Rick Harrison, the prominent star of the reality television series Pawn Stars, has publicly contested the financial narrative presented in a GoFundMe campaign established to assist his son, Corey Harrison, with substantial medical expenses. The fundraiser, initiated by Corey's friend Aron Chambers, detailed that Corey faced over $100,000 in bills following a severe motorcycle accident in Tulum, Mexico, earlier this year.
Medical Crisis and Fundraiser Details
Corey Harrison, aged 42, endured a harrowing ordeal after the crash, resulting in eleven fractured ribs, a punctured lung, a concussion, and internal bleeding. He required a fourteen-day hospital stay to recover from these injuries. The GoFundMe page was created to alleviate the financial burden, citing the high costs of medical treatment and related expenses.
Rick Harrison's Contradictory Claims
In a statement to Fox News Digital, Rick Harrison asserted that he had already settled his son's medical bills well before the GoFundMe campaign was launched. "I paid all of Corey's medical bills long before he put the GoFundMe out," Rick declared. He emphasized Corey's adult responsibilities, noting, "He is a grown man in his 40s and is responsible for how he handles his finances." Rick added that while repayment would be appreciated, there is no formal schedule for it.
Corey Harrison's Response to Criticism
Corey Harrison addressed mounting negative feedback on social media and news outlets, particularly in response to TMZ's coverage of the fundraiser. On X, formerly Twitter, Corey expressed frustration, stating, "Ok, I'm getting some really nasty comments on the TMZ website from people who don't know me or the money I’ve donated to the Children’s Hospital over the years." He revealed that he provided TMZ with bank account details and paid bills to demonstrate his financial predicament.
Corey made a commitment to donate all funds received from the GoFundMe to the Children's Hospital once he is able to work again. "When I get back on my feet and I’m able to work again, I will donate all of the money that I receive back to the Children’s Hospital," he pledged. He appealed for compassion, saying, "Please, I’m asking nicely—don’t kick a person when they are already down."
Fundraiser Progress and Career Context
At the time of reporting, the GoFundMe campaign had raised $9,000 toward its $18,000 goal. Corey Harrison clarified to TMZ that he is no longer involved with Pawn Stars, though he continues to receive residual payments. He announced in 2025 that he did not renew his contract with the show, citing a desire to move beyond playing a character. "At this stage of the game, we’re all playing a character on Pawn Stars," Corey explained to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. "I can’t play another season of 41-year-old me pretending to be 23."
Corey also referenced his father's podcast, Pawn After Dark, indicating a shift in his career focus. "They told me what they are doing and I said, 'Alright, cool. I’ll pack it up. I’m moving to Mexico. You guys have a fun time out here and do what you want to do,'" he stated. The History Channel series is currently on indefinite hiatus after its twenty-third season concluded in 2025, with no announced plans for revival.
