The Death of Richard Harrison and Its Impact on Chumlee

Introduction: The Influence of a Legendary Figure in the Antique Business

Richard Harrison, famously known as “The Old Man,” was a beloved and iconic figure on the popular reality show Pawn Stars. With his authoritative personality, sharp wit, and extensive knowledge of antiques, he became not only a cornerstone of Gold & Silver Pawn Shop but also a star in the world of reality television.

Alongside him was Austin “Chumlee” Russell, one of the store’s employees and a comedic presence on the show. Initially hired as a regular worker, Chumlee quickly became one of the most beloved figures on Pawn Stars. His relationship with Richard Harrison extended beyond a professional bond—he considered Richard as a grandfatherly figure and held immense respect for him.

When Richard Harrison passed away in 2018, not only did his family grieve, but millions of fans and colleagues, including Chumlee, were deeply affected. This article explores the impact of Richard Harrison’s death on Chumlee’s personal and professional life, the reactions from other Pawn Stars members, and the enduring legacy of this iconic personality.

Richard Harrison’s death

A Brief Biography of Richard Harrison

Richard Benjamin Harrison Jr. was born on March 4, 1941, in Danville, Virginia. His early years were shaped by a working-class background and financial struggles. To escape economic hardship, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a teenager and served for over 20 years. After retiring from the military, he moved to Las Vegas with his wife, Joanne Harrison.

In the 1980s, Richard and his son, Rick Harrison, opened Gold & Silver Coin Shop, initially specializing in trading gold and silver coins. Eventually, in 1989, the business evolved into Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, expanding into the broader field of antiques and pawn trading.

Richard’s no-nonsense attitude, meticulous attention to detail, and business acumen played a pivotal role in the shop’s success. These traits also made him a perfect fit for Pawn Stars when the show premiered on History Channel in 2009, where he became one of the main attractions.

The Passing of Richard Harrison: The End of an Era

On June 25, 2018, Richard Harrison passed away at the age of 77 after a prolonged battle with Parkinson’s disease. The news of his death quickly spread across media outlets, and fans of Pawn Stars mourned the loss of the unforgettable and formidable patriarch.

His son, Rick Harrison, shared an emotional post on Instagram:

“Today, I lost a friend, a father, a teacher, and so much more. The Old Man lost his long battle with Parkinson’s this morning. Love you, Dad. See you on the other side.”

For the Harrison family, the loss was not just personal but also professional, as Richard was a crucial part of the store and the show’s success.

The Impact of Richard Harrison’s Death on Chumlee

Richard Harrison’s passing deeply affected Chumlee. Having worked closely with Richard for years, Chumlee felt his absence profoundly. Following his death, Chumlee posted a heartfelt tribute on social media:

“I can’t believe he’s gone. He was such a big part of my life and always treated me like family. I will miss him greatly and carry the lessons he taught me forever.”

The loss of Richard was not only an emotional setback for Chumlee but also a turning point in his career. In previous years, Chumlee had encountered personal challenges, including legal troubles, but after this tragedy, he seemed to focus more on professional growth. He remains a key cast member of Pawn Stars and has expanded his business ventures, including launching his own memorabilia shop.

Reactions from Other Cast Members and Fans

The passing of Richard Harrison prompted emotional responses from other Pawn Stars members. Rick Harrison, Corey Harrison (Richard’s grandson), and other store employees honored his memory both privately and publicly.

Fans also flooded social media with messages of condolences, sharing their favorite moments of Richard from the show and reminiscing about his wise yet humorous personality.

Richard Harrison’s Legacy and the Future of Pawn Stars

Even after Richard’s passing, Pawn Stars continues to thrive, though his absence is keenly felt. His distinctive presence and expertise were integral to the show’s appeal. However, the remaining cast members have worked to uphold the standards and traditions he established.

While Richard may no longer be physically present, his influence remains evident in the store’s operations and the show’s dynamic. He gave Gold & Silver Pawn Shop a unique identity and set a benchmark in the antique business that Rick, Corey, and the rest of the team continue to follow.

Richard Harrison’s death

Conclusion: A Lasting Impact

Richard Harrison’s death marked a significant loss for reality television, the pawn industry, and particularly the Pawn Stars family. His relationship with Chumlee was a highlight of the show, and his passing left a noticeable void in both the series and in Chumlee’s life.

Nevertheless, his legacy endures through Pawn Stars, the shop, and the influence he had on Chumlee and others. The show continues, keeping alive the memory of “The Old Man” for fans around the world.