Pawn Stars

“Pawn Stars” debuted in July 2009. The reality show gives viewers an insider’s view of running Gold & Silver Pawn, but mostly it’s about the people: Rick Harrison, who runs the store in Downtown Las Vegas, Corey Harrison, Rick’s son, Chumlee — that’s Austin Russell’s nickname, and The Old Man — Rick’s father, Richard Harrison, who died Monday morning after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease. The show featured a parade of local experts on collectors items that show up on pawn shops’ countertops. And the junk that everyone wants to believe is worth hundreds — maybe thousands. The merchandise, and the experts who knew so much about it, captured more attention and prompted several spinoffs. From Counting Cars to American Restoration and Cajun Pawn Stars. Pawn Stars created a national following and a foundation for Reality TV programs in Las Vegas.