Richard Harrison: Legacy & Death On Pawn Stars - [Updates & News]
Can a pawn shop, a place often associated with fleeting transactions, truly become a global phenomenon and a testament to the enduring power of family and the allure of history? The story of the Harrisons and their Gold & Silver Pawn Shop definitively answers with a resounding yes, crafting a legacy that intertwines shrewd business acumen with the compelling narratives found in everyday objects.
The world first met the Harrison family, the heart and soul of the world-famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, when "Pawn Stars" premiered in 2009. The show quickly became a massive hit, drawing millions of viewers who tuned in to watch the family's interactions, the negotiation process, and the occasional historical discovery. At the center of the show, and the pawn shop itself, were the patriarch, Richard "The Old Man" Harrison, his son Rick Harrison, and Rick's son, Corey "Big Hoss" Harrison, along with their longtime friend and employee, Austin "Chumlee" Russell. Their ability to assess, value, and ultimately buy and sell a range of unique and often historic items created a viewing experience unlike any other.
The premise was simple: customers would bring in items, hoping to sell them. The Harrisons and Chumlee would then use their combined knowledge to determine the item's authenticity, rarity, and value, before making an offer. The negotiations, often tense and always entertaining, became a signature element of the show. From rare coins and vintage firearms to historical documents and unique artifacts, the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop became a treasure trove for both the show and the real-life collectors who frequented it.
The heart of "Pawn Stars" was undoubtedly the family dynamic. The often-prickly relationship between Rick and his father, Richard, was a constant source of humor and emotional depth. Their disagreements, their mutual respect, and their shared passion for the business provided a relatable core for viewers. Corey and Chumlee, also became popular figure, offering their own expertise and adding to the show's appeal. Their presence made the show attractive for a wider range of audiences.
The shop, a tangible place where history and commerce collided, offered an unparalleled access to the past. Every item brought in held a story, creating an opportunity to educate and entertain. The Harrisons, and Chumlee, became skilled storytellers, not just pawnbrokers. They transformed each transaction into a miniature history lesson, highlighting the significance of each item and its context.
Tragedy, as it often does, arrived to the Harrison family. On June 25, 2018, the family was struck with immense grief: Richard "The Old Man" Harrison passed away at the age of 77, after a long battle. The news spread around the globe in a matter of time and as the world mourned, the show, and the business, lost its cornerstone. His death was a shock for fans, and even more so for Rick Harrison and his family. Not long after, the family was again in grief, when Adam Harrison, Rick's son, passed away at the age of 39, in 2024, the manner of death was ruled as accidental. It's evident that the family has faced many hardships, yet they still strive to continue what Richard "The Old Man" Harrison created.
Here's a glimpse into the individuals who shaped the "Pawn Stars" phenomenon.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Benjamin Harrison |
| Also Known As | "The Old Man" |
| Born | March 4, 1941 |
| Died | June 25, 2018 (age 77) |
| Place of Birth | Danville, Virginia, U.S. |
| Profession | Businessman, Pawn Broker, Television Personality |
| Known For | Co-owner of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, Star of Pawn Stars |
| Spouse | Joanne Rhue Harrison (married) |
| Children | Rick Harrison, Joseph Kent Harrison, Chris Harrison, and Sherry Joanne Harrison |
| Reference | IMDB |
Rick Harrison, born March 22, 1965, is the son of Richard Benjamin Harrison. He has carried the torch of his family's legacy, continuing to operate the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop and star in "Pawn Stars". Known for his shrewd business sense and his ability to navigate the often-volatile world of antique dealing, Rick has become a recognizable figure, charming fans and would-be collectors. Rick's life has not been without controversy. He continues to maintain a crucial part of the history channel show since 2009.
Corey Harrison, often called "Big Hoss," is Richard's grandson and Rick's son. He has grown up on the show and in the pawn shop. Now, he's a vital part of the business. He often provides expertise on particular items. Corey's development from a young man, always butting heads with his father and grandfather to a crucial member of the shop, has been a story of its own right, making him one of the most relatable characters on the show.
Austin Lee Russell, widely known as "Chumlee", has been a staple on "Pawn Stars". He is a childhood friend of Corey Harrison. He is a long time employee of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. Chumlee's comedic charm and his genuine excitement for the items that come through the shop have earned him a special place in the hearts of the viewers. Chumlee has also altered his lifestyle habits and lost a significant amount of weight, improving his diet and exercising, this was after his father's death from pancreatic cancer.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Kevin Harrison |
| Also Known As | Rick |
| Born | March 22, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Lexington, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Profession | Businessman, Pawn Broker, Television Personality |
| Known For | Co-owner of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, Star of Pawn Stars |
| Spouse | Kim Harrison (m. 19821985), Tracy Harrison (m. 20102011), Deanna Burditt (m. 20132015) |
| Children | Corey Harrison, Adam Harrison, Jake Harrison |
| Reference | IMDB |
The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, the physical embodiment of the "Pawn Stars" phenomenon, has evolved into a landmark. Rick and his father opened the shop in 1988, the shop quickly became known for its large collection of artifacts and unique items, which they would determine whether a customer's antique is valuable or not, and by 2009 it had turned into a hit reality show. The shop attracts thousands of visitors each year, who come to see the stars in person, to browse the collection of items, and to catch a glimpse of television history.
The show's impact extended beyond the world of television. It introduced viewers to the history of the pawn shop, which is, an underappreciated component of society. The show has helped to break down any negative stereotypes that surround the pawn industry. The program emphasizes the value of hard work, expertise, and family bonds. "Pawn Stars" has become a cultural touchstone, providing a common ground for discussions, and a shared interest in history, business, and interpersonal relationships.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Austin Lee Russell |
| Also Known As | Chumlee |
| Born | September 8, 1982 |
| Place of Birth | Henderson, Nevada, U.S. |
| Profession | Pawn Broker, Television Personality |
| Known For | Employee of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, Star of Pawn Stars |
| Spouse | No spouse |
| Children | No children |
| Reference | IMDB |
As the show continues and the world of "Pawn Stars" evolves, the family must navigate new challenges and triumphs. The memory of Richard "The Old Man" Harrison, the patriarch, continues to be a driving force, inspiring the next generation to uphold the values that defined the show's success. The show continues to find new ways to engage its audience, introduce new items and narratives, and keep the spirit of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop alive and well.
The legacy of the Harrison family and "Pawn Stars" extends beyond the walls of the shop. It's a story of resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and the ever-present human need to connect with the past. Their contribution has left an indelible mark on television history. Their success, in its most basic essence, is due to a willingness to embrace the unpredictability of life, to value family bonds, and to recognize the power of shared history. With the show's return for season 23, the legacy of the Harrisons continues to grow, one item, one negotiation, and one episode at a time.
