Barstool Sports is mourning the loss of one of its rising on-air personalities. Cody “Beef” Franke, a member of the company’s popular golf podcast Fore Play, died suddenly following a medical issue over the weekend.
Franke, who joined Fore Play in December 2024, quickly became a favorite among listeners for his easygoing humor and chemistry with the show’s hosts. The podcast — known for its mix of golf commentary, travel adventures, and irreverent banter — confirmed the heartbreaking news across its social media platforms.
“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 podcast wrote.
The post was met with an immediate outpouring of condolences from fans, golfers, and fellow media personalities. Many described Franke as a positive force behind the scenes and an emerging voice within Barstool’s growing sports content universe.
“Our colleague Beef passed away over the weekend,” said Dan “Big Cat” Katz on this afternoon’s airing of The Yak. “He was in the Dominican for a wedding I believe, and had a medical issue and passed away. Really sad, tragic.”
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy shared his memories of Franke in a post on social media.
“Barstool lost a member of our family this weekend. Just tragic news. You will never find a nicer more genuine person than Beef,” wrote Portnoy. “It’s hard to even process it right now. Just another cruel reminder that tomorrow is never promised and to live each day to its fullest.”
The digital content company was set to unveil their recorded Barstool Invitational golf tournament tonight, but have decided to delay the debut in respect to Franke’s passing.
Beef joined Barstool this year following a successful career as a PGA pro. He entertained the masses with his teaching videos and other content, such as one-club challenges.
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