# They WARNED Us About Corey “Big Hoss” Harrison On Pawn Stars… We Didn’t Listen
Corey “Big Hoss” Harrison, a staple on *Pawn Stars*, has been a beloved figure for years, known for his role at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas.
However, behind the laid-back persona, warnings about his lifestyle, personal struggles, and controversies have long circulated. Fans often dismissed these red flags, but recent events have made them impossible to ignore, shedding light on a complex life shaped by fame, family, and personal challenges.
Born on April 27, 1983, in Las Vegas, Corey grew up in the pawn business, learning the trade from his grandfather, Richard “Old Man” Harrison, and father, Rick Harrison. From a young age, he was immersed in the family’s shop, mastering negotiation and appraisal skills while developing a strong work ethic.
Nicknamed “Big Hoss” due to his large physique, Corey faced health concerns early on, weighing over 400 pounds by his 20s. Despite warnings from family and friends, he initially brushed off these issues, focusing instead on proving himself in the business. His role evolved from simple tasks to handling major deals, though frequent clashes with Rick over business decisions hinted at deeper tensions.
When *Pawn Stars* premiered in 2009 on the History Channel, Corey became a star overnight. The show, highlighting the shop’s unique mix of antiques and oddities, made him a relatable figure with his blunt honesty and wit.
However, fame brought intense pressure. Filming schedules, public recognition, and family disputes—often aired on screen—strained his personal life. In Season 7, Corey demanded a 10% partnership in the shop, threatening to leave if unmet; he settled for 5% with potential for more. This public friction with Rick revealed real, unscripted tension, not just drama for ratings.
Health remained a persistent warning sign. In 2010, Corey underwent lap band surgery, losing over 200 pounds and transforming his appearance and energy.
While this was a triumph, other struggles emerged. Legal issues, including a 2011 arrest for battery and resisting arrest in California, and a 2023 DUI suspicion in Las Vegas (later dismissed), tarnished his image. Personal life challenges compounded these issues—two failed marriages, first to high school sweetheart Charlene and then to Karina “Kiki” Harrison in 2017, alongside fatherhood to son Richard Benjamin Harrison in 2018, tested his resilience.
Beyond *Pawn Stars*, Corey ventured into entrepreneurship, co-owning Beauty Bar in Las Vegas, which failed due to violence and license revocation in 2018. Undeterred, he pursued a barbecue restaurant, Big Hoss’s Smoking Joint, in Tulum, Mexico, reflecting a personal passion for food. Despite a net worth of $4-5 million, built from TV earnings and business stakes, warnings about his impulsive decisions and temper persist. Corey’s journey—from pawn shop kid to reality star—mirrors everyday struggles, reminding us that fame doesn’t shield anyone from life’s pitfalls.
