Austin Chumlee Russell, an American reality TV star, businessman, and pawnshop employee, has a net worth of $5 million. Known for his role on “Pawn Stars,” Chumlee is beloved for his sweet nature, despite often being the butt of jokes and struggling with customer negotiations. He has extensive knowledge of video games and toys, which he often persuades his bosses to buy. Though nicknamed the “village idiot,” Chumlee has proven his business acumen by launching a successful company for public appearances and merchandise, eventually selling part of it to the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop.
Who is Chumlee?
This popular American actor was born AustinLee Russell on September 8, 1982. According to records, his place of birth was in Henderson, Nevada. The Caucasian earned the nickname “Chumlee” at the age of 12 due to his broad jaw and face.
Chumlee Age
Chumlee turned 38 years old in 2020. Born and raised in Henderson, Nevada, he’s lived in Las Vegas for most of his life. His passion for collecting and selling began early; as a child, he frequently went with his father to garage sales and flea markets.
Early Life and Background
Childhood and Nickname Origin
Born on September 8, 1982, in Henderson, Nevada, Austin Russell earned the nickname “Chumlee” at the age of 12. This moniker was inspired by the walrus character “Chumley” from the animated series Tennessee Tuxedo, due to Chumlee’s resemblance to the character. The nickname stuck, becoming a defining part of his identity.
Family and Early Influences
Chumlee grew up with two siblings, a brother named Sage and a sister named Terra. One of his closest childhood friends was Corey Harrison, the son of Rick Harrison and grandson of Richard Harrison, the founders of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. This early connection would later play a pivotal role in Chumlee’s career.
Career in “Pawn Stars”
Beginnings at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop
At the age of 21, Chumlee began working at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, where he performed various tasks ranging from testing items to assisting with customer service. The shop’s fame skyrocketed after it was featured on Comedy Central’s “Insomniac with Dave Attell,” eventually leading to the creation of “Pawn Stars.”
Rise to Fame on “Pawn Stars”
“Pawn Stars” debuted on the History Channel in 2009, quickly becoming the network’s most popular show. Chumlee, initially seen as comic relief, became a breakout star. His antics, combined with his genuine love for toys, video games, and quirky collectibles, endeared him to audiences.
Business Ventures and Merchandise
Leveraging his popularity, Chumlee launched his own company, selling novelty items and custom T-shirts. His merchandise proved highly successful, prompting him to sell a portion of the business to the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop to streamline distribution. In 2017, he expanded his entrepreneurial endeavors by opening “Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard,” a candy store managed by his brother Sage.
“Pawn Stars Do America”
Chumlee’s success on “Pawn Stars” led to a spinoff, “Pawn Stars Do America,” which premiered in 2022. In this series, the cast travels across the United States in search of unique collectibles, further solidifying Chumlee’s role as a key figure in the world of collectibles and reality TV.
Read More: Chuck Connors Net Worth
Legal Issues
The 2016 Incident
In March 2016, Chumlee’s home was raided by law enforcement as part of an investigation into sexual assault allegations. During the search, police discovered crystal meth, marijuana, Xanax, and several firearms, leading to Chumlee’s arrest. He was released on bond the following day.
Legal Charges and Plea Deal
On May 23, 2016, Chumlee was charged with 20 felony counts related to drug and weapons possession. He later accepted a plea deal, pleading guilty to a felony weapons charge and a gross misdemeanor for attempted drug possession. In exchange, he was sentenced to three years of probation and required to attend counseling sessions.
Personal Life
Interests and Hobbies
Chumlee has a passion for vintage pinball machines and is an avid collector of sneakers, with over 200 pairs in his collection. His interests also extend to video games, skateboarding, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Musically, he enjoys punk rock and rap, while his favorite television shows include “Boardwalk Empire,” “Sons of Anarchy,” and “Breaking Bad.”
Automobiles and Lifestyle
Chumlee’s love for cars is well-documented. His collection includes a Maserati, a Rolls-Royce Phantom, a Range Rover, a Cadillac Escalade, and a 1964 Impala SS. Additionally, he owns a customized 1986 Buick Regal with hydraulic lifts, reflecting his taste for unique and classic vehicles.
Health Transformation
Chumlee’s weight was once a concern, reaching 345 pounds. However, after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, he dramatically changed his lifestyle. He adopted a healthier diet, cutting out red meat and increasing his intake of vegetables and juices. His commitment to fitness included working out six days a week, which helped him lose 110 pounds. This transformation was partly inspired by the death of his father from pancreatic cancer at the age of 54.
Marriage and Personal Challenges
Chumlee married Olivia Russell in August 2019, after several years of friendship and dating. Despite their initial happiness, their relationship faced challenges, particularly due to their long-distance situation, with Olivia attending the University of California, Santa Barbara, and Chumlee residing in Las Vegas. In July 2020, fans noticed that Chumlee had removed all pictures of Olivia from his Instagram account, sparking rumors about the state of their relationship. Despite these challenges, Chumlee has remained focused on his career and personal growth.
Chumlee Car Collection
Chumlee from “Pawn Stars” is passionate about cars, owning a collection of over 30 rare and classic vehicles, including a 1955 Chevy Bel Air convertible, a Bentley Continental GT, and a Rolls-Royce Ghost. His love for cars began in childhood, inspired by attending car shows and races with his father. Beyond the vehicles, Chumlee enjoys the history and stories behind them. His collection, valued at $4 million, includes both classic and modern luxury cars, and he plans to keep expanding it.
Real Estate
Sale of Las Vegas Property
In February 2019, Chumlee sold his Las Vegas home for $1.375 million. The property, located approximately five miles from the Las Vegas Strip, featured a 6,200-square-foot main house, a guesthouse, and an expansive backyard with a rock-lined swimming pool. The estate was known for its “Chum Chum Room,” which was equipped with a stripper’s pole, adding a unique flair to the residence. Chumlee originally purchased the home for $1.1 million in 2012.
FACTS
- Early Life: Born on September 8, 1982, in Las Vegas, Nevada, Austin Russell earned the nickname “Chumlee” because of his resemblance to the character Chumlee from the animated TV show The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle.
- Pawn Stars: He became a prominent figure on Pawn Stars, where he works as a pawnbroker and occasionally handles valuable or unusual items that come through the shop.
- Family Business: Chumlee is part of the family business, Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, which is run by his friend and co-star Rick Harrison.
- Personal Interests: He has a passion for cars and owns a collection of custom vehicles.
- Legal Issues: Chumlee has had some legal trouble, including a 2016 arrest on various charges, but he has since moved past these issues.
FAQs
Who is Chumlee?
Chumlee is Austin Russell, a reality TV star known for his role on Pawn Stars. He works at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas.
How did Chumlee get his nickname?
He got the nickname “Chumlee” because of his resemblance to a character named Chumlee from The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle.
What is Chumlee’s role on Pawn Stars?
On Pawn Stars, Chumlee works as a pawn broker and helps evaluate and appraise items brought into the shop.
When did Chumlee join Pawn Stars?
Chumlee joined the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in the early 2000s and appeared on Pawn Stars when it premiered in 2009.
What are Chumlee’s hobbies?
Chumlee is passionate about cars and owns a collection of custom vehicles. He also enjoys video games and has been involved in various philanthropic activities.
Conclusion
Chumlee, whose real name is Austin Russell, is a well-known personality from *Pawn Stars*. Gaining fame through his role at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, he has become a notable figure in reality television. Despite some legal issues in the past, he remains active in his personal interests, such as cars and philanthropy. His popularity on the show and involvement in charitable efforts highlight his diverse contributions beyond television.
Stat Informed & Updated With: Truenetworth.Org!