October 26, 2025 – The sports and golfing world is mourning the untimely death of Cody “Beef” Franke, a beloved figure in golf media and a cherished personality at Barstool Sports. Franke, who passed away at just 31 years old while attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic, leaves behind a legacy of passion, humor, and authenticity that endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.
What Happened
Cody “Beef” Franke passed away over the weekend of October 25–26, 2025, after what was described as a “sudden medical issue”. While the exact cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, Barstool Sports and Franke’s family have asked for privacy as they cope with this devastating loss.
Franke was in the Dominican Republic attending a wedding when the tragedy occurred, leaving the golf community in shock. His passing was confirmed by Barstool Sports, which released a statement expressing their deep sorrow over the loss of their colleague and friend.
Who Was Cody “Beef” Franke?
Before joining Barstool Sports, Cody Franke had already established himself as a respected figure in the world of golf. A former PGA professional, he served as the head golf pro at Thornberry Creek in Wisconsin, where he gained admiration for his teaching skills and infectious enthusiasm for the sport. His ability to make complex concepts accessible to all skill levels made him a beloved instructor, earning a loyal following among golfers in both Wisconsin and Palm Desert, California, where he had spent several years providing instruction.
In 2025, Franke joined Barstool’s Fore Play podcast, a platform that combines humor, insider analysis, and a deep passion for golf. Nicknamed “Beef” for his larger-than-life personality and warm sense of humor, Franke became a fan favorite almost instantly. His relatable storytelling and approachable demeanor made him a standout voice among golf media personalities.
Legacy in Golf and Media
Cody Franke’s impact extended far beyond his role at Barstool Sports. He had a deep love for the game of golf, and this passion was evident in every aspect of his work. Through instructional videos, social media, and his time on the Fore Play podcast, Franke helped demystify the game for fans and aspiring golfers. His approachable teaching style and infectious enthusiasm made the sport more accessible to people of all backgrounds and skill levels.
Fellow golfers, both professionals and amateurs, took to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to Franke’s memory. He was remembered not only for his golf knowledge but also for his kindness, humility, and his genuine love for the game. Franke was a mentor to many, and his loss is felt deeply within the community.
Tributes and Reactions
As news of Franke’s passing spread, tributes flooded in from across the golfing world. Fellow Barstool Sports hosts and PGA Tour figures expressed their sorrow, with many highlighting Franke’s warmth and generosity. Barstool founder Dave Portnoy shared an emotional tribute on social media, writing, “You will never find a nicer, more genuine person than Beef.”
His Fore Play podcast co-hosts described him as a joy to work with—someone who made everyone around him feel valued and inspired. Their heartfelt posts recalled his sense of humor, his drive to help others, and the way he made every conversation enjoyable.
What Happens Next
As the golfing world and his family mourn, they continue to celebrate the life of Cody “Beef” Franke, whose legacy will live on through his contributions to the sport and his kindness to all those around him. While the exact cause of his sudden death remains a mystery, those who knew him remain focused on his legacy—not just as an instructor and media personality, but as a kind-hearted, humble person who genuinely cared about his community.
Fans and colleagues alike are planning memorials and tributes to honor his life, remembering his significant contributions to golf and the joy he brought to countless people.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
