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Screenwriter and Toledo native William Blinn— author of iconic films such as Brian’s Song and Purple Rain— passed away in October at the age of 83. Born in the Glass City, Blinn moved to California for college and soon found work as a screenwriter, penning scripts for television. Blinn won Emmys for his scripts for Brian’s Song, based on the true story of football players Brian Piccolo (see photo) and Gale Sayers, as well as Roots. Blinn also co-wrote the screenplay for the semi-autobiographical film Purple Rain, starring Prince.
