Barstool Sports, founded by Dave Portnoy in 2003, grew from a free Boston-area print paper into a major digital media company known for sports journalism, pop culture, and personality-driven content, including the hit podcast Pardon My Take and a devoted fanbase called "Stoolies." The company expanded rapidly, moving fully online in 2010 after launching city-specific blogs like Barstool New York in 2009, and by 2013 it attracted over 4 million monthly users, while securing major investments from The Chernin Group and Penn Entertainment and media deals with Fox Sports and Netflix. Beyond its core blog, Barstool diversified into merchandise, live events, food and beverage brands, and sports betting partnerships, also acquiring the sports blog Old Row and the amateur boxing contest Rough N Rowdy. However, the site has faced significant controversies, including a 2011 post featuring nude photos of Tom Brady's toddler son and a 2010 comment from Portnoy about rape, which critics condemned as sexualizing minors and promoting rape culture, though Portnoy defended them as satire. Additionally, its "Barstool Blackout Tour" parties (2011–2012) drew criticism for promoting excessive drinking and were linked to assaults, prompting concern from Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino. Despite these issues, Barstool has maintained a strong cultural influence, with its loyal fanbase and high-profile partnerships cementing its place in the sports media landscape.