Born on March 22, 1965, in Lexington, North Carolina, Rick Harrison was destined to become a businessman. His father, Richard Benjamin Harrison, who would later be known to Pawn Stars fans as the “Old Man,” was a U.S. Navy veteran who instilled in Rick a strong work ethic from a young age. The Harrison family eventually moved to Las Vegas, where Rick’s journey toward fame and success would begin.
Rick Harrison’s early life was not without its challenges. He suffered from epileptic seizures as a child, which kept him homebound and away from school for long periods. During this time, Rick developed a passion for reading, particularly books on history and collectibles. This fascination would later become a crucial part of his success at the pawn shop.
By the age of 13, Rick had already started his first business venture, selling fake Gucci bags. His entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with his vast knowledge of collectibles, led him to join his father in opening the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in 1989. The rest, as they say, is history.
The Birth of Pawn Stars and Rick’s Rise to Fame
In 2009, Rick Harrison’s life took a dramatic turn when Pawn Stars debuted on the History Channel. The show, which follows the daily dealings of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, quickly became a massive hit, drawing millions of viewers each week. Rick’s ability to assess the value of items, negotiate deals, and educate both sellers and viewers on the historical significance of various artifacts made him a standout star of the show.
Pawn Stars is not just a show about buying and selling; it’s also a lesson in history, economics, and negotiation. Rick’s extensive knowledge, combined with his witty banter with customers and his family, has made him a fan favorite. The dynamic between Rick, his father (the Old Man), his son Corey, and employee Austin “Chumlee” Russell adds a layer of humor and family drama that keeps viewers engaged.
Rick’s fame has extended far beyond the show. He has appeared on talk shows, in commercials, and at events worldwide, solidifying his status as a pop culture icon. Despite his celebrity status, Rick remains dedicated to the pawn business, still working at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop regularly.
Rick Harrison’s Sons: A Look at His Family Life
While Rick Harrison’s public life is well-documented, his personal life is equally fascinating. Rick has three sons: Corey, Adam, and Jake. His relationship with his sons is one of the most defining aspects of his personal life, and each son has followed a different path in life.
Rick Harrison’s Son Adam
Adam Harrison is Rick’s oldest son, and unlike his brother Corey, Adam has chosen to stay out of the limelight. He prefers a private life, away from the cameras and the hustle and bustle of the pawn shop. Adam’s decision to lead a low-profile life has made him a bit of a mystery to Pawn Stars fans, but Rick has always spoken highly of Adam and respects his choice to stay out of the family business.
While not much is known about Adam’s professional pursuits, Rick has expressed pride in his son’s accomplishments and has mentioned in interviews that Adam has chosen a different path, one that does not involve reality television or the pawn industry.
Rick Harrison’s Son Corey
Corey Harrison, also known as “Big Hoss,” is perhaps the most famous of Rick’s sons, thanks to his prominent role on Pawn Stars. Corey began working at the pawn shop at a young age, learning the ropes from his father and grandfather. Over the years, Corey has become an integral part of the business, taking on a more significant role in the shop’s daily operations.
Corey’s journey on Pawn Stars has not been without its challenges. Viewers have seen him navigate personal struggles, including weight loss and his efforts to prove himself as a competent businessman. Rick has always been tough on Corey, pushing him to improve his business skills and make smarter decisions, but the father-son relationship remains strong.
Corey’s involvement in the pawn shop has solidified the Harrison family’s legacy in the business, and fans of the show have come to appreciate his straightforward, no-nonsense approach to dealing with customers.
Rick Harrison’s Son Jake
Jake Harrison is the youngest of Rick’s sons and, like his brother Adam, has chosen to stay out of the public eye. Little is known about Jake’s life, as he has kept his personal and professional endeavors private. However, Rick has spoken about how proud he is of all his sons, regardless of their involvement in the pawn business.
Jake’s decision to lead a private life reflects the Harrison family’s understanding that not everyone is suited for the limelight, and Rick has always supported his sons in pursuing their own paths, whether it involves the family business or not.
Rick Harrison’s Marriages and Spouse
Rick Harrison has been married three times. His current spouse, Deanna Burditt, whom he married in 2013, is a private individual who prefers to stay out of the public eye. Despite her absence from the spotlight, Deanna has been a crucial support system for Rick, helping him balance his personal and professional life.
