As of 2026, Corey Harrison and Austin "Chumlee" Russell remain two of the most recognizable figures in reality television history, largely due to the enduring legacy of the History Channel’s hit series Pawn Stars. Corey Harrison, known as "Big Hoss," and his childhood friend Chumlee have transitioned from local pawn shop employees to international celebrities with diversified business portfolios. Collectively, they have navigated the complexities of sudden fame, significant weight loss journeys, and high-profile marriages and divorces, all while maintaining their roles at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas.
The Professional Evolution of Corey "Big Hoss" Harrison
Richard Corey Harrison was born into the pawn business on April 27, 1983. As the son of Rick Harrison and the grandson of Richard "The Old Man" Harrison, his career trajectory was seemingly predetermined. Corey began working at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop at the age of nine, initially performing menial tasks such as polishing jewelry and cleaning the shop. Over the decades, he rose through the ranks to become the shop’s manager and eventually a partial owner.
Career Milestones and Ownership
One of the most significant moments in Corey’s career, documented in the early seasons of Pawn Stars, was his push for equity in the family business. He famously threatened to leave the shop unless he was granted a partnership. His father, Rick Harrison, eventually granted him a 5% stake in the business. This ownership stake, combined with his salary from the reality series and appearances, forms the backbone of his financial profile.
By 2026, Corey has expanded his interests beyond the pawn shop. He has ventured into the hospitality and beauty industries, notably owning a beauty bar and participating in various Las Vegas-based real estate investments. His role in the shop has shifted from day-to-day floor management to higher-level acquisitions and brand representation.
Corey Harrison’s Net Worth and Financial Status
Corey Harrison’s estimated net worth in 2026 stands at approximately $4 million to $5 million. While some estimates vary based on market fluctuations in his real estate holdings, his wealth is derived from three primary streams:
- Pawn Stars Salary: At the height of the show's popularity, the lead cast members reportedly earned upwards of $30,000 per episode.
- Shop Profits: As a 5% owner of the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, he receives a share of the annual profits generated by retail sales and pawn interest.
- Personal Ventures: Income from his beauty bar and various endorsement deals.
The Personal Life and Marriages of Corey Harrison
Corey’s personal life has been a subject of public interest, particularly his two marriages, both of which ended in divorce.
First Marriage: Charlene Harrison
Corey married his high school sweetheart, Charlene, in 2004. Their marriage predated the massive fame brought on by Pawn Stars. As the show became a global phenomenon, the pressures of reality TV and Corey's demanding work schedule reportedly took a toll on the relationship. The couple filed for divorce in 2015. Unlike many celebrity splits, their divorce was handled privately, with very little information released regarding the settlement.
Second Marriage: Korina "Kiki" Harrison
In July 2017, Corey married Korina "Kiki" Harrison in a private ceremony. Kiki often appeared on Corey's social media, and the couple seemed to be building a life together in Las Vegas. However, in August 2018, just over a year after their wedding, the couple filed for a joint petition for divorce. They cited their "competing work schedules" as the primary reason for the split, stating that they remained good friends despite the end of their legal union.
The Rise of Austin "Chumlee" Russell
Austin Russell, better known by his nickname "Chumlee," was born on September 8, 1982. Though not a member of the Harrison family by blood, he has been treated as one of their own since he began working at the shop at age 21. Chumlee’s role on Pawn Stars was initially that of the "village idiot" or comic relief, but he quickly became a fan favorite, leading to significant commercial success.
Career Diversification and Entrepreneurship
Chumlee leveraged his television fame more aggressively than perhaps any other cast member. Recognizing the power of his personal brand, he launched a successful merchandise line and eventually opened Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd in 2017. The candy shop, located in the Plaza Terrace across from the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, has become a tourist destination in its own right.
Despite facing legal challenges in 2016 related to weapon and drug charges—which resulted in three years of probation—Chumlee managed to rehabilitate his public image. By 2026, he is viewed as a savvy entrepreneur who successfully navigated the pitfalls of reality TV stardom.
Chumlee’s Net Worth in 2026
Austin "Chumlee" Russell’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $5 million. His financial portfolio is arguably more diverse than Corey’s, consisting of:
- Television Earnings: Consistent salary from over 15 seasons of Pawn Stars.
- Retail Revenue: High-margin sales from his candy business and merchandise.
- Personal Appearances: Chumlee remains a high-demand guest for club appearances and trade shows, often commanding significant appearance fees.
- Sneaker and Art Collection: Chumlee is a well-known collector of high-end sneakers and urban art, assets that have appreciated in value over the years.
