MovieChat Forums > Pawn Stars (2009) Discussion > Do the sellers get an appearance fee or ...

Do the sellers get an appearance fee or just "get" to be on TV?

posted 9 years ago by dubjaseff
4 replies | jump to latest

I realize all the sellers are prescreened and some are serious while others obviously just wanted to be on TV (like the guys who are "outraged" at "low-ball" offers or "shocked" by an expert's opinion of inauthenticity), but if they get an appearance fee what difference would it make if they take or refuse any offer? A motivated seller would get some money, an unmotivated seller would get free advertising for his/her item ("as seen on Pawn Stars"), an attention seeker would get bragging rights for their "15 Minutes of Fame".

Also, what about residuals for reruns?

[–] antonasmodeus 9 years ago

All the so-called "sellers" on Pawn Stars are paid for their appearance by the production company, regardless if Rick & Co. pays them anything for the items they bring to the store. They also have to sign contracts promising not to sue if they aren't happy with their participation. The Gold & Silver Pawn Store may be a legitimate business but the series is pure reality TV funded by the History Channel.

[–] dubjaseff 9 years ago

Thanks for the quick info! I'll have to keep that in mind that the next time I get aggravated their actions.

[–] crowkillers 9 years ago

I am pretty sure that the people who come on the show to "sell" don't get paid anything for their appearance. I know the experts that come in don't get paid. It is just free advertisement for their business.

[–] tdl797 8 years ago

The experts don't get paid?
I have wondered if they have to pay to retain the experts to appraise for them. Otherwise, there has to be times when they call, a person is there briefly, and the appraiser is busy. I guess they simply wouldn't put these transactions on the show.