Pawn Stars’ Rick Harrison issues definitive response after hitting out at son’s GoFundMe
Pawn Stars' Rick Harrison has offered a definitive response after claiming to have covered his son's medical bills after a horror motorcycle accident.
The star of the long-running American television series had spoken to the media last week to dispute a GoFundMe which was set up in aid of his son Corey after he suffered life-threatening injuries in Mexico.
Corey, 42, was forced to spend nearly a month in two different hospitals as he recovered from injuries which included 11 fractured ribs, a concussion, punctured lung, and internal bleeding.
Although he was ultimately able to make a full recovery, the GoFundMe which was set up by his close friend Aron Chambers claimed that he was left with just $400 in his bank account, despite initially leaving the first hospital sooner than he was supposed to over fears about his ability to cover the fees.
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Chambers wrote: “In a heartbreaking moment that shook all of us to our core, Corey looked at us and said, ‘I’m just going to die out here. I don't have the money to keep paying these people'.”
The page also claims that he clocked up a bill of around $100,000 and needed help to cover the bills after finding himself fortunate to still be alive, but his father Rick quickly claimed this wasn't the case.
He told TMZ: “As far as I know, I paid all of Corey's medical bills long before he put the GoFundMe out.
He also suggested that there is no 'repayment schedule in place" for his son to make good on the personal loan.
“He is a grown man in his 40s and is responsible for how he handles his finances."
After some backlash, the pawn shop owner has now spoken out to suggest that they will sort this between themselves, seemingly bringing an end to the saga.
Speaking to TMZ, he said: "Corey and I will work this out by talking to each other and not the media.
"We appreciate everyone's support and concern but feel it is in the best interest of all to concentrate on Corey's recovery at this time."
His initial claims seemingly came as a surprise to Corey, who suggested that while he loves his father dearly, he's always been made to work hard for his own money.
Corey added: "If he decided I don't have to pay him back the money, then happy birthday to me," retorted Corey, who turns 43 next month.
"But based on our personal and business relationship, I don't see how that's possible. I love my father very much, he's always been there for me, and I don't have a problem with him at all."
However, the fundraising page remains up, and has brought in over $13k at the time of publication, with Corey also providing a recent health update.
Topics: GoFundMe
James Moorhouse