Austin "Chumlee" Russell’s Marriage and Relationships
Chumlee’s relationship history has been more stable in the public eye than Corey’s, though not without its own complexities.
Long-term Relationship with Tanya Hyjazi
For several years, Chumlee was in a relationship with Tanya Hyjazi, a chef at a major Las Vegas casino. Tanya was frequently credited with helping Chumlee begin his initial weight loss journey and managing the stress of his legal troubles in 2016. However, the couple eventually parted ways.
Marriage to Olivia Rademann
In 2019, Chumlee married Olivia Rademann. The couple had a celebrated wedding in Hawaii, attended by friends and family, including the Harrison clan. Olivia, who was a student at the time of their engagement, was often seen accompanying Chumlee to various red-carpet events. However, following the wedding, the couple became increasingly private. Reports of a separation surfaced in late 2020 and 2021 when the couple stopped appearing on each other’s social media feeds and Olivia reportedly moved to South Carolina. As of 2026, Chumlee maintains a very private personal life, rarely commenting on his current marital status.
Comparison: Corey Harrison vs. Austin "Chumlee" Russell
To better understand the differences and similarities between these two icons, the following table compares their career and personal milestones as of 2026.
| Feature | Corey "Big Hoss" Harrison | Austin "Chumlee" Russell |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Shop Manager / Part-Owner | Employee / Brand Ambassador |
| Estimated Net Worth | $4 Million - $5 Million | $5 Million |
| Business Ventures | Beauty Bar, Real Estate | Chumlee's Candy on the Blvd, Merchandise |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Charlene, Korina) | Married (Olivia Rademann) / Status Private |
| Weight Loss | ~190 lbs (Lap-band surgery) | ~160 lbs (Gastric sleeve surgery) |
| Key Assets | Ownership in Gold & Silver Pawn | Massive Sneaker and Art Collection |
| Public Image | The Serious Businessman | The Relatable Everyman |
Health and Transformation: A Shared Journey
One of the most remarkable aspects of both Corey and Chumlee’s lives since the start of Pawn Stars has been their physical transformations. Both men struggled with obesity during the early seasons of the show, and both made the decision to undergo bariatric surgery to improve their health.
Corey Harrison underwent lap-band surgery in 2010 after being told he was pre-diabetic. He lost nearly 200 pounds, a change that significantly altered his appearance on the show. Chumlee followed a similar path years later, undergoing gastric sleeve surgery and losing over 150 pounds. In 2026, both men continue to advocate for healthy lifestyle changes, frequently sharing their fitness routines and dietary habits with fans. This shared experience solidified their bond and added a layer of relatability to their public personas, as viewers watched them literally change before their eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Corey Harrison's current role at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop?
As of 2026, Corey Harrison serves as a manager and partner at the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. While he is less involved in the minute-by-minute floor transactions than in earlier years, he oversees large-scale acquisitions and continues to be a lead cast member on Pawn Stars.
Is Chumlee still working at the pawn shop?
Yes, Chumlee remains an integral part of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop team. While he focuses heavily on his own business, Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd, he still appears regularly at the pawn shop for filming and fan interactions.
How did Corey Harrison lose so much weight?
Corey Harrison lost approximately 190 pounds following lap-band surgery in 2010. He combined the procedure with a strict diet and regular exercise regimen to maintain his health.
Are Corey Harrison and Chumlee still friends?
Corey and Chumlee have been best friends since childhood and remain extremely close. Their relationship has survived the pressures of fame, business disputes, and personal hardships, and they continue to support each other’s independent business ventures.
Did Chumlee go to jail?
In 2016, Austin "Chumlee" Russell was arrested following a raid on his home. He reached a plea deal regarding weapon and drug charges, which allowed him to avoid jail time in exchange for three years of probation and counseling. He successfully completed his probation in 2019.
Practical Next Steps for Fans and Collectors
For those interested in following the careers of Corey Harrison and Chumlee more closely, or for those looking to engage with their businesses, the following actions are recommended:
- Visit the Shop: The World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas remains open to the public. While the stars are not always on the floor due to filming schedules, the shop houses a rotating gallery of unique historical items.
- Support Local Ventures: When in Las Vegas, fans often visit Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd, which is located in the same neighborhood as the pawn shop.
- Verify Collectibles: If you are looking to purchase items authenticated by the cast, ensure you are buying directly from the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop’s official website or their verified eBay presence to avoid counterfeit memorabilia.
- Follow Verified Social Media: To stay updated on their 2026 activities, follow their official, verified social media profiles, as they frequently post about new acquisitions and personal projects.
