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Brian Piccolo - Trivia, Family, Bio

Author

Ella Bryant

Updated on February 10, 2026

Former NFL running back who died at the age of 26 with embryonal cell carcinoma; became the subject of the 1971 TV movie Brian's Song.

Before Fame

He was named ACC Player of the Year in 1964, after an impressive season at Wake Forest University.

Trivia

His #41 jersey was retired by the Chicago Bears after his death.

Family Life

He was married to Joy Murrath from 1964 to 1970; the couple had three children, Kristi, Lori, and Traci.

Associated With

He was portrayed by Sean Maher in the Hollywood remake of Brian's Song in 2001.