The Colorful World of Rick Harrison: A Pawn Star's Journey
Delve into the fascinating life and adventures of Rick Harrison, also known as 'The Spotter,' from the renowned reality TV show Pawn Stars.
The Legacy of Gold & Silver Pawn Shop
Richard Kevin Harrison, famously known as Rick Harrison, has been at the center of attention for his captivating journey in the pawn business. The Harrison family business, Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, located at 713 S. Las Vegas Blvd, became the focal point of The History Channel's highest-rated show, Pawn Stars, in July 2009. This reality TV show provided viewers with an exclusive glimpse into the vibrant and dynamic world of the pawn business, showcasing three generations of the Harrison family jointly running the establishment. Grandfather Richard, son Rick, and grandson Corey played pivotal roles in assessing the value of a myriad of items that made their way in and out of the shop. Their experiences were filled with camaraderie and occasional clashes, making for compelling television.
Rick Harrison Pawn Stars Smiling wearing black pawn stars shirt
After 28 years of dedicated service, Rick, also known as 'The Spotter,' honed his expertise in identifying counterfeit and stolen goods. Born in Lexington, North Carolina, in 1965 to a U.S. Army veteran, Rick's journey led him to Las Vegas in 1981, where he initially worked in his father's coin shop. This venture eventually evolved into a pawn shop, marking the inception of the iconic Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. Despite his transition from a full-time employee at the pawn shop, Rick's legacy continues to thrive through his appearances in the widely acclaimed Pawn Stars Do America season 2. The show chronicles Rick, Corey, and Austin 'Chumlee' Russel as they embark on a captivating journey across eight different cities in search of historical treasures.
Rick-Harrison of Pawn-Stars
Instagram article posted by historiclocustgrove
Legal Disputes and Viral Pranks
In a surprising turn of events, Rick found himself embroiled in a legal battle with his mother, Joanne Harrison. The dispute, which surfaced in February 2022, revolved around family assets and the ownership of the renowned Las Vegas business featured on the long-running reality TV show. Joanne alleged that Rick coerced her into signing over her interest in the business shortly after she emerged from a coma. Furthermore, she claimed that Rick ceased providing her with financial support from Richard's share of the business. The conflict escalated to the extent that Joanne, 81, sought a restraining order against her reality TV star son, aiming to prevent the sale of the family's assets. According to reports from Daily Mail, Joanne asserted that Rick had ceased the regular monthly payments of $25,000 in 2020, adding a layer of complexity to the already contentious situation.
The saga continued as Rick became the subject of a viral prank that echoed his iconic line from Pawn Stars. In July 2023, airport security in El Salvador orchestrated an elaborate prank on Rick upon his arrival. As Rick presented his passport to an officer, he was met with the playful remark, 'I don't know Rick, it looks fake.' The light-hearted exchange unfolded as an officer humorously suggested that an expert needed to verify the authenticity of Rick's passport. Ultimately, the prank concluded with Rick being granted entry and a 180-day stay in the country, adding a lighthearted twist to his eventful journey.
Honors and Acknowledgments
Amidst the highs and lows, Rick Harrison's journey took an illustrious turn when he was bestowed with the prestigious title of Kentucky Colonel in November 2023. The historic Locust Grove, a renowned 18th-century farm site and National Historic Landmark situated in Louisville, Kentucky, shared a defining moment in Rick's life. The institution proudly presented a photo of Rick holding his Kentucky Colonel certificate, commemorating his induction into the esteemed order. This remarkable achievement unfolded during an episode of the Pawn Stars spin-off, partially filmed at Locust Grove, underscoring Rick's enduring impact and recognition. The Kentucky Colonel status, the highest honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky, cemented Rick's legacy in a new light, adding another remarkable chapter to his illustrious journey.
