How does a small-town pawn shop owner become a global television phenomenon and a meme icon? Richard "Rick" Harrison, the face of the History Channel's "Pawn Stars," is a testament to the power of reality television and entrepreneurial spirit.
Born on March 22, 1965, in Lexington, North Carolina, USA, Harrison's journey from a pawn shop in Las Vegas to a household name is an intriguing tale. He's not just a businessman; he's a producer, an actor, and a pop culture figure, all rolled into one.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Richard Kevin Harrison |
Date of Birth | March 22, 1965 |
Place of Birth | Lexington, North Carolina, USA |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | North American |
Known For | Owner of Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, Star of "Pawn Stars" |
Occupation | Businessman, Reality Television Personality, Producer, Actor |
Spouse | Deanna Burditt (married 2013), Amanda Palmer (married 2021) |
Children | Three sons |
Net Worth (2023) | $9 Million (estimated) |
Salary (per season of Pawn Stars) | $300,000 (estimated) |
Notable Works | "Pawn Stars" (2009-Present), "Blood, Sweat and Heels" (2014), "iCarly" (2007), Bob Dylan: "Like a Rolling Stone" (2013) |
Memoir | "License to Pawn: Deals, Steals, and My Life at the Gold & Silver" |
Meme Status | "Best I Can Do" meme |
Pawn Shop | Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, Las Vegas |
Father | Richard "The Old Man" Harrison |
Son | Corey "Big Hoss" Harrison |
Official Website | History Channel - Pawn Stars |
Harrison's career began in the pawn business during his teenage years, working alongside his father, Richard Harrison. This early exposure laid the foundation for the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, a family enterprise that would eventually catapult them to fame. The shop, located in Las Vegas, became the setting for "Pawn Stars," a show that offers a captivating glimpse into the world of buying, selling, and appraising unique items.
The show's premise a team of experts evaluating items brought in by customers, negotiating prices, and often providing historical context resonated with audiences. It wasn't just the items that drew viewers in; it was the personalities. Rick Harrison, with his pragmatic approach and signature phrases, quickly became the show's central figure.
One of Harrison's most recognizable contributions to popular culture is the "Best I Can Do" meme. This phrase, often uttered during negotiations when the offered price is less than the seller desires, has transcended the show and become a ubiquitous expression on the internet. It reflects a shrewd business acumen and a willingness to walk away from a deal.
Beyond the meme, Harrison's impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. "Pawn Stars" debuted in 2009 and became an instant hit. The show's success transformed Harrison into a beloved television personality, expanding his influence beyond the pawn shop walls. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of the American Dream, as embodied in the world of entrepreneurship and reality television.
However, the path to success hasn't always been smooth. Harrison has faced personal challenges, including the loss of his father, Richard "The Old Man" Harrison, in 2018, who played a significant role in the show. He has also been through the heartbreak of a son, Adam Harrison, who died in 2023 from an overdose.
Harrison's influence extends beyond the realm of reality television. He is an author, having penned a memoir, "License to Pawn: Deals, Steals, and My Life at the Gold & Silver," which chronicles his experiences in the pawn business. The book, released in 2011, reached the New York Times Best Seller list.
The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, which he co-owned with his father until his death in 2018, continues to operate, drawing visitors from around the world. Harrison's son, Corey "Big Hoss" Harrison, and other key employees, like Austin "Chumlee" Russell, have also become well-known figures through the show. They continue to play key roles in both the pawn shop business and the television series.
Harrison has built a significant fortune, with an estimated net worth of $9 million as of 2023. His salary from "Pawn Stars" is estimated to be $300,000 per season, reflecting his value to the franchise. He has also been involved in other projects, including producing and acting in other television shows.
While "Pawn Stars" has been on air for over two decades, Harrison remains a pivotal part of the show and a constant presence in the public eye. He has been married to Deanna Burditt since 2013, and they have two children. He has also been married previously.
The success of Rick Harrison and "Pawn Stars" showcases how a simple concept can become a global phenomenon. It also highlights the power of branding, relatable characters, and the ability to tap into a diverse audience's fascination with history, collectibles, and the art of the deal.
The show has been noted for its ability to make education entertaining. The "Pawn Stars" often discuss the history, provenance, and value of items brought into the shop. This approach appeals to a broad audience, including those who may not typically watch educational programming.
Controversies and rumors have, of course, swirled around him, as they do around most public figures. These are part of the price of fame, particularly in the world of reality television, and he has found a way to navigate it.
The evolution of the pawn shop into a reality television empire, and the subsequent creation of a cultural icon, showcases the ever-changing media landscape. Rick Harrison will be remembered as a shrewd businessman, a television star, and a meme legend. His story serves as an inspirational example of building a successful business in an unexpected field. His legacy is a reflection of adaptability and the unique capacity to find success in the American dream.
Harrison continues to work within the pawn business, and is the face of the gold and silver pawn shop, along with his son, Corey and the other partner.
In the memoir, Harrison and his father explain how they have sought to change the shop into a pawn shop, calling it a "logical advancement". In 1989, he and his father, Richard Benjamin Harrison opened the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, and co-owned the business until the death of his father.
Harrison is the owner of Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, the business being the setting of the history series Pawn Stars.


