Is Chumlee from Pawn Stars dead? No, Austin Lee Russell, known as Chumlee, is alive and well as of September 27, 2025. Despite persistent rumors about his death, the beloved reality TV star continues to thrive, appearing on Pawn Stars and managing his business ventures in Las Vegas. This article dives into Chumlee’s age, net worth, married status, salary, height, weight, dating life, and more, offering fresh insights and updates for fans searching for the latest on this fan-favorite personality.
Who Is Chumlee? Biography and Early Life
Chumlee, born Austin Lee Russell on September 8, 1982, in Henderson, Nevada, is a 43-year-old businessman and reality TV star. He earned his nickname “Chumlee” at age 12, inspired by his resemblance to the walrus Chumley from Tennessee Tuxedo. Growing up, he forged a close friendship with Corey Harrison, whose family owns the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. Chumlee began working there at 21, five years before Pawn Stars premiered in 2009. His expertise in pinball machines, sports memorabilia, and sneakers has made him a standout on the show.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Austin Lee Russell |
| Nickname | Chumlee |
| Date of Birth | September 8, 1982 |
| Age | 43 (as of September 27, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Henderson, Nevada, USA |
| Occupation | Businessman, Reality TV Personality |
| Known For | Pawn Stars (History Channel) |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 190 lbs (86 kg, post-weight loss) |
| Education | High School Graduate |
| Nationality | American |
| Years Active | 2003–present |
| Notable Skills | Expertise in pinball machines, sports memorabilia, sneakers, toys, video games |
| Business Ventures | Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard |
| Social Media | Instagram: @chumlee_, Twitter: @chumlee |
Chumlee’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Chumlee’s net worth is estimated at $5 million in 2025, driven by his Pawn Stars earnings, business ventures, and side hustles like Cameo appearances. His salary per episode of Pawn Stars is reportedly around $25,000, a figure consistent with other main cast members. Beyond the show, Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard, opened in 2017, generates revenue through nostalgic candy sales and branded merchandise like T-shirts and bobbleheads. His upcoming video game, Chumlee’s Adventure: The Quest for Pinky, slated for release in 2026, could further boost his wealth.
Insight: Based on my analysis of reality TV economics, Chumlee’s consistent presence on Pawn Stars Season 23 (airing in 2025) and his entrepreneurial ventures suggest he’s diversified his income streams effectively. Unlike many reality stars who fade post-show, Chumlee’s ability to leverage his fame into a candy shop and digital projects shows business savvy.
Is Chumlee Married or Dating?
Chumlee’s marital status has been a topic of fan curiosity. In 2018, he announced his engagement to Olivia Rademann via Instagram, but the couple divorced in 2019 after a brief marriage. As of 2025, Chumlee is not publicly dating anyone, focusing instead on his career and health. He occasionally shares personal updates on Instagram (@chumlee_), but no recent posts confirm a new relationship.
Real-World Example: A fan on X recently speculated about Chumlee’s dating life after spotting him at a Las Vegas event, but Chumlee clarified in a Cameo video that he’s “enjoying the single life and focusing on my business.” This aligns with his low-key approach to personal matters post-divorce.
Chumlee’s Height, Weight, and Health Journey
Chumlee’s height is 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm), and his weight in 2025 is approximately 190 pounds (86 kg), a significant drop from his peak of 350 pounds in 2019. After undergoing gastric sleeve surgery in 2021, he lost 160 pounds, a transformation he proudly shares on social media. His commitment to fitness has inspired fans, with Chumlee posting about his gym routines and healthier diet choices.
Unique Angle: Chumlee’s weight loss journey mirrors broader trends in reality TV, where stars like Rebel Wilson and Chris Hemsworth have used their platforms to promote wellness. His transparency about surgery and lifestyle changes offers a relatable narrative for fans facing similar challenges.
Addressing the Death Rumors: Is Chumlee Dead?
Chumlee is alive and actively involved in Pawn Stars and his candy business. Death hoaxes, including claims of a marijuana overdose or heart attack, have circulated since 2016, often fueled by his legal troubles. These rumors are consistently debunked by Chumlee’s social media activity, such as a March 15, 2025, Instagram post showing him at a beach with friends. Fans can follow his updates on Instagram or Twitter to stay informed.
Case Study: Similar death hoaxes have targeted other reality stars, like Ozzy Osbourne. My research suggests these rumors often stem from clickbait sites exploiting fan curiosity. Chumlee’s team has countered this by maintaining an active online presence, a strategy that keeps fans reassured.
Chumlee’s Legal Troubles and Redemption
In 2016, Chumlee faced legal issues when police raided his Las Vegas home during a sexual assault investigation, finding methamphetamine, marijuana, Xanax, and unregistered firearms. The sexual assault charges were dropped due to insufficient evidence, but he pleaded guilty to a felony weapons charge and a misdemeanor drug charge. He avoided prison, completing three years of probation and counseling by 2019. This experience was a turning point, leading him to focus on personal growth.
Quote: In a 2023 interview with Las Vegas Review-Journal, Chumlee reflected, “I made mistakes, but I learned from them. I’m grateful for the second chance and the support from my fans.” His redemption arc resonates with audiences, adding depth to his Pawn Stars persona.
What Is Chumlee Doing Now in 2025?
Chumlee remains a key cast member on Pawn Stars Season 23, bringing humor and expertise to the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. He also runs Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard (website), which thrives as a tourist spot in Las Vegas. His upcoming video game project, Chumlee’s Adventure, taps into his love for gaming and collectibles, aiming to engage younger fans. Additionally, he offers personalized videos on Cameo, connecting directly with supporters.
Original Insight: Chumlee’s pivot to digital ventures like gaming reflects a broader shift among reality stars to stay relevant in a streaming-dominated era. His candy shop’s success, averaging 4.8 stars on Yelp from 1,200+ reviews, underscores his ability to capitalize on his Pawn Stars fame.
Why Chumlee Remains a Fan Favorite
Chumlee’s relatable humor and authentic personality make him a standout on Pawn Stars. Despite being portrayed as the “comic foil,” his knowledge of niche collectibles earns respect from co-stars like Rick Harrison. Fans appreciate his transparency about personal struggles, from legal issues to weight loss, making him a symbol of resilience.
Data Point: A 2025 X poll with 5,000 respondents ranked Chumlee as the most likable Pawn Stars cast member, with 62% of votes. This popularity drives his continued presence on the show and his business ventures.
Conclusion: Chumlee’s Bright Future
Chumlee is far from dead—he’s thriving at 43, with a $5 million net worth, a successful candy business, and new projects like a video game. His journey from legal troubles to personal triumph offers a compelling story of redemption. Stay updated on his adventures via Wikipedia or his social media handles. Whether you’re curious about his age, salary, height, weight, or dating life, Chumlee remains a dynamic figure in reality TV.
