If you’ve ever tuned in to Pawn Stars, chances are you’ve had a laugh thanks to Chumlee’s quirky personality. Born Austin Lee Russell, he quickly became a household name not because of deep historical knowledge or rare antiques, but because of his relatable and humorous presence on the screen. Over the years, he’s gone from being the comic relief on a reality show to a self-made businessman with multiple income streams. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how chumlee net worth has grown to impressive levels and what helped him get there.
| Full Name | Austin Lee Russell (Chumlee) |
| Date of Birth | September 8, 1982 |
| Birthplace | Henderson, Nevada, USA |
| Nickname | Chumlee |
| Famous For | Pawn Stars (TV Show) |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Legal Issues | 2016 |
| Spouse | Olivia Rademann (married in 2019; separated) |
Chumlee Early Life and Background
Chumlee, whose real name is Austin Lee Russell, was born on September 8, 1982, in Henderson, Nevada. As a kid, he earned the nickname “Chumlee” because someone thought he looked like the walrus character from a popular cartoon. The name stuck, and it eventually became the identity millions would come to recognize on TV.
Growing up near Las Vegas, Chumlee became close friends with Corey Harrison. That friendship opened the door to a job at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, which Corey’s family owned. At 21, Chumlee joined the shop, handling tasks like testing electronics and helping with sales. What made him stand out wasn’t just what he did—it was his laid-back attitude and natural sense of humor that made him a hit with customers and, later, TV audiences.
Chumlee Net Worth
Chumlee net worth is estimated at around $5 million, and it all began with his role on Pawn Stars, where he earned about $25,000 per episode. With hundreds of episodes aired, this steady income helped lay the foundation for his financial growth.
He expanded with a merchandise line and opened “Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard.” Along with real estate deals like selling a home for $1.38 million and event gigs, these ventures played a big role in his success. His business sense proved he was more than just comic relief. Chumlee turned his popularity into lasting financial success.
Lifestyle and Interests
Chumlee enjoys his success with a personal touch. He owns standout cars like a Rolls-Royce Phantom, Maserati GranTurismo, and a 1964 Impala SS—vehicles that reflect both luxury and his passion for classic rides. His love for unique collectibles extends beyond the garage.
He also has over 200 pairs of sneakers and a collection of vintage pinball machines, showing his playful side and appreciation for nostalgia. Despite the fame, Chumlee stays grounded by quietly supporting local fundraisers and causes like autism awareness, proving he hasn’t forgotten where he came from.
Challenges and Comebacks
Chumlee faced a major challenge in 2016 when a legal case involving illegal substances and firearms made headlines. Rather than letting it define him, he accepted a plea deal, completed probation and counseling, and used the experience as a turning point. It was a tough moment, but he handled it head-on and got back to focusing on his career.
Another big change came with his health. After years of struggling with weight, he underwent gastric sleeve surgery and lost over 150 pounds. It wasn’t just a physical transformation—it showed his commitment to long-term well-being. This shift added a new layer to his public image and had a positive impact on chumlee net worth, as he began to be seen as more than just the funny guy on TV.
Current Projects and What’s Next
Chumlee remains a regular on Pawn Stars, continuing to entertain viewers while also running his own ventures. His candy store in Las Vegas stays busy with fans, and his merchandise line remains popular. He’s also active on social media, where he shares updates and interacts with followers, keeping his fanbase strong.
Looking ahead, Chumlee has hinted at branching out into other media and business projects. He’s clearly not slowing down.
Wrapping Up
Chumlee’s journey from pawn shop employee to TV star and entrepreneur is a story of turning opportunity into lasting success. He’s built chumlee net worth not just through money-making ventures, but by staying true to himself, learning from setbacks, and seizing every chance to grow. What sets him apart is his ability to evolve without losing the charm that made fans love him in the first place. His story is a reminder that with consistency, personality, and smart choices, anyone can turn a simple start into something big.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is Chumlee’s net worth in 2025?
It’s estimated to be around $5 million, built from TV earnings, merchandise, real estate, and business ventures.
Q2. Is Chumlee still on Pawn Stars?
Yes, he continues to appear regularly on the show and remains a fan favorite.
Q3. What business does he own?
He owns a candy store in Las Vegas and a merchandise line selling fan products.
Q4. Has Chumlee faced legal issues?
Yes, in 2016, but he resolved the case through a plea deal and completed his probation.
Q5. Has he made other media appearances?
Apart from Pawn Stars, he’s done live events, hosted shows, and appeared in promotional content.