Portnoy Memoir: Ego, Feuds, and Bradley Cooper Dreams

Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, has released his memoir, "Cancel Me If You Can," chronicling his nearly two-decade career.

Portnoy attributes his decision to write the book to ego, envisioning it as a potential bestseller like Howard Stern's "Private Parts," complete with a movie adaptation. He humorously suggests Bradley Cooper would be his ideal on-screen counterpart.

The memoir traces Portnoy's trajectory from a Boston newspaper publisher to a cultural influencer, detailing his sale of Barstool for $551 million and subsequent repurchase for $1. He recounts instigating feuds, including a notable one with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, and lists figures like Business Insider and Sofia Franklyn as enemies.

A significant portion of the book delves into the strained relationship Portnoy once had with "Pardon My Take" hosts Dan Katz and Eric Sollenberger. This tension reportedly stemmed from their growing independence and differing approaches, exacerbated by their brief stint with ESPN for "Barstool Van Talk," which was canceled shortly after its debut.

Portnoy's entrepreneurial journey began with a sports betting newspaper, funded by personal savings and a loan. He describes Barstool's growth from a blog to a national brand, built on an "everyman" ethos that resonated with a dedicated fanbase.

The memoir also revisits Portnoy's infamous 2015 arrest for handcuffing himself to colleagues outside the NFL offices in protest of Tom Brady's suspension, a stunt that cemented his image as an anti-establishment figure.

In 2021, Portnoy faced accusations of sexual misconduct detailed in a Business Insider report. He vehemently denied these claims, calling the report dishonest, and subsequently lost a defamation lawsuit against the publication.

Portnoy reflects on his unique position as a capitalist who, despite Barstool's non-political roots, interviewed President Trump in 2020 and sometimes feels a kinship with him, while also acknowledging a need for a more unifying national leader.

Despite public conflicts, Portnoy emphasizes loyalty in his personal life, maintaining a close relationship with his ex-wife, Renee Portnoy, whom he credits for her instrumental role in building Barstool.