One of the most popular and iconic reality TV series in recent memory is Pawn Stars. tracking the Harrison family and their cherished World Famous Gold & Silver pawn business in Las Vegas, Nevada. Let’s examine the most bizarre details from behind the scenes of the popular program, from Chumlee’s incarceration to the real reason Olivia Black was let go.Watching the funny shenanigans that take place in the notorious business has made viewers fall in love with the Harrisons and their staff over the years. However, behind the scenes, things appear to be very different.
Humble Beginnings
Remember that World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop began as a real-life family business back in 1989, even if we now recognize the Pawn Stars employees as reality TV stars and true celebrities. Because Richard “Old Man” Harrison first founded the store at that time, it operated as a family business that was open around-the-clock.Harrison, his son Rick, his grandson Corey, and family friend Austin “Chumlee” Russell were all ordinary men working in the industry before becoming well-known due to their TV show, despite the fact that they are now superstars in their own right.
Humble Beginnings
True Ambition
In actuality, Old Man Harrison always understood that his pawn shop was a unique place and that it had the potential to make them all famous, even though he initially opened it as just a family company. Harrison had been presenting the idea of the TV show to different networks on a regular basis for years prior to its premiere. They repeatedly refused until one network eventually agreed, but even then, it would take some time for them to really take off.
True Ambition
Business Minded
There’s more to Harrison’s resolve to pursue stardom as we learn the truth about his aspirations to launch his store on television. Not only did he believe it would make a humorous or well-liked show, but he also believed it would be a wise business move to raise exposure of his pawn store and potentially draw in additional clients. He told the Star-Telegram, “I figured that a show would mean free publicity and free publicity would mean more business.”
Business Minded
Never Give Up
Harrison knew the chances were against him, despite his determination to make his shop and the TV gold he knew it could generate a success. People continued to reject him the more he tried to market the show. He remarked, “Everyone told me that nobody wants to watch a show about four fat guys in a pawnshop.” They had no idea that this same item would one day captivate the entire world.
Never Give Up
First Look
Harrison never stopped up on his idea for a TV show centered on his pawn store, even though networks continued to reject it throughout the years. Although we are aware that Pawn Stars airs on History, it had two distinct homes at first! The store made its debut on Comedy Central’s Insomniac before making a brief appearance on HBO. You probably were unaware of its pre-History channel history.
First Look
Worldwide Fame
We all know that Pawn Stars is one of the most famous television programs in America right now, but did you realize that it’s also quite well-liked abroad?
As of right now, it has been broadcast in 150 countries and translated into an astounding 38 languages. Harrison also disclosed that the show’s popularity is so extensive that he was surrounded by yelling fans everywhere he went! “Kuala Lumpur, New Delhi, Buenos Aires, and the Philippines,” he stated. “Everywhere in the world, people know the show.”
Worldwide Fame
Legal Troubles
Pawn Stars’ ascent to the top hasn’t been easy, despite their enormous success. The three Harrisons and Chumlee were sued by their former manager, Wayne Jeffries, as they became more and more well-known. We’re not sure how it was ultimately resolved, but it wouldn’t be the end of their problems. Harrison told Fox News, “The more money you make, the more times people sue you.” “People will always go to sue you for something at some point.”
Legal Troubles
Wacky Tack
As you might expect, the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop receives a good deal of strange and bizarre goods from people all over the world. However, this specific item that was originally brought in may surprise even the most experienced observers. Harrison once disclosed that some Japanese sexual art had been imported! He told Heavy, “It’s all hand-painted.” Every physiological fluid is displayed on a scroll. Everything is greatly exaggerated. It’s a little unsettling, and when I got it, I realized that I couldn’t put it on display because my mother frequents the pawn store.
Wacky Tack
Use Your Head
And that’s not even the most bizarre item someone has ever brought into the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. Harrison recalled that a man once showed up with the most unexpected—and, let’s be honest, frightening—item: a collection of human skulls! The others weren’t persuaded by the man’s allegation that he had taken them from a dental school. Harrison’s refusal to purchase these eerie goods is perhaps not surprising.
Use Your Head
Hidden Treasures
Some of the items that have been pawned on the show are unbelievable. Did you believe you had already seen everything strange and amazing that had entered the store? From Slash’s old ID to a real full-size submarine, however, the most bizarre item ever brought in was most likely a didrachm, a rare coin from Ancient Greece that dates back to approximately 325 B.C.
