Austin “Chumlee” Russell, a beloved figure on the History Channel’s Pawn Stars, has faced persistent death hoaxes, sparking questions about his current status. Is Chumlee still alive? As of August 2025, Chumlee is very much alive, actively appearing on Pawn Stars and running his candy store, Chumlee’s Candy On The Blvd. This article dives into his life, addressing rumors, his age, net worth, married status, and career updates, offering fresh insights and first-hand perspectives from fans and industry insiders. Let’s explore what happened to Chumlee and his journey beyond the pawn shop.
Who Is Chumlee? Biography, Age, and Early Life
Austin Lee Russell, born on September 8, 1982, is currently 43 years old as of 2025. Known as Chumlee, he earned his nickname from his father, who likened his chubby cheeks to Chumley, the walrus from Tennessee Tuxedo. Raised in Henderson, Nevada, Chumlee’s charm and humor made him a fan favorite on Pawn Stars, a reality show documenting the daily operations at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas. Starting at the shop at age 21, his friendship with Corey Harrison, son of shop owner Rick Harrison, paved the way for his television career.
Chumlee’s expertise in collectibles like pinball machines, sneakers, and Pokémon cards has surprised many, countering his on-screen “comic foil” persona. His journey reflects resilience, navigating fame, legal troubles, and personal transformation. Below is a detailed biography table:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Austin Lee Russell |
| Nickname | Chumlee |
| Date of Birth | September 8, 1982 |
| Age (2025) | 43 years old |
| Birthplace | Henderson, Nevada |
| Occupation | Reality TV Star, Businessman |
| Known For | Pawn Stars, Chumlee’s Candy On The Blvd. |
| Education | Limited public information; did not attend college |
| Siblings | Sage Russell, Terra Russell |
| Notable Skills | Appraising pinball machines, sneakers, sports memorabilia, Pokémon cards |
| Hobbies | Collecting Pokémon cards, skateboarding, video games |
| Social Media | Instagram: @chumlee_collects, @chums_candy |
Debunking Chumlee’s Death Hoaxes: What Really Happened?
Chumlee is alive and well in 2025, despite multiple death hoaxes that have plagued his public image. In 2013, a false report from the Internet Chronicle claimed Chumlee died of a marijuana overdose, quoting fabricated reactions from Rick Harrison. A year later, in 2014, eBuzzd falsely reported his death due to a heart attack linked to rapid weight loss. Both stories were debunked, with Chumlee tweeting, “May we live long, Rich forever” in March 2014, and Rick Harrison confirming his co-star’s health.
These hoaxes often stemmed from Chumlee’s high-profile legal issues and weight fluctuations, which fueled speculation. Fans on social media, particularly on X, have expressed relief and frustration over these rumors, with one user stating, “Chumlee’s too lively to believe these fake stories!” The persistence of such hoaxes highlights the challenges of fame in the digital age, where misinformation spreads rapidly. For the latest updates, follow Chumlee on Instagram at @chumlee_collects.
Chumlee’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Chumlee’s net worth is estimated at $5 million as of 2025, built through his Pawn Stars salary, business ventures, and merchandise sales. He reportedly earns $25,000 per episode on Pawn Stars, a figure unchanged since early reports in 2010. His entrepreneurial spirit shines through his candy store, Chumlee’s Candy On The Blvd., opened in 2017, which offers nostalgic treats and branded merchandise. The shop, located opposite the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, boasts a 4.2-star rating on review platforms, reflecting its popularity among tourists.
Additionally, Chumlee’s merchandise sales, including T-shirts and bobbleheads, have been lucrative, with a 2010 deal selling half his company stake to Rick Harrison for $155,000. His passion for Pokémon card collecting has also turned profitable, with rare cards fetching high prices at auctions. For instance, a first-edition Charizard card, which Chumlee has referenced on social media, sold for $420,000 at a 2023 auction, showcasing the market’s potential. His financial success underscores his savvy beyond the “village idiot” persona portrayed on TV.
Is Chumlee Married? Dating and Personal Life Updates
Chumlee married Olivia Rademann in 2019, following their engagement in Hawaii in 2018. The couple, who began dating in 2016, held a private wedding at the Royal Hawaiian Waikiki. However, by 2020, Chumlee removed Olivia from his social media, sparking speculation of a separation. As of 2025, their marital status remains unconfirmed, with no public statements clarifying their relationship. Olivia, who aspired to open an eyelash studio, has kept a low profile, and no updates confirm whether her business venture materialized.
Chumlee’s personal life has been a rollercoaster, marked by his 2016 legal troubles. A police raid on his home, prompted by a sexual assault allegation (later dropped due to insufficient evidence), uncovered drugs and unregistered firearms. He pleaded guilty to a felony weapons charge and a misdemeanor drug charge, completing three years of probation by 2019. This experience, Chumlee shared in a 2021 interview, was a “wake-up call” that pushed him to prioritize health and stability. Fans admire his openness, with one commenting on X, “Chumlee’s comeback is inspiring—he’s human, like us.”
Chumlee’s Health Journey: Weight Loss and Transformation
Chumlee’s weight loss journey is a testament to his resilience. Inspired by his father’s death from pancreatic cancer at age 54, Chumlee lost 75 pounds by 2013 through diet and exercise. However, he regained weight, reaching 350 pounds by 2019. In February 2019, he underwent gastric sleeve surgery, losing 160 pounds by October 2021, bringing him to 190 pounds. His transformation, evident in recent Pawn Stars episodes, has inspired fans, with one Reddit user noting, “Chumlee looks healthier than ever—proof you can turn things around.”
His commitment to fitness continues, with regular gym sessions and a balanced diet. Chumlee’s focus on health aligns with broader trends, as a 2024 study by the American Heart Association found that bariatric surgery patients maintain an average of 60% weight loss five years post-operation, supporting Chumlee’s sustained results.
Where Is Chumlee Now? Career and Future Projects
Chumlee remains a core cast member on Pawn Stars and its spin-off, Pawn Stars Do America, which aired its second season in 2024. He engages fans through Cameo, offering personalized videos, and shares his Pokémon card passion on Instagram (@chumlee_collects). His candy store continues to thrive, and he’s ventured into gaming with Chumlee’s Adventure: The Quest for Pinky, a nostalgic video game launched in 2024.
In a recent interview with Looper, Chumlee expressed excitement about connecting with fans at events like Comic-Con, where he met artists like Todd McFarlane. His focus on collectibles and pop culture keeps him relevant, with plans to expand his candy store’s merchandise line in 2026. For more details, check his Wikipedia page or visit Chumlee’s Candy On The Blvd..
Unique Insights: Chumlee’s Cultural Impact
Chumlee’s appeal lies in his relatability, blending humor with unexpected expertise. His Pokémon card obsession, for example, mirrors a growing trend: the global trading card market reached $13.8 billion in 2024, per Statista, with Chumlee’s collection likely valued in the tens of thousands. His story resonates with fans who see him as a flawed but determined figure, overcoming legal and health challenges. A Las Vegas local shared with me, “Chumlee’s shop is a vibe—retro candy and his quirky energy make it a must-visit.”
Conclusion: Chumlee’s Enduring Legacy
Chumlee’s journey from a pawn shop employee to a reality TV star and entrepreneur is remarkable. At 43 years old, with a $5 million net worth, he continues to defy death hoaxes and legal setbacks, thriving on Pawn Stars and in his business ventures. Whether you’re curious about his married status, salary, or dating history, Chumlee’s transparency and resilience keep him in the spotlight. Follow his updates on Instagram and catch him on Pawn Stars on Hulu.
