What Happened to the Pawn Stars Cast? A Deep Dive into Their Lives After the Show

Pawn Stars has become a cultural phenomenon since it premiered in 2009, chronicling the daily activities at the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas.

The show features a constant stream of customers attempting to sell or pawn their possessions, and it quickly became the highest-rated show on the History Channel.

With its unique premise and engaging cast, Pawn Stars has secured its place in television history as one of the most successful reality shows.

But what has happened to the cast members since they first graced our screens? Let’s take a closer look at their journeys.

Rick Harrison: The Shrewd Negotiator

Rick Harrison, the face of Pawn Stars, dropped out of school in the 10th grade to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams, initially selling fake Gucci handbags.

His father nicknamed him “The Spotter” due to his keen eye for a good deal.

Rick is known for his sharp negotiating skills and often responds to sellers’ asking prices with laughter or wisecracks.

Over the years, Rick has faced challenges in the pawn business, particularly when it comes to evaluating the authenticity and value of items brought into the shop.

He often reminds sellers that just because something is old doesn’t mean it’s valuable.

For instance, he has been duped into purchasing counterfeit collectibles, including a supposed autograph from baseball legend Shoeless Joe Jackson.

Rick’s journey has not been without its emotional moments.

He once lost the chance to buy a 1963 Fender Stratocaster guitar owned by Jimi Hendrix because he couldn’t meet the seller’s asking price.

This incident highlights the difficulties he faces in balancing his passion for collectibles with the realities of business.

Corey “Big Hoss” Harrison: From Weight Loss to Business Success

Corey Harrison, affectionately known as “Big Hoss,” has been a prominent figure on the show since its inception.

At the beginning of the series, he struggled with his weight, tipping the scales at over 400 pounds.

After being diagnosed as pre-diabetic, Corey made significant lifestyle changes, including undergoing weight loss surgery.

He lost nearly 200 pounds, inspiring his friend Chumlee to embark on a similar journey.

Corey’s role at the pawn shop has evolved over the years.

Initially, he was seen as the heir apparent to his father’s business, but he faced challenges that led him to contemplate leaving the family business.

However, after Rick opened the books and offered him a larger stake in the business, Corey decided to stay and continue his work at the shop.

Austin “Chumlee” Russell: The Lovable Goofball

Austin Russell, better known as Chumlee, is one of the most beloved characters on Pawn Stars.

Initially introduced as a friend of Corey, Chumlee quickly became a fan favorite due to his goofy personality and humorous antics.

Despite being portrayed as somewhat incompetent, Chumlee has demonstrated surprising skills, such as fixing old toys and spotting counterfeit merchandise.

In 2016, Chumlee faced legal troubles when police found weapons and drugs while serving a warrant related to a sexual assault investigation.

Although he was not charged with sexual assault, he pled guilty to multiple felonies and received three years of probation.

Despite these setbacks, Chumlee has continued to work at the pawn shop and has even launched his own candy shop across the street from the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop.

The Old Man: A Legacy Remembered

Richard “The Old Man” Harrison was a beloved figure on Pawn Stars.

He served in the Navy for 20 years before opening the pawn shop with his son Rick.

The Old Man was known for his dry wit and straightforward demeanor, often serving as the voice of reason amidst the chaos of the shop.

Sadly, Richard Harrison passed away in June 2018 after battling Parkinson’s disease.

His death was a significant loss for the cast and fans alike.

Rick announced the news on Instagram, expressing his sorrow and highlighting the impact his father had on his life and career.

The Old Man’s legacy continues to influence the show, with many fans remembering him fondly for his contributions to the series.

Since the show began, the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop has experienced a surge in popularity, leading to increased foot traffic and the need for expansion.

The shop has grown from averaging under 100 customers per day to over 1,000 daily, prompting the Harrisons to expand their showroom significantly.

Despite the fame and success, Rick has expressed frustrations with the show, especially following his father’s passing.

He took a brief hiatus from the business but eventually returned, knowing that his father would have wanted him to continue working.

The show has since adapted, premiering its 16th season in 2019 with a new format.

The cast of Pawn Stars has navigated various personal and professional challenges since the show’s debut.

From Rick’s negotiating prowess to Corey’s transformative weight loss journey and Chumlee’s lovable antics, each member has left a unique mark on the series.

The Old Man’s legacy continues to resonate with fans, reminding us of the show’s roots.

As Pawn Stars continues to entertain audiences, the cast members remain grounded in their work and committed to the pawn shop’s legacy.

With their enduring appeal and relatable personalities, it’s clear that the story of Pawn Stars is far from over.

Fans can look forward to more adventures and insights from the cast as they navigate the ever-changing world of pawnbroking.