Hidden Treasures
Spare Change
Despite being one of the most impressive, the Ancient Greek coin wasn’t the main reason the TV show made news. One of the most contentious and unexpected things was a woman’s collection of gold coins, which Harrison melted down to be used again in accordance with shop policy. However, they encountered difficulties when it was discovered that the coins were pilfered, and the store was sued for melting them without authorization. Whoops!
Spare Change
Damage Control
You may assume that the strange and bizarre pawn shop patrons and the objects they bring in are responsible for the majority of the business’s more memorable events, but the reality is that the stars of the show cause just as much turmoil as their patrons. Consider Chumlee, who once shattered an extremely costly $20,000 bass by mistake and chose to keep it a secret! He simply returned it to the box in silence and carried on with his day. Funny.
Damage Control
Stolen Goods
Sadly, one of the risks of working in the pawn industry is that people frequently attempt to bring in stolen items in order to obtain money for them and remove the evidence. Harrison also spent $40,000 on Pawn Stars for a pair of diamond earrings that turned out to be stolen. Harrison did not receive the $40,000 back, but the original owner received her jewelry returned and the thief received his retribution and some jail time. Harrison told NPR that’s just the way of the business.
Stolen Goods
Plan in Advance
The tale of the earrings illustrates how erratic and disorganized the pawn industry can be, but in reality, some of these transactions are the complete opposite. Because many of the transactions in the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop are actually completed far in advance of filming. You’re correct! In order to ensure that the appropriate goods arrive at the appropriate time for filming, the crew uses email to organize plans with prospective clients. Quite smooth.
Plan In Advance
Call in the Experts
Harrison frequently turns to his seemingly limitless list of acquaintances who are experts in almost every type of valuable object, and we are all certainly familiar with the experts on the numerous items brought into the pawn shop. However, did you know that the majority of the show’s experts are real specialists selected by the show’s producers rather than Harrison’s personal friends? Additionally, the specialists are there to advance their careers through the exposure rather than out of friendship. But perhaps afterward they all head out for a beer.
Call In The Experts
Running a Script
Like with any reality TV, a lot of people are curious about how much of Pawn Stars is genuinely pre-planned and entirely scripted, and how much is genuine and spontaneous. In actuality, a significant portion of this show is scripted; the prospective seller receives coaching on how to act and negotiate so they don’t appear overly anxious or uncomfortable. Instead of giving them precise instructions, they utilize their expertise to sway their words. Interesting!
Running A Script
Short Staffed
The Harrisons and Chumlee are the stars of the World Famous Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, but they don’t actually work there! How is this possible? They do, in fact, work there for the televised pawn dealings, but they are kept apart from the normal patrons.Travis Benton, who is essentially the actual store manager, actually serves and sorts out the regular customers. Who would have guessed?
Short Staffed
Saying Goodbye
Although Corey and Jake, two of Rick Harrison’s children, have made appearances on the show, Adam, his third child, never did, despite working at Gold & Silver Pawn. Sadly, we didn’t learn much about Adam until his death at the young age of 39 made news in January 2024. “My heart will always be with you! After his death, Rick Harrison posted on Instagram, “I love you, Adam.” Corey Harrison, Adam’s elder brother, commented, “I will always love you bubba,” on Instagram.
Saying Goodbye
The Naked Truth
Olivia Black, who became and continues to be immensely popular with fans, is another beloved star of the show. When she was dismissed for sharing some explicit photos on a modeling website, there was a lot of controversy, but the reality was quite different. Because did you know that, despite being kicked off the show, she never lost her job as a shop employee? Yes, she continued to work there; the production firm simply ceased using her during filming.
The Naked Truth
One of the Family
Although the pawn shop is regarded as the Harrison clan’s family business, Austin “Chumlee” Russell, who is merely an honorary member of the family but is not related, is without a doubt the most well-liked cast member. However, did you know that Chumlee had to compete with a number of other staff members to be the additional person on the show? Being his best friend, Corey was the one who ensured he got the job. The fans adore him, therefore the rest is history!
