Golf world pays tribute to Cody 'Beef' Franke after his sudden passing

The golf world is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Cody 'Beef' Franke, a beloved member of Barstool Sports’ Fore Play golf team, who has sadly passed away aged 31 following a sudden medical issue.

Franke joined Barstool in January and quickly became one of the sport’s most recognised and loved online personalities. 

Known for his humour, warmth, and infectious enthusiasm, he brought energy and authenticity to every piece of content he touched.

The Fore Play team confirmed the devastating news in a statement: "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."

According to reports, Franke was in the Dominican Republic attending a wedding at the time of his passing.

Before joining Barstool, Cody worked as the Head Golf Professional at Thornberry Creek Country Club in Oneida, Wisconsin. 

A proud PGA professional, he dedicated his life to helping others improve their game through coaching, lessons, and content creation.

His 'Tip Tuesday' videos became a hit on social media, mixing light-hearted fun with genuinely useful golf instruction. 

It was this blend of expertise and personality that caught the eye of Barstool founder Dave Portnoy, who brought him into the Fore Play team alongside Sam Bozoian (Riggs), Frank Borrelli, and Trent Ryan.

Cody described his love for golf beautifully in a past interview with PGA.com: "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. I’m home. That’s what this has always been for me."

At Barstool, Cody continued to share his coaching knowledge and travel the world with his teammates, visiting some of the most iconic courses and meeting countless fans along the way.

Barstool founder Dave Portnoy paid an emotional tribute to Cody following the news of his passing: "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."

The Fore Play team echoed those feelings in their own heartfelt message: "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."

"He selflessly spent much of his life helping others improve and enjoy the game." — Fore Play team

Franke went viral earlier this year when Fore Play posted a clip of him politely refusing to shake someone’s hand until he had removed his hat — a small but telling gesture that reflected his respect for tradition and his naturally humble character.

The PGA of America has also released a touching statement celebrating Franke’s life and impact, which you can read below: "We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Cody ‘Beef’ Franke, PGA.

"Beef was a PGA of America Golf Professional who graduated from the PGA Golf Management program at Ferris State in Michigan, spreading his love for golf across the country. He started in the @scpga at Desert Willow, then made his way back to the Midwest & @ThornberryCreek.

"This is where the golf world became acquainted with his passion through his viral Tip Tuesday series. Beef then became the Head Professional for @ForePlayPod, where he brought his coaching expertise & admiration for the game to a whole new audience of golfers & non-golfers alike.

"Beef’s kind, genuine and warm personality was what made him so great to be around. We were lucky to have worked with him on countless projects this year and will miss him terribly.

"Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends.”

Cody's impact on the golf community extended far beyond social media.

His friends, students, and colleagues will remember him not only for his talent, but for his kindness, humility, and the laughter he brought to every round.

PGA pro Ryan Adams posted on social media: "I spent a half-day with Beef in late July filming coaching tips. He treated everyone the same: with kindness. He looked forward to ‘coming back to Frisco’ for more coaching content & it's sad we won't have that. But this video tells you all you need to know."

The entire GolfMagic team joins the wider golf community in sending our deepest condolences to Cody’s family, friends, and everyone at Barstool Sports. RIP Beef.