Cody Franke : Barstool Sports and Golf Community Mourn Sudden Loss of Beloved Personality
The golf world is reeling from the sudden death of Cody “Beef” Franke, a 31-year-old Barstool Sports personality and former PGA professional who passed away over the weekend of October 26-27, 2024, while attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic.
The media company announced his passing on Monday, October 27, 2024, describing it as the result of a “sudden medical issue.” The specific nature of the medical emergency has not been publicly disclosed, leaving colleagues and fans worldwide in shock and mourning.
Franke, a cherished member of Barstool’s Fore Play podcast team, was remembered by founder Dave Portnoy as “the nicest, most genuine person” in an emotional tribute that sparked an outpouring of grief across social media platforms.
What Happened to Cody Franke?
Cody “Beef” Franke was in the Dominican Republic celebrating a friend’s wedding when he suffered a sudden medical emergency. The Fore Play podcast team confirmed the devastating news in a social media statement, expressing they were “beyond devastated” by the loss of their colleague and friend.
Barstool’s Dan “Big Cat” Katz shared the tragic update with listeners during an emotional segment on The Yak podcast. “Really, really, really sad. Really tragic,” Katz stated, struggling to find words. “It’s devastating. I don’t know what else to say.”
Despite the confirmation of his passing, the exact cause of Cody Franke’s death remains private. The family has not released detailed medical information, and no official reports have been made public at this time. Colleagues and news outlets have consistently referred to it only as a “sudden medical issue.”
Cody Franke’s Journey from PGA Pro to Barstool Personality
Long before his time at Barstool Sports, Cody Franke had established himself as a respected golf professional. With eight years as a PGA of America member, his career was marked by dedication to growing the sport he loved.
PGA Roots and Teaching Excellence
Franke’s professional journey included serving as the head golf professional at Thornberry Creek Country Club in Oneida, Wisconsin. During his nearly decade-long tenure there, he built a reputation as what he called the “common instructor for the common golfer,” focusing on making golf accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
His teaching excellence was formally recognized with two PGA Section awards, honoring his outstanding contributions to golf instruction. Throughout his teaching career, Franke helped over 500 students improve their game and develop a deeper appreciation for golf.
Table: Cody “Beef” Franke – Career Highlights
Transition to Digital Content Creation
Cody Franke joined Barstool Sports in early 2024, becoming an integral part of the company’s Fore Play golf brand. His transition from traditional golf professional to digital content creator allowed him to reach a broader audience while maintaining his core teaching values.
At Barstool, Franke continued creating his popular swing tip videos while also traveling to play some of the world’s top courses with Fore Play teammates Sam “Riggs” Bozoian, Frank Borrelli, and Trent Ryan. His approachable teaching style and passion for the game translated seamlessly to digital content, quickly making him a fan favorite.
In a previous interview with PGA.com, Franke explained his connection to the sport: “Golf has always been home for me… it’s something I can go do. If you go to the golf course, it doesn’t really feel like work-work – I’m just at a place I’m really happy to be around.”
A Gentleman Remembered: Tributes Pour In
The news of Cody Franke’s passing triggered an immediate outpouring of grief and remembrance from across the sports and entertainment worlds, with particular emphasis on his exceptional character and kindness.
Barstool Sports Family Mourns
Dave Portnoy, Barstool Sports founder, posted a heartfelt tribute on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after the announcement. “You will never find a nicer more genuine person than Beef,” Portnoy wrote. “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. #Ripbeef”
The Fore Play podcast team issued an official statement praising Franke’s character and impact: “Cody truly loved the game of golf. He selflessly spent much of his life helping others improve and enjoy the game. Watching golf bring people happiness brought him happiness, and that infectious personality was felt by everyone who met him. He was universally known as the nicest guy in the world.”
Golf Community and Viral Legacy
Beyond Barstool, the broader golf community expressed profound sadness at the loss. Golf influencer Paige Spiranac called the news “heartbreaking,” adding that “he was such a kind and good person.”
The PGA Tour’s official Instagram account also offered condolences, remembering Franke as “an incredible member of the golf community.”
One of Franke’s most memorable moments came earlier in 2024 when a Fore Play video showed him consistently removing his hat before shaking hands – a gesture of respect that went viral and came to symbolize his character. After his passing, teammate Riggs reposted the video, captioning it: “Still one of my favorite videos of all time. Beef was all class.”
PFT, co-host of Barstool’s “Pardon My Take” podcast, echoed the sentiment: “Beef was honestly the sweetest dude ever. Loved being around him. Don’t know what else even to say. He will be missed by so many, and it makes me sad that more people won’t get a chance to know him and love him. RIP buddy.”
Family Requests Privacy, Plans Celebration of Life
In the wake of their sudden loss, Cody Franke’s family has requested privacy as they grieve. Through Barstool representatives, they shared their appreciation for the support while asking for understanding during this difficult time.
While the family has not issued a detailed public statement, a message released through Barstool representatives conveyed their heartbreak and gratitude: “Cody lived life with humor, passion, and generosity. He made every room brighter. We ask that his fans honor his memory by living as he did, with kindness and laughter.”
The family is reportedly planning a private service, with considerations for a public celebration of life at a later date where fans and friends can properly honor his legacy. They have encouraged those wishing to pay tribute to share their memories and stories of Franke online, which has resulted in a flood of heartfelt testimonials from around the world.
The Lasting Legacy of Cody “Beef” Franke
Cody Franke’s impact extended far beyond his golf instruction or social media content. He represented a bridge between traditional golf culture and the modern digital landscape, making the sport more accessible and less intimidating for newcomers.
His teaching philosophy centered on simplicity and encouragement. In one of his final Instagram “Tip Tuesday” videos, he advised followers: “Not every pin location is a green light! Know when to attack and when to put on the brakes.” This practical, thoughtful approach characterized his method – meeting golfers where they were rather than where others thought they should be.
The sudden nature of his passing at just 31 serves as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility, a point several colleagues noted in their tributes. Yet his legacy lives on through the countless golfers he inspired, the students he taught, and the simple yet powerful example of respect and kindness he embodied both on and off the course.
As the golf community continues to process this significant loss, Cody Franke will be remembered not just for his golf expertise, but for the character, humility, and genuine care for others that made him so much more than just a sports personality – he was, as so many described, “the nicest guy in the world.”