Corey “Big Hoss” Harrison: The Rise, Struggles, and Triumphs of Pawn Stars’ Beloved Star

Corey Harrison, widely known by fans as “Big Hoss,” is one of the central figures on the hit History Channel show Pawn Stars.

Known for his calm demeanor, sharp negotiating skills, and in-depth knowledge of the pawn industry, Harrison has built a career both on and off the screen.

However, behind the bright lights of television and the bustling atmosphere of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Corey Harrison’s life has been marked by struggles, personal challenges, and the relentless pressures of family expectations.

A Family Legacy in Pawning

Corey Harrison was born on April 27, 1983, in Las Vegas, Nevada, to Kim and Rick Harrison.

He is the grandson of Richard Benjamin Harrison, affectionately known as “The Old Man,” whose vision and dedication laid the groundwork for the family’s iconic pawn business.

Growing up immersed in the world of pawning, Corey witnessed firsthand the tireless work ethic required to turn a modest shop into a thriving enterprise.

The Harrison family’s story began in 1981, when Richard Benjamin Harrison opened a small 300-square-foot coin shop, the Gold & Silver Coin Shop, on Las Vegas Boulevard South.

Over the years, the shop evolved from its humble beginnings into the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, a destination known throughout America.

Rick Harrison, Corey’s father, worked alongside his father during the day and even repossessed cars at night to support the family business.

By 1986, the store relocated to a larger location on Fremont Street, though setbacks, such as the loss of a lease, forced the family to adapt and relocate once again.

In Rick Harrison’s autobiography, he recounts the struggles of securing a pawn license due to a 1955 Las Vegas law that limited new licenses based on the city’s population.

After years of persistence and weekly calls to the city statistician, Rick finally secured a license in 1989, allowing the family to establish the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop at its current location on Las Vegas Boulevard South, near the famous Las Vegas Strip.

By 2005, the shop was loaning out approximately $3 million annually and generating around $700,000 in interest income.

Corey grew up surrounded by this environment, learning the intricacies of buying, selling, and appraising items.

He also observed the personal stories of pawners, from gamblers pawning items to make it home to collectors seeking rare memorabilia.

Jewelry, in particular, was a frequent commodity, giving Corey a strong foundation in precious metals and appraisal.

The Birth of a Television Sensation

The transformation of the family shop into a television phenomenon began with Rick Harrison’s vision.

After pitching the idea for a show for four years, he finally caught the attention of producers Brent Montgomery and Colby Gaines of Leftfield Pictures.

In 2008, Pawn Stars debuted, featuring Rick, Corey, “The Old Man,” and Corey’s childhood friend Austin “Chumley” Russell.

Initially considered under the title Pawning History, the show was rebranded to Pawn Stars for broader appeal.

The series became an instant success, highlighting not only the business of pawning but also the vibrant personalities of the staff and the fascinating stories behind the items brought in by customers.

By January 2011, Pawn Stars was the highest-rated program on the History Channel and the second-highest-rated reality show in the United States, behind Jersey Shore.

Corey, who grew up absorbing his family’s expertise, quickly emerged as a central figure.

He became the de facto manager of day-to-day operations, overseeing the shop’s 30 employees and making crucial decisions about high-value purchases.

His expertise and willingness to take calculated risks helped solidify his place in the business and on television.

Challenges Behind the Cameras

Despite the fame and fortune, Corey Harrison’s life has not been without turmoil.

In 2014, he made headlines for an infamous night in Jefferson City, Missouri, during a sponsored motorcycle tour.

After a week of partying, Harrison visited a local bar, where his behavior quickly escalated.

Reports indicated he was intoxicated, exposed himself, urinated on a bar stool, and even threw furniture before being removed from the establishment.

The incident sparked public backlash, though Corey later apologized, admitting, “Not my finest moment.

I am truly sorry for my behavior.”

That same year, Corey survived a near-fatal motorcycle accident.

During a supply run for a birthday party, his bike malfunctioned, forcing him to jump off to avoid a serious crash.

The accident resulted in a broken hand requiring surgery, with eight screws and two plates inserted, yet he returned to his party before seeking medical attention.

