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Barstool Sports Mourns Sudden Passing of Golf Personality Cody “Beef” Franke at 31
The world of digital sports media is in shock and mourning following the sudden death of Cody “Beef” Franke, a beloved Barstool Sports personality known for his gentle demeanor and relatable golf tips. Franke, who brought a refreshing approach to helping the “common golfer,” passed away over the weekend at the age of 31 due to what the company described as a “sudden medical issue.”
Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, shared his grief on social media platform X, stating, “Barstool lost a member of our family this weekend. 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 and to live each day to its fullest.” Details regarding the cause of death or funeral arrangements were not provided by Portnoy.
A native of Chicago, Franke spent nearly a decade as a golf professional, honing his craft on courses in California and Wisconsin. His journey to internet stardom began unexpectedly last year when Portnoy, impressed by Franke’s instructional golf videos on social media, extended an offer to join Barstool’s popular “Fore Play” golf podcasts. Franke, initially skeptical, recounted to the PGA that he “originally thought it was a fake email.”
After a period of consideration, Franke made the significant decision in December to fully commit to his role at Barstool, stepping away from his career as a golf pro. He explained to the PGA, “Being a PGA Member, you can’t really do something like this part time and work at a golf course.
There’s just too much time being consumed. So, I made the decision to go full time.”
This leap of faith quickly paid off. Franke’s Instagram following exploded from 1,200 to over 30,000, and he soon found himself recognized in airports and even posing for selfies with renowned professional golfers. His mission, he often stated, was to make golf more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.
Franke was renowned for his unwavering politeness, a trait that became a signature gesture as he consistently doffed his cap at fan meet-and-greets and public appearances.
Barstool Sports released a heartfelt statement expressing their profound sorrow: “Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Cody’s entire family and loved ones. We’ll be removing our hats for Cody today and everyday.
Rest in peace to the classiest man we knew.” The statement further added, “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.
Cody truly loved the game of golf. He selflessly spent much of his life helping others improve and enjoy the game.”
Cody “Beef” Franke leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication to the game of golf, and a genuine desire to connect with and assist others. His presence will be deeply missed by his colleagues, fans, and the wider golf community.