1. He’s Been Open About Struggling with Addiction
Chum Lee, born Austin Lee Russell, has candidly shared his struggles with substance abuse over the years. At the height of his fame on Pawn Stars, he found himself using substances as a coping mechanism for stress and public scrutiny. His openness is a reminder that even those in the spotlight grapple with personal demons.
2. A Childhood Marked by Tragedy
Chum Lee’s childhood was not as carefree as many might assume. He lost a close friend to an illness when he was just 12 years old, which left a lasting impact on him. This early encounter with loss shaped his outlook on life and continues to influence his compassionate personality.
3. He Was Bullied for His Weight
Throughout his life, Chum Lee has struggled with weight issues, and as a child, he was often teased and bullied because of it. This experience left him with insecurities that he’s worked hard to overcome as an adult. His recent weight loss journey speaks volumes about his determination to take control of his health.
4. A Brush with the Law That Changed Everything
In 2016, Chum Lee was arrested after police found firearms and illegal substances during a raid on his home. Though the charges were eventually reduced, the incident was a wake-up call for him. It forced him to reevaluate his life and set him on a path toward making better choices.
5. He’s Dealt with the Dark Side of Fame
While Pawn Stars brought him international recognition, fame also brought its challenges. Chum Lee has spoken about how being in the public eye led to stress and anxiety. The constant scrutiny made him question who he could trust, highlighting the isolating nature of celebrity life.
6. Losing His Father Was Devastating
Chum Lee’s father passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2013. This was a heartbreaking moment in his life, and he has often mentioned how much he misses his dad. His father’s death was a reminder to cherish loved ones and inspired Chum to focus on family.
7. He’s Battled Public Perception
Often portrayed as the comic relief on Pawn Stars, Chum Lee has faced criticism for being the “clown” of the show. Many viewers assumed he wasn’t intelligent or capable, which deeply affected him. Over time, he’s proven his worth by taking on significant roles in the business.
8. Financial Struggles Before Fame
Before Pawn Stars, Chum Lee wasn’t financially secure. He worked odd jobs and barely made ends meet. His journey to financial stability through hard work and dedication is a testament to his resilience and determination to build a better life.
9. He’s Faced Friendship Strains
Chum Lee’s close friendship with Corey Harrison, a co-star on Pawn Stars, hasn’t been without its ups and downs. Fame and differing priorities have occasionally created tension between them. However, Chum values loyalty and has worked to maintain their bond despite the challenges.
10. Health Scares Made Him Rethink His Lifestyle
At one point, Chum Lee’s weight reached over 300 pounds, putting him at risk for severe health issues. Determined to turn things around, he underwent gastric sleeve surgery and adopted healthier habits. His transformation highlights his dedication to self-improvement.
11. He’s Struggled with Self-Worth
Despite his success, Chum Lee has admitted to battling feelings of inadequacy. Being constantly compared to his co-stars and facing online criticism took a toll on his confidence. Over time, he’s learned to embrace his unique qualities and appreciate his contributions to the show.
12. Navigating Rumors and Scandals
As a public figure, Chum Lee has been the subject of numerous false rumors and scandals. From fabricated stories about his personal life to exaggerated accounts of his legal troubles, he’s had to develop a thick skin to handle the relentless gossip.
13. The Pressure to Stay Relevant
As Pawn Stars aged, Chum Lee felt the pressure to remain relevant in an ever-changing entertainment landscape. He’s admitted that keeping the audience’s interest while staying true to himself has been a delicate balancing act.
14. He Misses Privacy
Fame has come at a cost for Chum Lee, who often yearns for the simpler days when he could go unnoticed in public. The lack of privacy has been one of the hardest adjustments, but he’s found solace in focusing on his passions and spending time with close friends and family.