Corey’s professional and personal struggles extended to tensions within the family business.

Known for his ambition, he once demanded a stake in the shop, threatening to leave if he was not granted ownership.

During season seven of Pawn Stars, viewers witnessed a dramatic confrontation with Rick and “The Old Man,” where Corey stood firm, requesting a 10% partnership.

The negotiation resulted in a 5% stake with promises of a larger share in the future, solidifying his role as an essential decision-maker in the shop.

His net worth is now estimated at $5 million.

Recent Legal and Personal Troubles

Harrison’s challenges continued in the following years.

In 2020, a recreational RV trip to the California desert turned chaotic.

Corey allegedly failed to return the RV on the agreed date, and it was returned damaged, requiring $30,000 in repairs.

Despite evidence of the damage and delayed return, Harrison’s representatives claimed insurance coverage would handle the matter, though public opinion remained skeptical.

Corey’s personal life has also been turbulent.

He has endured two divorces, the first with his high school sweetheart Charlene in 2015, and the second with Karina, nicknamed “Ke,” lasting only a year.

Karina gave birth to their son, Richard Benjamin Harrison, following the divorce.

Corey has since been linked to Tara Paisley and other partners, though his romantic life remains private.

In 2023, Corey faced legal troubles again when he was pulled over for allegedly driving under the influence in Las Vegas.

Witnesses reported bloodshot eyes and the odor of alcohol.

Though the results of his blood test remain publicly unknown, Harrison was booked for a DUI, adding another chapter to his public struggles.

Family Loss and Emotional Struggles

Beyond legal and personal setbacks, Corey has faced profound personal losses.

In June 2018, “The Old Man” Richard Harrison passed away at the age of 77 from Parkinson’s disease.

His death was a significant blow to the Harrison family and fans of Pawn Stars worldwide.

Corey and the family mourned deeply, with the show dedicating episodes to honoring his memory.

Tragedy struck again with the death of Corey’s brother, Adam Harrison, reportedly from a fentanyl overdose at age 39.

Though Adam was not featured on the show, he shared a close bond with Corey and Rick Harrison.

Corey paid tribute to his brother with a heartfelt Instagram post, sharing a childhood photo and writing, “I will always love you, bub,” underscoring the deep personal impact of the loss.

A Life of Contrasts

Corey Harrison’s life is a striking blend of success, notoriety, and personal struggle.

On one hand, he has helped transform the family pawn shop into a global brand, securing his place in the hearts of millions of fans.

On the other, he has navigated public scandals, personal setbacks, and family tensions that have tested his resilience.

Fans of Pawn Stars know Corey as a shrewd, knowledgeable, and occasionally hot-headed figure who balances respect for tradition with a willingness to take calculated risks.

Whether negotiating the value of rare collectibles, managing the shop’s operations, or facing his own challenges, Corey Harrison embodies both the rewards and the pressures of life in the public eye.

Legacy and Future Prospects

Despite the hurdles, Corey Harrison’s influence in the pawn industry and on television remains substantial.

He continues to work alongside Rick Harrison and Chumley, maintaining the family legacy while mentoring new employees and navigating the evolving business landscape.

His dedication to the craft of pawning, combined with his media presence, ensures that he remains a recognizable and influential figure in American popular culture.

Corey’s story is a reminder that fame and fortune do not shield one from life’s difficulties.

From personal loss to public scrutiny, Corey has faced numerous challenges yet continues to persevere, demonstrating resilience and determination.

His experiences illustrate that behind every public figure lies a complex human story, full of triumphs and tribulations alike.

As Pawn Stars continues to entertain audiences with its blend of history, humor, and human drama, Corey “Big Hoss” Harrison stands as a central figure—a man who has inherited a family legacy, navigated personal and professional trials, and continues to leave his mark on the world of pawning.

His journey is one of ambition, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of balance between family, business, and personal growth.

Corey Harrison’s life story serves as a testament to the power of determination, the importance of family, and the enduring appeal of authenticity in the public eye.

Fans eagerly follow his journey, knowing that behind the transactions, negotiations, and television cameras lies a man navigating the complexities of life with courage and tenacity.