The dramatic 2020 split of “Call Her Daddy” podcast hosts Sofia Franklyn and Alex Cooper left fans wondering if the former best friends and roommates would ever reconcile. Their public falling out, fueled by contract disputes with Barstool Sports and conflicting narratives, led to the end of their popular podcast and seemingly, their friendship. But are they still friends today? Let’s delve into the history of their conflict and where they stand now.
The “Call Her Daddy” Fallout: A Timeline of Events
The “Call Her Daddy” drama unfolded publicly in the spring of 2020, culminating in the podcast’s hiatus and eventual split. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy publicly accused Franklyn of being “unprofessional, disloyal, and greedy,” alleging she was secretly negotiating with other companies. Franklyn, on the other hand, claimed she and Cooper were initially united in their desire for a better contract that included ownership of their intellectual property.
Alex Cooper and Sofia Franklyn in New York in 2019.
A key point of contention was Barstool’s proposed ownership of all “Call Her Daddy” alcohol-related rights in perpetuity, a clause Franklyn found unacceptable. She also argued for a larger share of merchandise revenue, claiming a 2.5% cut was unfair considering the podcast’s success and her creative contributions.
Conflicting Narratives and Cooper’s Spotify Deal
Cooper ultimately chose to stay with Barstool, a decision that further fractured her relationship with Franklyn. In a 2022 YouTube video, Cooper claimed she tried to convince Franklyn to accept Barstool’s offer, describing it as “the deal of a lifetime.” She expressed frustration with Franklyn’s demands and the involvement of her then-boyfriend, HBO executive Peter Nelson, in the negotiations. Cooper eventually signed a lucrative $60 million deal with Spotify in 2021, taking “Call Her Daddy” with her.
Sofia Franklyn in a recent photo.
This move highlighted the stark contrast between the two women’s career paths following the split. In 2020, Franklyn was vilified for seeking a better deal; a year later, Cooper was celebrated for securing a significantly larger one. This disparity led Franklyn to believe that her initial concerns about compensation were valid.
Franklyn’s Perspective and Allegations Against Portnoy
Franklyn maintains that she was unfairly portrayed during the controversy. She believes the backlash she received was amplified by sexism and the taboo surrounding women discussing their financial worth. Franklyn also expressed concerns about Barstool’s work environment, describing it as “bro-ish” and stating she witnessed inappropriate behavior from colleagues, though not directed at her personally. She further alleges that Cooper and Portnoy had a pre-existing relationship she was unaware of, contributing to the breakdown in trust.
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy.
In response to Franklyn’s assertions, Portnoy dismissed her claims, questioning her understanding of Barstool’s culture given her limited time in the office and minimal interaction with him. He characterized her account as inconsistent and unreliable.
Where Do They Stand Now?
Despite the acrimonious split, Franklyn claims she harbors no resentment towards Cooper or Portnoy. She prioritizes her personal integrity over financial gain, emphasizing that the alleged betrayal by her former friend hurt more than missing out on a large payout.
Franklyn has since launched her own successful podcast, “Sofia with an F,” where she continues to discuss sex, relationships, and pop culture. She has interviewed numerous celebrities and built a loyal following.
While neither Franklyn nor Cooper has publicly commented on the current status of their relationship, it’s safe to say based on past statements and the lack of any public reconciliation that Sofia Franklyn and Alex Cooper are not still friends. The “Call Her Daddy” split remains a significant event in the podcasting world, highlighting the complexities of female friendships, business negotiations, and the power dynamics within the entertainment industry.
