For over a decade, millions of viewers have been invited inside the bustling world of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop through the hit reality show Pawn Stars. We’ve watched with fascination as the Harrison family—the cantankerous but wise patriarch Richard “The Old Man,” his shrewd son Rick, his affable grandson Corey “Big Hoss,” and Corey’s lovable sidekick Austin “Chumlee” Russell—navigate a daily parade of historical artifacts, quirky collectibles, and outright fakes. Their on-screen banter and sharp negotiating skills have made them household names, turning their Las Vegas shop into a global tourist destination. But behind the laughter, the incredible finds, and the thrill of the deal, a shadow of profound and repeated tragedy has fallen over the family and the show’s extended cast.

While the program showcases the triumphs of their business, it rarely delves into the personal heartbreaks they’ve endured. From the monumental loss of the show’s foundational pillar to the recent, gut-wrenching death of Rick’s son, the Harrison family has been forced to navigate a landscape of grief far heavier than any antique they’ve ever appraised. This is the story of the beloved members and associates of the Pawn Stars universe who have tragically passed away, leaving an indelible void both on and off the screen.

The End of an Era: Richard “The Old Man” Harrison

No figure is more synonymous with the soul of Pawn Stars than Richard Harrison, universally known as “The Old Man.” With his ever-present fedora, sharp black suit, and a perpetually unimpressed expression, he was the stoic, no-nonsense anchor of the show. His gruff one-liners and unwavering business principles provided the perfect counterbalance to the more impulsive antics of the younger generation. He wasn’t just a character; he was the bedrock upon which the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop was built.

A 20-year Navy veteran, Richard brought a level of discipline and old-school wisdom to the business he co-founded with his son Rick in 1989. Viewers came to adore his seemingly grumpy demeanor, knowing that beneath it lay a deep love for his family and a sharp, insightful mind. His presence was a constant, a comforting fixture in a world of uncertainty. Whether he was sleeping in his chair or delivering a cutting remark about an employee’s work ethic, “The Old Man” was the heart of the operation.

In June 2018, the Pawn Stars world was shaken when Rick announced that his father had passed away at the age of 77 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. The news sent a wave of sadness through the show’s global fanbase. In a heartfelt tribute, Rick remembered his father as his hero, a man who lived a full life and was a source of “tremendous knowledge.” The show that followed his passing was a somber, respectful tribute, showcasing his most memorable moments and emphasizing the immeasurable impact he had on everyone he met. His death marked more than just the loss of a cast member; it was the end of an era. The dynamic of the show was forever changed, and the empty chair in the back office became a poignant symbol of the patriarch who started it all.

A Father’s Worst Nightmare: The Tragic Death of Adam Harrison

While fans were still mourning the loss of the family patriarch, a far more private and devastating tragedy struck the Harrisons in January 2024. Rick Harrison’s 39-year-old son, Adam, passed away from an accidental fentanyl overdose. Unlike his older brother Corey, Adam had chosen a life away from the television cameras. He reportedly worked at the pawn shop at one point before pursuing his own path as a plumber, valuing his privacy over the fame that had enveloped his family.

Though he was not a face on the show, his death represented a deeply personal and gut-wrenching loss for Rick. The news broke with a short, anguished statement from the grieving father on social media: “You will always be in my heart! I love you Adam.” The tragedy cast a harsh light on the national opioid crisis, bringing it to the doorstep of a family beloved by millions.

Rick later spoke out about the tragedy, channeling his immense pain into a public warning about the dangers of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that has claimed countless lives across the country. He expressed his frustration and anger at the crisis not being taken more seriously, a sentiment that resonated with thousands of families who have experienced similar losses. Adam’s death was a stark reminder that tragedy does not discriminate; it can shatter the lives of anyone, regardless of their public profile. For Rick Harrison, the shrewd negotiator and history buff, this was one loss from which there could be no recovery, a wound that would never fully heal.

The Toy Expert with a Giant Heart: Johnny Jimenez Jr.

Part of the enduring magic of Pawn Stars is its colorful cast of recurring experts, specialists called in to verify the authenticity and value of unique items. Among the most memorable was Johnny Jimenez Jr., the go-to guy for vintage toys and collectibles. With his infectious enthusiasm and encyclopedic knowledge, Johnny could light up the screen, whether he was appraising a rare comic book, a classic G.I. Joe action figure, or a nostalgic lunchbox.

His passion was palpable, and his segments were a joy to watch. He wasn’t just an appraiser; he was a storyteller who could connect the history of a toy to the childhood memories of millions. He ran his own shop, Toy Shack, in Las Vegas, and his appearances on the show made him a celebrity in the collectibles world.

In a quiet and shocking turn of events, Johnny Jimenez Jr. passed away in March 2023. While the cause of death was not widely publicized, his loss was felt deeply within the Pawn Stars community and the broader world of collecting. He left behind a legacy of passion and expertise, a reminder of the joy that cherished objects from the past can bring. His absence on the show created a void, as fans missed his bright smile and the genuine excitement he brought to every appraisal.

The Rock and Roll Appraiser: Jesse Amoroso

Another expert who made a lasting impression was Jesse Amoroso, the owner of Cowtown Guitars and the show’s resident authority on guitars and other stringed instruments. With his rock-and-roll aesthetic and deep expertise, Jesse brought a cool and credible edge to the show. He could tell a vintage Fender from a clever forgery with a single glance and could wax poetic about the history of a Gibson Les Paul.

Jesse was more than just a TV personality; he was a respected figure in the Las Vegas music scene. His shop was a haven for musicians and collectors alike. His appearances on Pawn Stars helped solidify the show’s credibility when it came to high-end musical instruments.

Tragically, Jesse Amoroso passed away in March 2022 at the age of 44. His untimely death sent shockwaves through his community. He was remembered as a kind soul, a brilliant musician, and a passionate entrepreneur. For Pawn Stars, losing an expert of his caliber was another significant blow, diminishing the rich tapestry of knowledge the show relies upon.

The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop continues to operate, and Pawn Stars remains on the air, a testament to the family’s resilience. But these losses have undeniably reshaped their world. They are a poignant reminder that behind every fascinating object that comes through the shop’s doors lies a human story—and the Harrisons’ own story has become one of incredible success intertwined with profound sorrow. The show goes on, but for the family and the fans who have followed their journey, the ghosts of those they’ve lost will forever linger in the aisles of the world’s most famous pawn shop.