AceShowbiz - On Tuesday, December 17, Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy addressed the departure of Grace O'Malley, who recently left the company following a falling out with longtime friend and podcast co-host Brianna LaPaglia a.k.a. Chickenfry. Portnoy denied rumors that he forced O'Malley out, stating that he was not taking sides in their dispute.

According to Portnoy, the conflict began when LaPaglia expressed her desire to end their podcast, "PlanBri Uncut", in October. He attributed the breakdown of their friendship to the alleged abusive behavior of LaPaglia's ex-boyfriend, Zach Bryan, towards O'Malley.

Portnoy claimed that he reached out to O'Malley after LaPaglia's announcement, reassuring her that he supported her despite his close relationship with LaPaglia. However, he expressed his disappointment with O'Malley's subsequent statement on Instagram, which he believed exacerbated the backlash against LaPaglia.

Portnoy explained that he confronted O'Malley about her statement, emphasizing that he wanted to move on from the drama. He also defended LaPaglia, stating that he had been defending his friends for years and that O'Malley did not need his support as the internet was firmly on her side.

Regarding O'Malley's decision to leave Barstool Sports, Portnoy revealed that she had a year and a half left on her contract. However, he respected her decision and wished her the best. Portnoy added that he had invited O'Malley to appear on the "BFFs" podcast, but it did not come to fruition.

In conclusion, Dave Portnoy expressed his regret over the fallout between O'Malley and LaPaglia, acknowledging that it was a difficult situation for everyone involved. He clarified that he was not picking sides and wished both parties happiness.