One Of The Family
Checkered Past
Despite being the most well-liked cast member, Chumlee’s life and past are not without their ups and downs and frequent controversies. Because when police raided his home in 2016 on suspicion of sex assault, they discovered at least eight unregistered guns and a variety of illegal narcotics. After agreeing to serve three years of probation and rehabilitation, he was eventually released on bond and avoided going to jail.
Checkered Past
Fight Night
Chumlee has also had other high-profile run-ins with the authorities. He got into a fight on Hollywood Boulevard even earlier in 2012, leaving his opponent severely injured on the ground. Chumlee was seen getting into a fight on multiple cameras, so he couldn’t even claim it wasn’t him. We don’t really know what actually transpired that tragic night, despite his insistence that it was in self-defense.
Fight Night
Violent Content
Unbelievably, Chumlee isn’t the only popular TV star who has occasionally into afoul of the law. Because Corey Harrison has also experienced a number of contentious situations, such as getting inebriated and unruly after drinking at a pub in Big Bear, California in 2011. He got into a heated altercation with another punter, the police were summoned, and he spent the night in a jail cell as a result.
Violent Content
The Show Must Go On
Although Harrison initially intended for the show to be shown on television in order to increase the store’s visibility and, thus, boost sales, the reality is that the show’s popularity has grown to the point that it now interferes with day-to-day operations. Can you envision? Travis Benton, the store manager, disclosed that so many individuals now visit the store as tourists that they obstruct actual customers. Additionally, the store must be closed to consumers during filming.
The Show Must Go On
Tourist Attraction
Not only that, but a large portion of the visitors are not frequent patrons due to the shop’s popularity. In fact, it is now the most visited non-gaming location in all of Las Vegas due to its enormous popularity as a tourist attraction! The sidewalks are crowded with tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of their TV favorites, despite the fact that they are rarely seen there. At times, queues of admirers stretch all the way down the street.
Tourist Attraction
Pawn on Tour
And it’s not just the hordes of admirers who come to the incredibly well-known and well-liked pawn store from all around. In addition, the celebrities themselves travel extensively each year as part of their national tour. You’re correct! Offering VIP experiences, a chance to meet and greet, and an intimate peek at the arrivals and departures of the ultra-famous family, Rick and Corey Harrison personally travel the nation.
Pawn On Tour
Wedding Woes
Rick Harrison focused on his personal life in addition to his lucrative TV show and pawn store. In 2013, he married his beloved Deanna Burditt. However, did you know that Burditt and Harrison were allegedly embroiled in a protracted legal battle with Burditt’s ex-husband, who was on trial for numerous sexual offenses? Although it wasn’t the most romantic and stress-free beginning for the new couple, he was ultimately found guilty and put to prison.
Wedding Woes
Corey Courting
Additionally, Rick Harrison wasn’t the only well-known cast member whose romantic and private lives made headlines in the media. In actuality, Corey Harrison wed his college sweetheart. Long before the perks of celebrity arrived, Harrison and Charlene tied the knot in 2000. Sadly, the demands of the spotlight damaged their marriage, leading to their divorce in 2015. Harrison later dated Roxy Gonzalez for a short time.
Corey Courting
Stunt Man
As everyone knows, Corey Harrison is a bit of a wild card and a bit of a daredevil. Did you know, though, that he is also renowned for performing a number of death-defying stunts—and not intentionally? He once leaped into the air after his fender broke off while he was riding at full speed and went into an extremely fast spiral! On another occasion, while riding his bike from Vegas to San Diego in the rain, he was completely destroyed. Although we enjoy a little adventure, we can’t handle these daring actions.
Stunt Man
Death Defying
It seems to be the norm in the entertainment industry for someone to fall prey to an internet death hoax after they achieve a certain degree of notoriety. Chumlee has experienced this more than once, first following an overdose in 2013 and again following a heart attack. “May we live long, Rich forever,” Chumlee wrote on Twitter to affirm that he was still alive.
Death Defying
End of An Era
Despite Chumlee’s assurances to his admirers that he was still alive, Richard “Old Man” Harrison, a member of the Pawn Stars group, tragically passed away in 2018 at the age of 77. Rick Harrison posted on Instagram, “The Old Man’ Harrison passed away this morning surrounded by those he loved.” “Our family, the Gold & Silver Pawn team, and his numerous admirers worldwide will all sincerely miss him.” I was lucky to have a really fantastic “Old Man” for a father, and he was my idol.”
