Rick Harrison went into the hospital expecting a quick, minor procedure. Instead, the 61-year-old television personality ended up on the operating table for emergency heart bypass surgery. Doctors caught a serious cardiac issue that required immediate attention.
A representative for Harrison confirmed the medical emergency on Friday. The spokesperson said doctors stepped in right away when they discovered the blocked blood flow. Harrison is currently resting comfortably and expecting a full recovery.
Harrison built his reputation as the face of “Pawn Stars,” the History Channel show based out of the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in downtown Las Vegas, Nevada. The shop sits right on Las Vegas Boulevard, where Harrison has worked deals for decades. He told staff he is grateful for the care he received.
His wife, Agripina “Angie” Polushkin, has stayed by his hospital bed alongside other close family members. The family has not revealed the specific medical condition that caused the sudden surgery. They also have not shared how long the operation took or when he can head home.
In the days leading up to his hospital visit, Harrison stayed active on social media. He posted product promotions and replied to fans like usual. Nobody watching his regular posts knew a sudden surgery was right around the corner.
The health emergency caps off a busy year in Harrison’s personal life. He married Angie Polushkin in Las Vegas back in January, followed by a second wedding party at the Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cancun.
Harrison has led the pawn shop show since it started back in 2009. Now in its 24th season, the series remains one of the network’s biggest hits, and Harrison plans to get back to work as soon as he recovers.
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