thank you for seeing the real man; I, too, hightly admire Pic’s personality, courage, honesty, dedication, and the level of friendship he achieved. Doris R Ripoll, Pierce MS, 5511, North Hesperides Ave., Tampa, FL 33614.
Exactly, what i was looking for. Thank you.
I already bookmark this post, I might get back and will read your new post… bye for now