Rick’s previous marriages resulted in the birth of his three sons. His first marriage, to Kim Harrison, ended in divorce but brought him his sons Corey and Adam. His second marriage, to Tracy Harrison, also ended in divorce. However, Rick has always maintained good relationships with his ex-wives, and family remains an essential part of his life.
Rick’s current marriage to Deanna has been a stabilizing force, and he often credits her with helping him find peace amid his busy schedule. Although Deanna stays out of the public eye, her presence in Rick’s life is significant.
The Truth Behind Rick Harrison Death Rumors
In recent years, rumors about Rick Harrison’s death have spread online, leading many fans to wonder, “Did Rick Harrison die?” The confusion seems to stem from the death of Rick’s father, Richard “Old Man” Harrison, who passed away in 2018. The loss of his father was a significant event in Rick’s life, and fans of Pawn Stars mourned alongside him.
However, Rick Harrison is very much alive. These death rumors are entirely unfounded, and Rick continues to manage the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop and star in new episodes of Pawn Stars. The show has evolved since the Old Man’s passing, with Rick taking on a more prominent role, but he has remained dedicated to honoring his father’s legacy.
Rick has openly discussed how much his father meant to him, both personally and professionally. The two worked side by side for decades, building the pawn shop from the ground up and turning it into the successful business it is today. The death of the Old Man was undoubtedly a profound loss for Rick, but it also served as motivation for him to continue growing the family legacy.
Rick Harrison’s Net Worth: How He Built His Fortune
Rick Harrison’s sharp business skills and media presence have made him a wealthy man. As of 2024, Rick Harrison’s net worth is estimated to be around $9 million. His income comes from various sources, including the pawn shop, royalties from Pawn Stars, and his investments in real estate.
The success of Pawn Stars has been a significant contributor to Rick’s wealth. The show, which has been on the air for over a decade, remains one of the History Channel’s most popular programs, drawing millions of viewers each season. In addition to his salary from the show, Rick earns money from merchandising and appearances at events and conventions.
Rick’s business acumen extends beyond the pawn shop. He has invested in several real estate ventures in Las Vegas, further increasing his wealth. His ability to spot a good deal, whether it’s in the pawn shop or in real estate, has been key to his financial success.
While Rick’s net worth is substantial, he remains humble about his success. He often credits his father and family for helping him build the business, and despite his wealth, Rick continues to work at the pawn shop regularly, interacting with customers and overseeing the business.
The Legacy of Rick Harrison and the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop
The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop has become a Las Vegas landmark, thanks to the success of Pawn Stars. What started as a family-run business has grown into a global brand, with fans from around the world visiting the shop in hopes of meeting Rick or other cast members. The shop itself has become a tourist destination, attracting visitors who want to see the place where history meets commerce.
Rick Harrison’s legacy is not just about his success in the pawn business; it’s also about the way he has educated millions of viewers on the value of historical artifacts. His ability to share his knowledge in a way that is both entertaining and informative has made him a beloved figure in the world of reality TV.
Despite the fame and fortune, Rick remains committed to the values his father instilled in him: hard work, honesty, and dedication to family. The success of the pawn shop is a testament to Rick’s ability to blend business with family values, creating a legacy that will last for generations to come.
Conclusion: Rick Harrison’s Continued Success
Rick Harrison has built an empire from humble beginnings, turning a small pawn shop into a global phenomenon. His journey from a young entrepreneur to a reality TV star and successful businessman is an inspiring story of hard work, dedication, and family.
Rick’s personal life, including his relationships with his sons and spouse, adds another layer to his public persona, showing that behind the sharp business acumen is a man who values family above all else. The death of his father, the Old Man, was a significant loss, but Rick has continued to honor his father’s legacy by maintaining the success of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop.
As of 2024, Rick Harrison remains a prominent figure in the world of pawn shops and reality television. His net worth continues to grow, his family remains a central part of his life, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
For fans of Pawn Stars, Rick Harrison represents more than just entertainment; he is a symbol of the American Dream—a man who turned his love for history and commerce into a multi-million-dollar business, all while keeping his family close by his side.
