When you hear the name Chumlee, most people think of the lovable, funny, and sometimes goofy star of the hit TV series Pawn Stars. But beyond his on-screen persona, Austin Lee Russell, better known as Chumlee, has been on an inspiring personal journey — a battle with obesity, struggles with dieting, and ultimately a life-changing weight loss transformation.
From weighing nearly 350 pounds to shedding 160 pounds and embracing a healthier lifestyle, Chumlee’s story is one of perseverance, struggle, and self-care.
This article dives deep into the Chumlee weight loss journey: how he did it, the role of gastric bypass surgery, diet and exercise changes, before-and-after photos, and what his transformation means for fans who struggle with weight loss.
Who Is Chumlee?
Before discussing his weight loss, let’s first get to know who Chumlee really is.
- Full Name: Austin Lee Russell
- Born: September 8, 1982 (Henderson, Nevada, USA)
- Known As: “Chumlee” from Pawn Stars on the History Channel
- Profession: TV personality, businessman, and owner of Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard in Las Vegas
Chumlee became a fan-favorite on Pawn Stars thanks to his quirky humor and relatable personality. However, behind the scenes, his weight was a growing concern that affected both his health and self-esteem.
The Struggles Before Chumlee’s Weight Loss
Like millions of people worldwide, Chumlee struggled with obesity from a young age.
- His weight fluctuated for years due to yo-yo dieting.
- He tried different workout routines and diets, but the results didn’t last.
- By 2019, his weight reached 350 pounds (approx. 150 kg).
Carrying that much weight led to:
- Low energy
- Health risks (diabetes, heart disease, joint pain)
- Emotional stress from being in the public eye
He once shared in interviews that he was worried about his health and longevity, which pushed him to make a profound change.
How Did Chumlee Lose Weight?
Chumlee’s weight loss wasn’t an overnight miracle. It was a mix of:
- Years of struggling with diets and workouts
- He tried to eat healthy and exercise regularly.
- Despite losing some weight, he often gained it back.
- Decision to Undergo Gastric Bypass Surgery
- After years of frustration, he chose gastric sleeve surgery.
- This procedure reduces stomach size, helping control food intake.
- After surgery, he lost an incredible 160 pounds, dropping from 350 lbs to around 190 lbs.
- Lifestyle Changes After Surgery
- Began focusing on nutritious meals (fruits, vegetables, lean proteins).
- Exercised more consistently.
- Adopted a healthier relationship with food.
Chumlee Weight Loss Surgery: What Is Gastric Bypass?
Gastric bypass surgery, or in some cases gastric sleeve surgery, is a weight loss procedure that reduces the size of the stomach. This makes a person feel full after eating less food.
- Why it worked for Chumlee:
- Helped him control overeating
- Reduced calorie intake naturally
- Kick-started rapid weight loss
- Risks & Challenges:
- Requires lifelong commitment to diet and lifestyle changes
- Can cause nutritional deficiencies if not managed properly
👉 For Chumlee, the surgery was not a “quick fix” but rather the beginning of a lifestyle transformation.
Chumlee’s Diet After Weight Loss
After surgery, Chumlee knew he couldn’t go back to old eating habits. He focused on:
- Vegetables and leafy greens
- Fresh fruits
- Lean proteins like chicken, fish, turkey
- Whole grains in moderation
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Avoiding sugary drinks, processed foods, and junk snacks
His wife, Olivia Rademann, also played a big role in supporting his new eating habits.
Chumlee’s Exercise Routine
Weight loss surgery alone isn’t enough. Chumlee added regular exercise to his life.
- Gym workouts – 5–6 times a week
- Cardio training – walking, running, cycling
- Strength training – to build lean muscle
- Consistency – made fitness a regular habit instead of a temporary fix
Chumlee Before and After Weight Loss
One of the most shocking parts of Chumlee’s transformation is his before and after photos.
- Before: At 350 lbs, he struggled with obesity, and it showed in his face and body.
- After: Post-surgery, he looks leaner, healthier, and more confident.
Fans who saw his transformation on social media said he was “unrecognizable.”
Chumlee’s Transformation: Then and Now
- Then: Nicknamed “Chumlee” because of his large cheeks and face. He lived with the burden of obesity for decades.
- Now: At 190 lbs, he feels healthier, happier, and full of energy. He enjoys eating healthy food and working out.
Chumlee has said that his family, friends, and fans played a huge role in motivating him throughout the journey.
Lessons from Chumlee’s Weight Loss Journey
- Weight loss is not just physical — it’s mental.
- Support systems matter (family, friends, or community).
- Surgery is not a shortcut, but a tool that requires commitment.
- Consistency beats perfection — small, daily habits add up.
Chumlee Weight Loss Transformation | Pawn Stars
FAQs About Chumlee Weight Loss
Chumlee lost around 160 pounds after gastric bypass surgery.
He underwent gastric bypass surgery to reduce his stomach size.
At his peak, he weighed 350 pounds.
He dropped to around 190 pounds after his transformation.
No, he combined surgery with diet changes and regular exercise.
His wife, Olivia Rademann, and close friends supported him.
Yes, he goes to the gym and exercises consistently.
He focuses on vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and whole foods.
His serious weight loss journey began around 2019, leading to surgery.
He once said his goal weight was around 170 pounds.
Yes, he tried several diets and gym routines, but struggled with long-term results.
His weight kept fluctuating, and obesity posed serious health risks.
It depends on lifestyle — surgery helps, but maintaining it requires healthy habits.
Yes, many fans find his story relatable and motivating.
It can be effective, but it carries risks and should only be done under medical supervision.
References:
- Mayo Clinic – Gastric Bypass Surgery Overview
- Cleveland Clinic – Bariatric Surgery Benefits & Risks
- NIH – Obesity and Weight Loss Treatments
