Cody “Beef” Franke death: Barstool Sports golf creator dies at 31 after sudden medical issue

Cody “Beef” Franke, a rising golf content creator for Barstool Sports, has died at the age of 31 following a sudden medical issue over the weekend. The news was shared on Monday, October 27, 2025, prompting an outpouring of grief from colleagues, friends, and fans who celebrated his kindness, humor, and love for the game.

Cody Franke cause of death: what is known

As of today, the specific cause of death has not been disclosed. Colleagues said Franke experienced a sudden medical issue while attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic. No additional medical details have been released, and further updates may depend on family wishes and official documentation. In situations like this, early information often focuses on timing and location while formal determinations arrive later; for now, the most accurate public framing is that the death followed a sudden medical emergency.

Who was Cody “Beef” Franke at Barstool Sports?

Franke joined Barstool Sports in 2025 as part of its Fore Play golf team after a career working in golf operations and instruction, including stints as a club professional. He built a fast-growing following through approachable swing tips, course vlogs, and playful on-course challenges. Fans gravitated to his “every-golfer” perspective: enthusiastic, respectful, and endlessly supportive—epitomized by a small gesture that went viral when he removed his cap before a post-round handshake.

Tributes to Cody Beef Franke from the golf community

News of Franke’s death triggered a wave of tributes across the golf community. Teammates and friends remembered him as “the nicest guy in the world,” a creator who lifted up everyone around him and made the sport feel welcoming. Messages highlighted his patience with beginners, his energy on shoots, and the way he treated work trips like a chance to make new friends. Professionals who had collaborated with him on tutorials and challenges emphasized that his on-camera warmth matched the person they saw off camera.

Career highlights and rapid rise

• Content breakout: Franke’s short swing-tip clips—delivered without jargon—helped him break through in an increasingly crowded golf creator space.

• Club professional roots: His background as a head professional and coach gave authority to his instruction and empathy for everyday golfers.

• Fore Play integration: In 2025 he became a regular presence in Barstool’s golf ecosystem, appearing in travel videos, match-play series, and fan events.

• Community touch: Franke frequently interacted with followers, answering gear and technique questions and encouraging newcomers to stick with the game.

What happens next: memorials, schedule notes, and privacy

Colleagues have asked fans to give the family space as arrangements are made. Memorial details were not immediately available on Monday. It’s common for creator-led productions to adjust publishing schedules in the aftermath of a tragedy; viewers should expect programming changes as coworkers process the loss and discuss plans with Franke’s family. Any official celebration-of-life information is likely to be shared by his team once finalized.

Why Cody Franke mattered to Barstool Sports and golf fans

Franke’s appeal rested on authenticity. He came across as a friend walking the fairway beside you—playing the wrong shot now and then, laughing it off, then offering a quick tip that actually helped. That mix of humility and know-how is rare and explains how he forged such strong connections so quickly. For a brand built on fan-to-creator intimacy, his presence helped bridge elite golf culture and the casual weekend round.

Context on sudden medical issues and public information

When deaths are described as resulting from a sudden medical issue, the term can encompass a range of possibilities, from cardiac events to other acute conditions. Families often choose when and whether to share specifics after coroner or medical examiner reviews. Until that process concludes—or unless relatives elect to speak publicly—newsrooms and colleagues typically avoid speculation. That remains the case here.

Remembering Cody “Beef” Franke

Cody Franke leaves behind a community that felt seen by his content and uplifted by his personality. He made golf lighter without making it less serious, giving viewers permission to enjoy the game and themselves. In the coming days, fans will likely revisit favorite clips—one-club challenges, smooth tempo drills, course-side banter—and be reminded of what made “Beef” special: a generous spirit and a belief that golf should be fun for everyone.

This is a developing story. Details may evolve as the family and team share further information.