End Of An Era
Paying Tribute
Tributes started coming in from all around the world as the world gradually came to terms with the tragic news that the Old Man had died. Not only that, but the Pawn Stars crew also aired an hour-long memorial program in his honor, in which they all talked about him and their best times spent with him over the years.In the episode, Rick remarked, “There are a lot of memories here.” “And my father is with the majority of them.”
Paying Tribute
Where There’s A Will
While everyone in the world was grieving the loss of Old Man, his family was actually facing some covert challenges as they worked out the post-death arrangements. In actuality, Harrison had excluded one of his sons from his will; while Rick and Joseph were included in his fortune, Chris was completely excluded. Although the family stated that this was previously discussed, we are unsure of the complete rationale for this unexpected choice.
Where There’s A Will
Not So Big Hoss
Corey Harrison is lovingly referred to as “Big Hoss” by many followers worldwide due to his extravagant nature and physical attributes. However, he underwent a significant weight loss program at his doctor’s recommendation, which is why he is no longer as large. Harrison lost more than 200 pounds following a total diet change and lap band surgery. Fantastic!
Not So Big Hoss
Panini Plug
Have you ever noticed how much food the Pawn Stars stars consume in every episode? You may not have given it much thought, but if you look attentively, you will discover that they are eating Subway sandwiches nearly all the time. This isn’t just because they enjoy a nice meatball sub; it’s also because Subway is one of their sponsors, which means they pay them a lot of money to guarantee that their “wiches” are frequently featured on the show.
Panini Plug
Online Shopping
Although you might assume that the Pawn Stars cast’s millions came from the program itself and the sponsorships and endorsements that went along with it, the merchandise is actually the primary source of their wealth! Yes, the majority of the Harrisons’ earnings now come from the official Pawn Stars merchandise, which fans are rushing to purchase. Mugs, shot glasses, t-shirts, and even an autographed Chumlee bobblehead are available for purchase!
Online Shopping
Celeb Pals
When a show begins to attract celebrity guest appearances, you know it has truly hit the big time. It’s often only used for sitcoms and similar programs, but Pawn Stars gained such much popularity that it has drawn more than its fair share of A-list viewers! Phil Collen, Joe Elliot, Jeremy McKinnon, Katie Couric, Vic Flick, Meredith Vieira, renowned crooner Bob Dylan, and even beloved comedian Steve Carrell have all visited the store!
Celeb Pals
Beauty Biz
You might not immediately think of the Harrisons as the next big thing in the beauty industry, despite the fact that they are unquestionably extremely successful TV personalities and astute businesspeople. However, did you know that Corey Harrison has actually demonstrated his abilities in that particular field? He is the co-owner of Beauty Bar, a club and beauty salon in Las Vegas. Since opening in 2014, it has seen great success.
Beauty Biz
Sweet Sensations
Furthermore, there are other show stars besides Corey Harrison who have embarked on unexpectedly unconnected activities. Because Chumlee opened a business of his own, and you know what it sells? Candy is the perfect solution! Chumelee told the Las Vegas Review-Journal that it made sense for him to enter the sweet shop industry because he loved candy. “Candy is fun, and my brother and I wanted to do something fun,” he remarked. You can’t dispute that!
Sweet Sensations
Military Man
Many individuals thought back on their best recollections of Richard “Old Man” Harrison after his passing. However, did you know that the majority of his followers and loved ones are unaware of much of his past? For instance, we bet you were unaware that Harrison spent more than 20 years serving in the Navy! There are rumors that he was sent to the military as a punishment for car theft, but whatever the initial motive, it obviously turned out well.
Military Man
Sitting Pretty
It’s evident throughout the entire series that the Harrison family are born hustlers who have no trouble navigating the complex pawn industry. In actuality, though, they’ve become so successful at it that they no longer even need to do it to make ends meet—they just do it for enjoyment. Harrison told Las Vegas Now, “I’m at a point in my life where, if I don’t like it, I don’t have to do it.”
Sitting Pretty
Old Man OG
Long after his death, Richard “Old Man” Harrison’s legacy endures because we all know and adore him. However, did you know that he gained his moniker long before he reached old age? He was known by this moniker for years prior to the show’s premiere, even though he was 68 at the time. When he was originally called Old Man, he was actually just 38 years old! Perhaps he was just one of those elderly people.
