5 Shocking Rumors About Pawn Stars’ Rick Harrison That Are Completely False (2025 Update)

The short answer is no: Rick Harrison, the co-owner of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop and the star of the hit show *Pawn Stars*, is definitively alive and well as of December 12, 2025. Despite persistent and often malicious online death hoaxes that have plagued the reality TV personality for years, Harrison is actively involved in his business, filming new episodes, and recently made headlines for his personal life. This article serves as the ultimate 2025 fact-check, cutting through the sensationalism to provide the most current and accurate information available about the beloved TV icon. The sheer volume of online speculation regarding Rick Harrison’s fate—from false death reports to absurd claims of imprisonment—stems largely from the tragic, real-life losses the Harrison family has endured, which have been conflated and twisted by clickbait creators. We will explore the truth behind these sensational headlines and confirm Rick Harrison’s current activities, career plans, and personal milestones that prove he is very much a part of the reality television landscape.

Rick Harrison: A Complete Biography and Profile

Richard Kevin Harrison, known universally as Rick Harrison, is an American businessman and reality television personality who has become a global icon of the appraisal and pawn industry. His no-nonsense approach and deep historical knowledge have made *Pawn Stars* a worldwide phenomenon.

• Full Name: Richard Kevin Harrison
• Date of Birth: March 22, 1965
• Age (as of 2025): 60 years old
• Place of Birth: Lexington, North Carolina, U.S.
• Known For: Co-owner of the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Nevada, and star of the History Channel series *Pawn Stars*.
• Family:
  • Father: Richard "The Old Man" Harrison (Deceased in 2018)
  • Mother: Joanne Harrison (Deceased)
  • Spouses: Tracy Harrison (divorced), Kim Harrison (divorced), DeAnna Burditt (divorced)
  • Children: Corey Harrison, Adam Harrison (Deceased), Jake Harrison
• Career Highlights:
  • Opened the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop with his father in 1989.
  • Co-created and starred in *Pawn Stars*, which premiered in 2009.
  • Authored the book *License to Pawn: Deals, Steals, and My Life at the Gold & Silver*.
• Current Status (2025): Alive, actively running the pawn shop, filming new *Pawn Stars* episodes, and recently engaged.

Debunking The "Did Rick Harrison Die" Hoax (2025 Fact Check)

The question, "Did Rick Harrison die?" is one of the most frequently searched queries related to the *Pawn Stars* cast. This persistent rumor is a classic example of a celebrity death hoax that gains traction through social media and sensationalized YouTube videos.

The Source of the False Death Rumors

The most recent surge in the "Rick Harrison dead" claims occurred in early 2025, driven by misleading video titles and thumbnails on YouTube and other platforms. These videos often use vague language or intentionally confusing edits to suggest a tragedy has occurred, profiting from the curiosity of fans. In reality, these are simply clickbait tactics designed to generate views and ad revenue. The confusion is often compounded by the fact that the Harrison family has, sadly, experienced real loss. This is the critical piece of information that clickbait artists exploit.

The Tragic Realities That Fuel the Hoax

Two major, well-documented family tragedies are frequently—and inappropriately—used to fuel the false rumors about Rick Harrison himself:

1. The Death of Richard "The Old Man" Harrison

Rick’s father, Richard Benjamin Harrison, affectionately known as "The Old Man" on the show, passed away in June 2018 at the age of 77. He had retired from the pawn shop in 2017 due to his health. This genuine loss is constantly—and disrespectfully—resurfaced in online content to imply Rick's death.

2. The Death of Adam Harrison

In January 2024, Rick Harrison’s son, Adam Harrison, tragically passed away at the age of 39 from a drug overdose. This heartbreaking event led to a massive outpouring of grief and, unfortunately, a new wave of death hoaxes that incorrectly targeted Rick Harrison himself. The grief and tragedy surrounding Adam's death was a tough period for the family, which was then exploited by rumor-mongers.

3. The Passing of Joanne Harrison

Rick’s mother, Joanne Harrison, also passed away in Las Vegas. While the exact date is not specified in the recent search results, her death is another real event that contributes to the overall narrative of loss that rumor creators leverage.

Rick Harrison's Current Status and Future Plans in 2025

Far from being deceased or imprisoned (another false rumor that circulated in early 2025), Rick Harrison is enjoying a busy and productive year. His current activities confirm his ongoing presence in the public eye and his commitment to the *Pawn Stars* legacy.

New *Pawn Stars* Episodes and Filming Schedule

The *Pawn Stars* phenomenon is not over. The show is confirmed to be returning with new episodes, with filming expected to take place in late 2025 and into 2026, with a tentative air date in early 2027. Rick Harrison and his co-star, Austin “Chumlee” Russell, are set to return, proving that the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop continues to be a hub of historical deals and unique treasures.

Rick’s New Personal Milestone: Engagement

In a major personal update that confirms his vitality, Rick Harrison announced his engagement to his girlfriend in March 2025. The proposal made headlines because he presented her with a prized possession—not a typical engagement ring—highlighting his unique personality and love for rare items. This news definitively proves his current, active status.

The "Pawn After Dark" Podcast

For fans who want more than just the TV show, Rick Harrison and Chumlee have launched a new venture: the "Pawn After Dark" podcast. This platform allows the duo to discuss their lives, the pawn shop, and various historical oddities in a more casual, long-form setting. This is a clear indicator of Rick’s continued media presence and entrepreneurial spirit.

Public Commentary on Current Events

Rick Harrison remains a public figure who comments on business and local issues. In 2025, he has been vocal about the economic situation in Las Vegas, including the decline in tourism and rising casino prices. His willingness to engage in public discourse on economic matters showcases his role as a prominent Las Vegas businessman, not a deceased or incarcerated celebrity. In conclusion, all evidence points to the fact that Rick Harrison is alive, well, and thriving in 2025. The rumors of his death are baseless, sensationalist hoaxes that disrespectfully capitalize on the very real tragedies the Harrison family has faced. Fans can look forward to seeing Rick on new episodes of *Pawn Stars* and hearing his voice on his new podcast, continuing his legacy as one of reality television's most enduring figures.