Barstool Sports’ Cody Beef Franke, former PGA pro and Fore Play podcast personality, dies at 31 from a sudden medical issue. Founder Dave Portnoy and fans mourn his loss. the beloved Fore Play podcast star remembered for his kindness, humor, and love for the game of golf.
By Narrator News | October 28, 2025
Barstool Sports is mourning the loss of one of its most genuine and beloved personalities. Cody “Beef” Franke, the 31-year-old golf content creator known for his humor, charm, and passion for making golf more enjoyable for everyday players, has died following what the company described as a “sudden medical issue.”
The news was confirmed by Barstool founder Dave Portnoy, who shared the heartbreaking update on social media late Sunday night.
“Barstool lost a member of our family this weekend,” Portnoy posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Just tragic news. You will never find a nicer, more genuine person than Beef. It’s hard to even process it right now. Just another cruel reminder that tomorrow is never promised — live each day to its fullest.”
No further details on the cause of death or funeral arrangements were immediately provided.
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From PGA Pro to Internet Star
A Chicago native, Franke built a successful early career as a PGA professional, working for nearly a decade at golf courses across California and Wisconsin. Known for his calm demeanor and skillful instruction, he helped hundreds of players refine their game long before his videos began gaining traction online.
Franke’s life changed dramatically in 2024 when Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy discovered his viral golf clips on social media. Impressed by his authenticity and teaching style, Portnoy reached out with a job offer that would catapult “Beef” into national recognition.
“I originally thought it was a fake email,” Franke told the professional Golfers’ Association of America earlier this year.
“Being a PGA Member, you can’t really do something like this part time and work at a golf course. So, I made the decision to go full time.”
That decision proved transformative. Within months of joining Barstool’s popular “Fore Play” golf podcast, Franke’s following exploded — from just over 1,000 Instagram followers to more than 30,000. Fans gravitated toward his easygoing personality, warm laughter, and sincere love for the sport.
He Made Golf Fun for Everyone’
Franke often described his mission as helping the “common golfer” find joy in the game, regardless of skill level. His video tips and podcast appearances were filled with laughter, self-deprecating humor, and advice that resonated with everyday players rather than professionals.
His colleagues at Barstool said Franke quickly became known as “the classiest man in golf media,” famous for removing his cap at fan events, greeting everyone with a smile, and making time for selfies and small talk — no matter how busy he was.
In an official statement, Barstool Sports paid tribute to Franke’s life and legacy.
“We are beyond devastated to announce that our good friend and cherished Barstool Sports colleague, Cody ‘Beef’ Franke, passed away from a sudden medical issue over the weekend,” the company said.
“Cody truly loved the game of golf. He selflessly spent much of his life helping others improve and enjoy the game. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Cody’s entire family and loved ones. We’ll be removing our hats for Cody today and every day. Rest in peace to the classiest man we knew.”
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Tributes Pour In Across the Golf Community
Fans, colleagues, and professional golfers flooded social media with tributes to the late content creator. Many recalled his signature humor and down-to-earth approach that helped make golf accessible to younger audiences and weekend players alike.
Riggs, host of the “Fore Play” podcast, posted a heartfelt message saying,
“Beef wasn’t just a coworker — he was family. His energy and love for the game made every episode better, every trip funnier, and every moment lighter. Golf won’t be the same without him.”
Others in the sports media world echoed similar sentiments, calling Franke’s death a devastating loss not only for Barstool Sports but for the broader golf community that admired his authenticity and positivity.
A Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Cody Franke’s impact on sports media extended beyond Barstool. His relatable voice and dedication to making golf fun and approachable for all players earned him a devoted fan base — many of whom credit him with rekindling their love for the game.
He was also an example of how modern sports media can elevate fresh voices from social media into mainstream platforms, bridging the gap between professional athletes and everyday fans.
Despite his rising fame, those who knew Franke best say he never changed.
“He stayed humble, polite, and grateful,” said a close friend from his PGA days. “He loved golf, he loved people, and he made everyone around him feel special. That’s a rare gift.”
As tributes continue to pour in, fans are remembering Cody “Beef” Franke not just as a content creator or golf pro, but as a kind-hearted human being whose joy and laughter made the world of sports a little brighter.