Austin Lee Russell, popularly known as Chumlee, has become a household name through his role on the History Channel’s reality television series “Pawn Stars.” Beyond his television persona, Chumlee has ventured into various business endeavors, contributing to his financial success. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
Early Life and Education
- Birth and Background: Born on September 8, 1982, in Henderson, Nevada, Chumlee earned his nickname at age 12 due to his resemblance to the walrus character “Chumley” from the animated series “Tennessee Tuxedo.”
- Education: Details about Chumlee’s formal education remain private, but his early interests included skateboarding, video games, and collecting sneakers.
Career Beginnings at Gold & Silver Pawn Shop
- Introduction to the Pawn Industry: Chumlee began working at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop at 21, thanks to his childhood friendship with Corey Harrison, whose family owns the shop.
- Role in “Pawn Stars”: Premiering in 2009, “Pawn Stars” showcases the daily operations of the pawn shop, with Chumlee often providing comic relief. Despite this, he has demonstrated expertise in areas like pinball machines and vintage toys.
Business Ventures
- Merchandise Company: Capitalizing on his “Pawn Stars” fame, Chumlee founded a company selling novelty items and T-shirts of his design. In 2010, he sold half of his stake to Rick Harrison for $155,000 to streamline operations.
- Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard: In 2017, he expanded his entrepreneurial pursuits by opening a candy store across the street from the pawn shop in Las Vegas.
Personal Life
- Interests and Hobbies: Chumlee is an avid collector, owning over 200 pairs of shoes. He also enjoys sports, video games, and music genres like punk rock and rap.
- Health Journey: Motivated by his father’s passing from pancreatic cancer at 54, Chumlee adopted a healthier lifestyle, resulting in significant weight loss. By October 2021, he had lost 160 pounds through diet, exercise, and gastric sleeve surgery.
- Marital Status: Chumlee married Olivia Rademann in 2019 after a three-year relationship. However, the couple divorced a few months later.
Legal Issues
- 2016 Arrest: In March 2016, Chumlee’s home was searched during a sexual assault investigation, leading to the discovery of firearms and illegal substances. He was arrested and later released on bond. By May 2016, he faced 20 felony charges but avoided jail time through a plea deal, resulting in probation and counseling.
Real Estate Investments
- Property Holdings: While specific details about Chumlee’s real estate investments are limited, his primary residence is in Las Vegas, Nevada, aligning with his business operations.
Conclusion
Chumlee’s journey from a pawn shop employee to a reality TV star and entrepreneur exemplifies his multifaceted career. With a net worth of approximately $5 million as of 2025, his success is attributed to his television role, business ventures, and personal brand.
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TV producer and writer with credits on Netflix, NBC, CBS, FOX, CNN, TBS, E!, & HGTV by day! Stand-up comedian, voice-over artist, actor/actress, director, and bowler by night! World's Most Mediocre Superhero!
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