Okay maybe a poor choice of words in the headline, but one cannot argue that there is a ton of buzz surrounding Hailey Welch, the internet sensation known for her viral “Hawk Tuah” comment.
Welch, 21, became an overnight sensation after a video of her animated response to a question on Nashville’s Lower Broadway went viral. Asked for a move “that makes a man go crazy every time,” Welch enthusiastically demonstrated, “Oh, you gotta give him that hawk tuah! and spit on that thing,” captivating viewers with her unfiltered delivery. Watch below:
Seizing the moment, Welch quickly collaborated with her interviewers, Tim and Dee TV, on a merchandise line inspired by her memorable phrase.
According to Rolling Stone, Welch and company have made $65,000 since launching the line.
Memes Galore
Adding to the frenzy, memes of the “Hawk Tuah” moment began flooding social media platforms. Fans and followers quickly turned Welch’s signature move into a viral sensation, with creative and humorous takes spreading across Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. The memes, ranging from playful to downright hilarious, further cemented Welch’s status as an internet phenomenon.
A Spit-tacular Meeting with Shaq
In the heart of Nashville, Welch captured the spotlight in a unique encounter with NBA legend and DJ, Shaquille O’Neal. She joined O’Neal at Jon Bon Jovi’s newly opened JBJ’s Nashville joint. The basketball icon, who also moonlights as DJ Diesel, was spinning tracks and energizing the crowd when Welch made her grand entrance.
As the night progressed, Welch joined Shaq in the DJ booth, creating a memorable and unexpected collaboration. Welch took the mic and delivered her signature “hawk tuah,” spitting onto one of Shaq’s microphones. The crowd, already electrified by Shaq’s DJ set, erupted in cheers, fully embracing the unusual yet entertaining spectacle.
Both Welch and O’Neal seemed to enjoy their time together, sharing the experience on their social media pages, much to the delight of their fans.
Joining Zach Bryan on Stage
For Welch, this was just another chapter in her meteoric rise. Earlier in the weekend, she had been brought onstage at Zach Bryan’s concert at Nissan Stadium, where she belted out “Revival.”
In a city known for its rich musical heritage, this unlikely duo created a moment that blended the surreal with the spectacular. Shaq may be used to slam dunks and championship rings, but this weekend, he learned a new kind of fame – one that comes with a little bit of spit and a whole lot of Nashville charm.
REELated:
Gains Representation
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Welch has signed with management firm The Penthouse for representation.
“The world’s gone crazy for Hailey! I’m glad our team can help guide this rocketship. All the podcasters are right, spend five minutes with her and you’ll see why she is America’s sweetheart,” said Jonnie Forster, founder of The Penthouse, in a statement.
An excited Welch responded, “Please don’t wake me. Two weeks ago it was just my Granny and me in itty bitty Belfast, Tennessee. Then I say something silly and now my life has changed. Isn’t God great?! Can’t wait for what’s ahead.”
Additionally, she has enlisted the services of Nashville entertainment attorney Christian Barker of Christian Barker & Co. for legal representation.
“Hailey has risen to fame with her cheeky humor — known to her friends as the female Theo Vonn, but after getting to know her on a greater level, I think her small-town, grassroots story and how a chance encounter on Broadway took her on this unexpected path to stardom will resonate with millions. We are proud to represent her on this journey,” Barker said in his own statement.
What’s next for Hailey? Endorsement? To “hawk tuah” on Kroger’s produce? On Nike’s newest shoe? On a Tennesse Titans broadcaster’s microphone? We shall see.
For now, Welch’s journey from viral star to potential Hollywood figure remains a story in progress. In other words, she is “hawk tuahing” on her career.
