What started as a media interview quickly turned into a fiery confrontation when Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy sat down with a reporter from ABC Philadelphia.
The topic? A deeply disturbing anti-Semitic display at Barstool Sansom Street, a Philadelphia bar carrying the Barstool brand.
A Disturbing Scene Goes Viral
The controversy erupted after a video surfaced online over the weekend showing a bottle service worker holding a sign that read “F*** the Jews” in flashing lights.
The video, which was posted to a now-deleted Instagram account, triggered widespread outrage—especially considering Portnoy is Jewish himself.
Once made aware of the video, Portnoy took swift action.
On Sunday, he posted a detailed account of the incident on X (formerly Twitter), sharing that he had fired two waitresses from the venue and had also identified the guests responsible for requesting the offensive sign.
Portnoy Calls Out Media’s Handling of the Story
As expected, the situation drew intense media interest.
ABC Philadelphia reached out to Portnoy for an interview, which he says he only agreed to after being persistently asked.
But once the conversation started, Portnoy was caught off guard.
According to him, the unnamed reporter blindsided him by suggesting—without evidence—that Barstool’s company culture could have influenced the hateful act.
Portnoy was outraged, especially when the reporter referenced what he called a “made-up journal” quote allegedly linked to two professors from the University of Virginia.
Things Turn Ugly On Camera
In a video of the interview later posted by Portnoy, he’s seen challenging the reporter to cite her sources.
When she struggled to do so convincingly, tensions escalated.
Portnoy pushed back, asking whether Barstool or college campuses were more responsible for fueling hate. The reporter declined to answer.
Frustrated, Portnoy ended the interview abruptly by slamming his laptop shut, muttering “F*ing ahole” as he walked away.
He later accused the network of using a “bait and switch” tactic, claiming he was told someone else would conduct the interview.
A Strong Reaction Followed by a Teaching Opportunity
Portnoy didn’t hold back when reacting to the incident on Sunday.
He admitted his first thought was to “burn these people to the ground.”
But after cooling down, he opted for a different approach.
He revealed he had spoken with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft—who runs the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism—about turning the incident into a learning experience.
Portnoy said he plans to send the individuals involved to Auschwitz in hopes it serves as a powerful lesson.
University and Police Take Action
One of those involved is reportedly a student at Temple University.
The school’s president, John Fry, confirmed that a student had been identified and placed on interim suspension pending further investigation.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia police are also looking into the situation.
Officer Tanya Little stated that the department is actively investigating and will share updates when available.
Portnoy Speaks on a Larger Pattern
The 48-year-old Barstool founder also shared that he’s encountered a rise in anti-Semitism over the past year and a half—more than he ever experienced since starting the company.
He believes this particular incident, as offensive as it was, might serve as a crucial learning opportunity if handled correctly.
