Barstool Sports is mourning the loss of one of its cherished team members. Jonathan Stanko, a production technician with the company since 2021, passed away at the age of 32 after a courageous battle with stage four stomach cancer. Barstool founder Dave Portnoy announced the news in an emotional tribute shared on social media.
Stanko first revealed his diagnosis in May 2024 through a heartfelt blog post. He shared that he was battling stage four stomach cancer and was given an estimated 14 months to live if chemotherapy proved ineffective. Despite the grim prognosis, Stanko continued to work tirelessly at Barstool, leaving a lasting impression on his colleagues and the company’s audience.
Remembering Jonathan Stanko
Portnoy expressed his grief and admiration for Stanko in a poignant post on X (formerly Twitter).
“Stanko was one of the best people I’ve had the pleasure of working with,” Portnoy wrote. “Well-liked by literally everybody he came into contact with. It’s the first time we’ve faced something this heavy in 20 years of Barstool. A cruel reminder to never take a day for granted because tomorrow isn’t promised.”
Other Barstool personalities echoed Portnoy’s sentiments, sharing their own tributes to Stanko. Dan “Big Cat” Katz called the loss “truly heartbreaking and incredibly unfair.” He continued, “Stanko was an integral part of everything we do at Barstool. An incredible talent, a great friend to all, and someone who will be deeply missed. Rest in peace, and f–k cancer.”
Producer Connor Griffin reflected on Stanko’s unwavering dedication and kindness, recalling how Stanko once offered to run the entire Mintzy 10K while carrying a full-size camera. “That moment opened my eyes to just how much of a warrior he was,” Griffin wrote. “He was truly one of Barstool’s best, and his absence will be felt deeply.”
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A Legacy Beyond Barstool
Before joining Barstool, Stanko worked at Iona University’s athletic department, where he served as an assistant director of athletic communications. His alma mater, where he graduated in 2014, released a statement honoring him:
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Jonathan Stanko, a beloved member of the Iona University family. Jonathan dedicated more than a decade of his life to the athletic department, leaving a lasting mark on our community and the countless lives he touched. His kindness, unwavering dedication, and infectious spirit will forever remain a part of who we are.”
Steve Kultzow, who worked alongside Stanko at both Iona and Barstool, penned a heartfelt tribute to his friend of 14 years.
“It was an honor to call Jonathan my best friend, roommate, and coworker,” Kultzow wrote. “I couldn’t have asked for a better companion through the years. His strength, humor, and heart made him truly one of a kind. I’ll miss him dearly.”
Survived by Loved Ones
Stanko is survived by his wife, Emma, who stood by his side throughout his battle with cancer. The couple’s love and resilience inspired many who followed their journey.
A Lasting Impact
Though Stanko’s time with Barstool was tragically cut short, his contributions and the relationships he built have left an indelible mark. His colleagues, friends, and the broader Barstool community will remember him for his relentless spirit, professionalism, and warm-hearted nature.
In his memory, Barstool and Iona University have both encouraged donations to cancer research organizations, ensuring that his battle will inspire efforts to fight the disease and bring hope to others.
