Cody “Beef” Franke, a beloved figure in the golf and digital media worlds, passed away at the age of 31. His death has sent shockwaves through the golf community and his fans across the globe. As the first head pro for the popular Barstool Sports podcast Fore Play, Franke was known for his genuine personality, infectious humor, and dedication to making golf accessible and enjoyable for all.
The news of his passing came as a surprise to many, with Barstool Sports announcing that he died from a sudden medical issue while attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic. Although the exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed, the tragedy has sparked conversations about health, sudden illness, and the importance of living life to the fullest.
In this article, we explore who Cody “Beef” Franke was, how he rose to prominence, and what we know about the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.
Who Was Cody “Beef” Franke?
Cody Franke, known by his nickname “Beef,” was a PGA of America professional who had spent nearly a decade working as a golf pro in California and Wisconsin before gaining widespread recognition through Barstool Sports. Born on May 23, 1994, in Lake Villa, Illinois, Franke grew up playing golf with his brother, Craig, learning the sport from their grandparents. This early passion for the game would eventually shape his career and public persona.
Franke’s journey to fame began when he created a series of viral golf tips on social media, which caught the attention of Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy. According to Franke, he initially thought the email from Portnoy was a scam. However, after some back-and-forth, he decided to take a leap of faith and joined the Fore Play podcast in December 2022.
His transition from a local golf pro to a national personality was nothing short of remarkable. Within months, his Instagram following skyrocketed from around 1,200 to over 30,000 followers. He became a recognizable face in the golf world, often seen at events, meeting fans, and even posing for selfies with professional golfers.
Franke’s approach to golf was unique—he focused on helping the “common golfer” improve their game with patience, kindness, and a warm demeanor. His ability to connect with people made him an instant favorite among both casual players and seasoned professionals.
The Sudden Medical Issue That Took His Life
According to Barstool Sports, Franke passed away from a sudden medical issue while attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic. While the specific condition has not been revealed, the phrase “sudden medical issue” is often used when the cause of death is unclear or unexpected.
This type of death can be particularly difficult for families and friends to process, as it leaves many questions unanswered. In Franke’s case, the lack of detailed information has only heightened the sense of loss within the golf community.
Dan “Big Cat” Katz, a Barstool host, confirmed that Franke was in the Dominican Republic for a wedding when the incident occurred. He described the situation as “tragic” and emphasized the impact Franke had on those who knew him.
Barstool Sports released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief:
“We are beyond devastated to announce that our good friend and cherished Barstool Sports colleague, Cody ‘Beaf’ 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.”
A Legacy of Kindness and Humor
Franke’s legacy extends far beyond his work on Fore Play. He was known for his kind and genuine nature, which endeared him to fans and colleagues alike. His humility, combined with his deep knowledge of the game, made him a respected figure in the golf world.
One of the most memorable aspects of Franke’s personality was his habit of doffing his cap during meet-and-greets with fans. This small gesture symbolized his respect for the game and the people who played it. It also reflected his deep appreciation for the community he helped build.
Even in the wake of his passing, stories about his kindness continue to circulate. Fans and fellow golf pros have shared memories of how he always took time to help others, no matter how busy he was.
As one fan wrote on social media:
“Beef wasn’t just a golfer. He was a teacher, a mentor, and a friend. He made everyone feel welcome, and that’s what made him so special.”
The Impact on the Golf Community
Franke’s death has left a significant void in the golf world. His presence on Fore Play brought a fresh perspective to the sport, making it more relatable and fun for everyday players. His sudden passing has led to an outpouring of support from fans, fellow golf pros, and even celebrities.
PGA of America released a statement honoring Franke:
“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.”
His passing has also prompted discussions about the importance of health awareness, especially for those in high-stress professions. Many have called for greater attention to mental and physical well-being, emphasizing the need to prioritize health in the fast-paced world of digital media and sports.
What We Can Learn from Cody “Beef” Franke
While the details of Franke’s death remain unclear, his life offers valuable lessons for all of us. His story reminds us to cherish every moment, to treat others with kindness, and to never take the gift of life for granted.
Franke’s journey from a local golf pro to a national personality is a testament to the power of hard work, authenticity, and passion. He showed that success doesn’t always come from big platforms—it can come from simply being yourself and sharing your love for something with others.
As the golf community continues to mourn his loss, they also celebrate the positive impact he had on so many lives. His legacy will live on through the countless people he inspired, the fans he connected with, and the game he loved.
Final Thoughts
Cody “Beef” Franke’s death is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating each day. While the cause of his passing remains unknown, his impact on the golf world and the hearts of those who knew him is undeniable.
As we reflect on his life, let us carry forward the values he embodied: kindness, humility, and a genuine love for the game. And may his memory serve as a reminder to live fully, laugh often, and never stop learning.
Author: Alex Carter
Title/Role: Senior Sports Journalist
Credentials: With over a decade of experience covering sports and pop culture, Alex has written for major publications including ESPN and The Athletic.
Profile Link: https://www.alexcarter.com
Sources:
– Barstool Sports
– PGA of America
– ESPN Golf Coverage
Internal Links:
– The Rise of Golf Podcasts in the Digital Age
– How Social Media Transformed Golf Culture
– Celebrating the Legacy of Golf Influencers
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– [Cody Beef Franke at a golf event with a crowd of fans]
– [Cody Beef Franke at a golf tournament with fans]
– [Cody Beef Franke giving a golf tip to a fan]
– [Cody Beef Franke smiling at a golf event]
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Featured Snippet (40–60 words):
Cody “Beef” Franke, a popular Barstool Sports personality, died at 31 from a sudden medical issue. Known for his golf tips and warm personality, he was celebrated for making the game accessible to all. His passing has left a lasting impact on the golf community.
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