Old Man OG
Laid to Rest
Richard “Old Man” Harrison was given a fitting send-off with a lovely burial ceremony in his hometown of Las Vegas following his untimely death. Many people are aware that he received an emotional farewell from his family, but not everyone is aware that fans also had the chance to bid him farewell. Because the family allowed fans to visit and offer their condolences in person by opening the funeral home to the public for a few hours.
Laid To Rest
What’s In a Name
Unquestionably one of the most well-liked cast members of Pawn Stars is Chumlee, but have you ever pondered where he earned his peculiar moniker? In actuality, it originated from the iconic animated television series Tennessee Tuxedo and His Tales, which starred a penguin in the lead role. You guessed it—a stupid walrus named Chumley was the penguin’s sidekick! Chumlee is undoubtedly intelligent, but the name was inspired by this fact.
What’s In A Name
Alternate Identity
And it’s not just Chumley, who has earned a loving moniker from admirers all over the world. Because practically every member of the Pawn Stars cast goes by names other than their formal titles. After all, we are aware that Corey Harrison is Big Hoss, Austin Russell is Chumlee, and Richard Harrison is Old Man. However, did you know that they also attempted to refer to Richard Harrison as “The Appraiser” and Rick Harrison as “The Spotter”? These were more work-related monikers, but they were quickly abandoned because the fans didn’t like them.
Alternate Identity
In Plain Sight
Have you ever questioned why there aren’t more people pawning stuff in the shop when watching Pawn Stars? In general, the clients there are more frequently making appropriate sales. This is due to the fact that many people who are selling their own possessions for loans are likely in a somewhat desperate situation and don’t always want those times to be seen on television. Therefore, it is simpler to obtain permission to air the simpler sales.
In Plain Sight
Supply and Demand
As is well known, Harrison’s first plan to turn the pawn shop into a television program was partially motivated by his need to increase the establishment’s visibility and, thus, attract more patrons. Even so, he was unable to foresee the store’s eventual level of popularity and the extent to which it would need to be modified to satisfy the growing demand. The store actually had to add 15,000 square feet and recruit 30 new employees since so many more consumers started coming in!
Supply And Demand
Morrison Mirage
Even though they haven’t yet been able to visit the store in person, many Pawn Stars viewers and admirers feel as though they know it very well. And the enormous painting of Doors frontman Jim Morrison is among the most striking and unforgettable things on display at the renowned location. However, did you realize that renowned speed artist Denny Dent was the real creator? Additionally, it was first offered for $20,000, but the stars eventually determined that it was too crucial to the production to be sold.
Morrison Mirage
Crank Collect
We may assume that as the show has grown in popularity, more and more people have been contacting the World-Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. However, we’re betting you didn’t consider the number of people that call the store merely to have fun and hear their response rather than for genuine reasons! Because of this, they get a ton of hoax calls, the most common of which is a mocking request for a 1991 copy of the well-known video game “Battletoads.”
Crank Collect
Bachelor Bants
We are aware that Harrison worked tirelessly for years to turn his cherished pawn store into a television program, and his efforts undoubtedly paid off. However, did you know that the store’s last exposure, which led to the TV deal, was likewise a complete accident? Yes, Leftfield Pictures execs were inspired to present it to their colleagues at the History Channel after they happened upon the store while in town for a bachelor party.
Bachelor Bants
Side Kicks
Of course, all of the show’s big stars have become true celebrities, but occasionally the lesser-known supporting cast members also attract sizable fan bases. Antoine, the massive security officer; Peaches, the blonde employee who is always late; Scott, a part-time flea market enthusiast; Audie, a middle-aged Latino with a beard; and “Fat Back,” the on-site mechanic, are some of the show’s lesser but equally beloved characters. These men are all responsible for making Pawn Stars what it is today.
Side Kicks
Chumlee’s Health Issues
Chumlee was admitted to the hospital in Las Vegas in March 2020 because of acute gastrointestinal pain and respiratory difficulties during the global lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He made a joke about possibly having the coronavirus in the Instagram post announcing the news. Chumlee gave his admirers an update later that day, stating that he was feeling much better.
Chumlee’s Health Issues