Core status: When did the old man from Pawn Stars die?
Richard Harrison, widely known as "The Old Man" on History's Pawn Stars, died on March 25, 2018. He was 77. His passing was widely reported at the time and confirmed by family statements and production updates. The cause was related to complications from long-standing health issues, notably chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart conditions. This article clarifies the timeline and provides verified context around his death.
Who was The Old Man on Pawn Stars
Richard Harrison (May 22, 1940 – March 25, 2018) was the patriarchal figure and co-owner of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Nevada. He became a global television personality when the shop became the setting for Pawn Stars. Onscreen, Harrison was often portrayed as the cautious, old-world counterpoint to the more outgoing cast members. His death marked the end of an era for the series, though reruns remain popular.
Health background
Key conditions and events
Harrison had been dealing with significant health challenges in the years leading up to his death. He was a long-time smoker and suffered from COPD, which progressively reduced his stamina. He also had heart surgery in 2009 and was frequently hospitalized in later years. These conditions culminated in the acute episode that caused his death in 2018.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of death | March 25, 2018 | Family statements and news reports |
| Age at death | 77 years old | Biography and official notices |
| Primary condition | COPD and heart complications | Medical reports and interviews |
| Location | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA | Local news records |
Timeline around his passing
In the months before his death, Harrison was hospitalized multiple times. On March 25, 2018, he suffered a major medical emergency and was pronounced dead at a Las Vegas hospital. The shop remained open and continued filming soon after, with later seasons focusing more on younger staff and other family members. His son Rick Harrison, the co-owner of the shop, frequently acknowledged his father's legacy in onscreen discussions.
Immediate reactions and legacy
News of Harrison's death prompted an outpouring of reactions from fans, colleagues, and the network. Series producers issued statements acknowledging his role in the show's success. Tributes highlighted his work ethic, his love for classic cars, and his distinctive personality. The show continued beyond his death, though his presence was missed as a central cast figure.
Life and career at a glance
- Born: May 22, 1940
- Died: March 25, 2018 (aged 77)
- Known for: Pawn Stars, Gold & Silver Pawn Shop
- Health: COPD, prior heart surgery
- Family: Married; father of Rick Harrison and others
- Profession: Pawn shop owner and television personality
FAQs: Common follow-up questions
Many viewers continue to ask about the circumstances and timeline of Harrison's death. Below are concise answers to the most frequent questions.
How did The Old Man from Pawn Stars die?
Richard Harrison died from complications related to COPD and heart disease. He had multiple hospitalizations in the months before his death.
What was his age at the time of death?
He was 77 years old when he passed away on March 25, 2018.
Did his death immediately end Pawn Stars?
No. The show continued production after his death, with later seasons featuring other cast members and storylines.
Was he the oldest cast member at the time of death?
Yes, among the core cast featured prominently on the series, he was the oldest.
Are there public statements from his family?
Yes, family members issued public statements confirming the date, cause, and context of his death.