Barstool Sports was grown upon the principle of ignoring political correctness and defying the traditional media establishment, and they should stand by their values in today’s political climate. Calls for political correctness should be ignored. If they collapse to this pressure they will alienate the fan base that allowed them to grow. Yes, Barstool’s humor is an acquired taste of controversial statements and (sometimes) poorly tasted ridicule. But, there is a place for this humor in this world. It should not be limited on the basis that it offends some, and should certainly not cause Barstool to lose any business opportunity.  

Major league sports have seen a recent infusion of politics into the playing field, from anthem protests to political statements. Barstool sports would not be considered apolitical, but their young and personable journalists provide a humorous approach to these polarizing situations. This humor, even when it concerns things other than politics such as sports, food, or celebrities may contain profanity, sexual innuendos, and very blunt remarks. But, this is what the viewers want and so it is what they are given.

John McDermott of MEL Magazine states, “Barstool provides a haven from the endless back and forth over the meaning and efficacy of the anthem protests” (McDermott 5). This news outlet is not tied down to abide by proper political correctness, and their freely speaking dialogue parallels with what many of their readers think themselves but do not say out loud. For that reason, this is why Barstool is so relatable and revered.

Barstool Sports recently lost a show on ESPN. After one late night airing, Disney ended the relationship between Barstool and its’ entities. This situation highlights how Barstool’s behavior and subject matter clashes with other media giants and this creates issues. Thankfully, Barstool said this would not affect how they operate. A handful of poorly tasted jokes or comments should not be used for the basis to alienate Barstool from other major media outlets. If these sensitive jokes are what people love them for, potential business partners should accept and invite this rather than defy it.

In an article for Market Watch, Trey Williams stated “Barstool where it is today by virtue of where it has been. You can’t separate Barstool from how it got here” (WIlliams 3). And that is exactly my point; Barstool’s values have allowed them to grow into fame, and now that they have this fame they cannot change their values. They should not change to please other people, potential business partners, or the mainstream media establishment. Barstool has no trouble making headlines, and they should have no intention of backing down anytime soon.