In a shocking incident that has sparked outrage across social media, Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy reacted vehemently to an anti-Semitic sign displayed at the Barstool Sansom Street bar in Philadelphia. The sign, which read "F the Jews," was held up by waitresses during a night of revelry at the bar, prompting Portnoy to label the situation an "Emergency Press Conference" in a video posted on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
Portnoy, who is Jewish, expressed his outrage, stating that he had never received complaints about the bar before. "Usually a great bar. You know, bottle service, people buy drinks, you get a sign. There was a sign yesterday that said, 'F the Jews,'" he said, visibly shaken. He explained that his phone had been "blowing up" with messages about the incident while he was preparing for another event.
"I've been shaking. I've been so mad for the last two hours. Like I instantly got on, this is why the Emergency Press Conference is late, because I was so over the top," Portnoy stated. He made it clear that he was determined to hold those responsible accountable, vowing to "come for throats" and make it his "life fing mission to ruin these people."
In his quest for accountability, Portnoy said he spent the hours leading up to the video tracking down the waitresses and patrons involved in the incident. He confirmed that both waitresses who held up the sign had been fired, calling one of them "one of the dumbest fing humans I've ever talked to in my life." He emphasized that he wanted consequences for their actions, stating, "You think I'm gonna put up with this st at my bar?"
Following the incident, Portnoy spoke to a Temple University student believed to be behind the now-deleted video that showcased the sign. The student, who had tagged another individual in the footage, claimed not to have been at the bar that night. Portnoy recounted the conversation, saying, "I had this kid basically in tears, turning state witness to me, rolling on the people who were there."
Portnoy's response to the incident has drawn significant attention, not just for his fiery rhetoric but also for his proposed solution. Initially, he suggested sending the individuals involved to Auschwitz as a way to educate them about the Holocaust. In a follow-up statement, he clarified his intention, stating, "I’m sending these kids to Auschwitz. They’re gonna do a tour of the concentration camps. Hopefully learn something." He also mentioned that he had been in touch with Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots, who runs an anti-hate group.
In his initial video, Portnoy said, "I’m going to make it my life’s fing mission to ruin these people. I’m coming to your throat, I’m never ending." However, he later reflected on the potential consequences of his anger, suggesting that perhaps a more educational approach could be beneficial. "These are young f**ing morons who did this. They’re drunk. Do you really want to ruin somebody’s life?" he asked.
Portnoy’s reaction has resonated with many, including his employees. Barstool college football creator Kayce Smith expressed her disgust, stating, "This is absolutely sickening. My heart hurts for my Jewish friends and family knowing how much hate they face daily." Another Barstool creator, Rico Bosco, echoed similar sentiments, calling the act "horrifically hateful."
In a statement released to the university community, Temple University President John Fry confirmed that the school’s Division of Student Affairs had identified one student believed to be involved and placed them on interim suspension. Fry condemned the act, stating, "In the strongest terms possible, let me be clear: antisemitism is abhorrent. It has no place at Temple and acts of hatred and discrimination against any person or persons are not tolerated at this university."
The incident has sparked discussions about the rise of antisemitism in the United States, particularly following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks by Hamas on Jewish individuals in Israel. The Anti-Defamation League reported a record high of antisemitic incidents in the U.S. last year, with more than half of the 9,354 incidents being related to Israel.
As Portnoy continues to navigate the fallout from this incident, he remains focused on holding those responsible accountable while also considering the educational opportunities that may arise from it. "Maybe I can use this as a teaching moment," he said, emphasizing the importance of addressing such hateful behavior effectively.
In the wake of this incident, many are left wondering how Barstool Sports will address the underlying issues related to hate speech and discrimination within its venues. As the investigation continues, Portnoy's commitment to accountability and education will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.
