Full Breakdown
Dave Portnoy’s Memoir *Cancel Me If You Can* Unpacks Feuds, Controversies, and Business Moves
7/2/2026, 2:45:11 AM
Memoir Launch and Core Narrative
In June 2026 Dave Portnoy released his first memoir, *Cancel Me If You Can*, a 300-page book produced for a seven-figure advance that recounts Barstool’s rise, personal scandals, and disputes with journalists.
Barstool Sports Background
Barstool began in 2003 as a Boston print sports newspaper, later shifting to a TikTok-driven digital brand. Early tactics included unpaid ads, unlicensed photo use, and “Smokeshow of the Day” submissions, which Portnoy later described as part of the company’s growth.
Timeline
2003 – Barstool launch; 2018 – *Call Her Daddy* debut; 2020 – rooftop meeting over Cooper-Franklyn contract; 2024 – Simmons interview rebuff; 2025 – Russillo hired from The Ringer; 2026 – memoir released.
Feuds and Business Moves
The memoir details a decade-long feud with ESPN writer Bill Simmons, noting ten interview requests before a 2024 rebuff and quoting, “I wouldn’t say it hurt my feelings, but it definitely pissed me off.” Portnoy hired former Ringer host Ryen Russillo in 2025, calling it “closing the loop.”
Call Her Daddy Contract Drama
The book recounts the 2018 launch of *Call Her Daddy* with Alex Cooper and Sofia Franklyn. By 2020 Cooper disclosed a three-year deal paying $75k, $85k and $100k annually. Portnoy’s rooftop meeting offered $500k, a 3.5 % merch share and a six-month contract cut, then claims he leaked the dispute to the New York Post.
Official Statements & Responses
Portnoy says Barstool is a comedic brand distinct from mainstream outlets, noting its commentary “doesn’t hit” compared with CNN, NPR, or the New York Times, and frames the memoir as a factual record.
Criticism & Opposition
Sources cite Portnoy’s past sexist jokes, a rape joke, and a recorded N-word rap as offensive. Journalists Julia Black, Mina Kimes, and Liz Day are targeted, and critics view the memoir as self-promotion.
Data & Statistics
Barstool is valued at roughly $600 million. The memoir’s advance is seven-figure. *Call Her Daddy* paid $75k-$100k annually, with a $500k rooftop offer and 3.5 % merch share. Russillo’s 2025 hire added three former Ringer producers.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Portnoy claims Cooper planned a false sexual-harassment allegation, yet Cooper’s statements do not confirm this. The claim that Portnoy leaked the dispute to the New York Post lacks independent verification.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I wouldn’t say it hurt my feelings, but it definitely pissed me off.” — Dave Portnoy, memoir
- “It worked perfectly: Alex and Sofia completely severed all communication.” — Dave Portnoy, memoir
- “Yeah, it’s mean, but it’s truthful and it’s my book, so I don’t give a fuck.” — Dave Portnoy, memoir
What’s Next
Portnoy hopes Cooper will promote the memoir, and Cooper’s 2025 docuseries revisits the *Call Her Daddy* split. The book’s release may prompt further scrutiny of Barstool’s past practices and future talent deals.
