Adam Harrison, son of Pawn Stars creator and lead Rick Harrison, has died of an overdose. He was 39.
Pawn Stars is a popular reality TV show that has reached near-cult status. Its popularity has made it one of the must-see places in Sin City and the long line of tourists who wait to get in, just hoping to get a glimpse of the stars, attests to that. Adam was not one of the cast though reportedly he worked at the Gold & Silver Pawn shop prior to the series’ 2009 premiere..
Pawn Stars follows the daily activities of a family-owned pawn shop in Las Vegas, Nevada. The show features three generations of the Harrison family: Rick, his father Richard (also known as “The Old Man”), his son Corey (also known as “Big Hoss”), and Corey’s childhood friend Austin (also known as “Chumlee”).
The show features the interactions between the staff and the customers, who bring in various items to sell or pawn, ranging from historical artifacts to quirky collectibles. The staff also consults with experts in different fields to appraise the items and determine their authenticity and value. The show has been running since 2009 and has spawned several spin-offs and international versions.
Harrison’s representative, Laura Herlovich, confirmed the cause of death and that he was discovered Friday with the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
TMZ first reported the news that the Harrison family learned of Adam’s death on Friday. The circumstances of Adam’s death are unknown, including when and where he overdosed. The Las Vegas Metro Police Department confirmed with TMZ that an investigation into his death has been opened.
“Our family is extremely saddened by the death of Adam. We ask for privacy as we grieve his loss,” Herlovich shared with the Las Vegas Review-Journal on behalf of the Harrison family.
Adam was the second child of Rick Harrison and his ex-wife, Kim. He is the younger brother of Corey Harrison.