‘Pawn Stars’ Star Rick Harrison Reflects on Son’s Fatal Overdose and Ongoing Grief

March 20, 2025

Rick Harrison, renowned for his role in the reality television series “Pawn Stars,” has opened up about the profound loss of his son, Adam Harrison, who succumbed to a drug overdose in January 2024 at the age of 39. In a candid interview on “In Depth with Graham Bensinger,” Rick discussed the enduring pain and relentless self-reflection that accompanies the death of a child.​

Adam’s battle with substance abuse spanned many years, with numerous attempts at rehabilitation proving unsuccessful. Rick recounted his exhaustive efforts to support his son, including multiple stints in rehab and even resorting to legal interventions in hopes of steering Adam toward recovery. Despite these measures, Adam’s struggle culminated in a fatal overdose involving fentanyl and methamphetamine. ​

Reflecting on this tragic outcome, Rick expressed the torment of persistent self-questioning: “When you lose a kid, you second-guess everything. It’s like, could I have done this? Could I have done that?” He emphasized the unique

​Rick Harrison, the prominent figure behind the popular television series “Pawn Stars,” has opened up about the profound grief following the loss of his son, Adam Harrison, who succumbed to a fentanyl overdose in January 2024 at the age of 39. In a candid interview on “In Depth With Graham Bensinger,” Rick discussed the enduring pain and relentless self-questioning that accompanies such a tragic loss

Reflecting on Adam’s prolonged battle with addiction, Rick recounted numerous attempts to support his son, including multiple stints in rehabilitation. Despite periods of progress, Adam often relapsed, with his struggles intensifying over time. Rick expressed the torment of hindsight, stating, “When you lose a kid, you second-guess f—ing everything. It’s like, ‘Could I have done this? Could I have done this?’ It goes through your brain constantly.” ​

The anguish of losing a child is a recurring theme in Rick’s reflections. He emphasized that there’s “nothing worse than losing a kid,” highlighting the unique and profound nature of such a loss. ​

In coping with his grief, Rick focuses on cherishing memories of Adam and strengthening bonds with his surviving children and grandchildren. He shared, “I think about the good times, and think about my other kids, my new grandbaby, my other grandkids. I got four grandkids. So keep on moving on.” ​

Rick’s experience sheds light on the pervasive issue of opioid addiction and the devastating impact of fentanyl. His story underscores the importance of addressing this crisis and supporting those affected by addiction.