The online sports and golf community is once again remembering Cody “Beef” Franke, the beloved Barstool Sports personality who passed away unexpectedly in late October 2025. The 31-year-old influencer, who is renowned for his approachable golf videos and rising fame on Barstool’s Fore Play Team, passed away during a brief trip to the Dominican Republic. Although his death is being mourned, Cody is once again in trends on X (formerly known as Twitter) and other social media platforms. It has left several fans of the influencer in confusion. Here is why he is once again in discussion, weeks after his death.
Why is Cody Franke trending on the Internet again?
Cody Franke’s name is again dominating the headlines weeks after his death as the new episode of Barstool’s Internet Invitational was released on YouTube. It featured him in one of his final filmed appearances. According to PGA and Forbes reports, Cody and his team won the USD 1 million grand prize back in August, but the episode featuring the finale was released recently. When the viewers watched Cody celebrate, joke, and seriously discuss his and his teammates’ plan to use the prize money to buy a home for his parents, they became emotional. One fan wrote on X:
“I couldn’t control my emotions watching him… what a moment.”
Furthermore, the episode offered fans a glimpse into Cody’s passion for the game, his excitement, and genuine joy. Additionally, his brother, Craig Franke, also contributed to the new attention on Cody as she penned a heartfelt tribute for his brother. He mentioned Cody’s ‘old-fashioned’ charisma and ‘committed professionalism’, which helped him make a special place in the hearts of golf fans worldwide. Meanwhile, fans are continuously sharing his old clips on X and Reddit, explaining how the release made them feel his loss all over once again.”
What is the other reason behind ‘RIP Cody Franke’ going viral?
Another reason why Cody Franke is trending on the internet is that his fans are actively searching for more information about his sudden death. Several Barstool insiders have confirmed that the cause of Cody’s sudden death will soon be revealed to the fans. It has started a new speculation on the internet. Although Barstool hosts urged fans not to speculate and wait until they release further official updates. Meanwhile, other Fore Play co-hosts shared online that the past few weeks have been ‘tough’ for the Barstool family.
What caused Cody “Beef” Franke’s death?
As of now, Cody’s exact cause of death has not been publicly confirmed. According to a Barstool Sports statement shared on October 27, he passed away from a “sudden medical issue” while attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic. Dan “Big Cat” Katz shared the news live on The Yak podcast, calling it “devastating” for both colleagues and fans. Barstool founder Dave Portnoy described the loss as “a cruel reminder that tomorrow is never promised.” No additional medical details have been released, and the family has requested privacy while the investigation continues.
Who Was Cody ‘Beef’ Franke?
Cody Franke was a respected PGA of America Golf Professional before he joined Barstool in March 2025. He spent nearly 19 years as the head pro at Thornberry Creek, Wisconsin. Based on his work there, he was popularly referred to as ‘common instructor for the common golfer’. Cody’s relatable teaching style for golf made him popular on social media, earning him nearly 50,000 Instagram followers, two PGA Section Awards, and a dedicated student base. However, his personal life and family have been kept out of the spotlight.
Rest in peace, Cody “Beef” Franke
