Hailey Welch, widely recognized as the “Hawk Tuah Girl,” has become a notable figure in the realm of internet personalities. Her unexpected rise to fame began in June 2024 with a viral street interview, and since then, she has adeptly leveraged her newfound popularity into various ventures, amassing a significant net worth.
The Viral Moment
In June 2024, Hailey Welch participated in a street interview with the YouTube channel Tim & Dee TV in Nashville, Tennessee. When asked, “What’s one move in bed that makes a man go crazy every time?” her candid and humorous response, “You gotta give ’em that ‘hawk tuah’ and spit on that thang,” quickly went viral. The phrase “hawk tuah” became a trending meme across social media platforms, propelling Welch into the spotlight.
Monetizing the Fame
Capitalizing on her viral status, Welch launched a merchandise line featuring the “hawk tuah” catchphrase. In collaboration with Tennessee-based Fathead Threads, she sold over 2,000 units, generating approximately $65,000 in revenue within the first two weeks.
Additionally, Welch signed with The Penthouse agency, enhancing her public profile and securing paid appearances. She also made notable public appearances, including throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a New York Mets game and joining comedian Shaquille O’Neal during a DJ set in Nashville.
Podcasting and Digital Ventures
In September 2024, Welch launched the “Talk Tuah” podcast under Jake Paul’s media company, Betr. The podcast features interviews with various celebrities and has garnered a substantial following.
Further expanding her digital footprint, Welch introduced “Pookie Tools,” an AI-powered dating advice app developed in partnership with Ultimate AI Studio.
Cryptocurrency Controversy
In December 2024, Welch ventured into the cryptocurrency market by launching the $HAWK token on the Solana blockchain. The token initially surged to a market capitalization of nearly $500 million but experienced a dramatic decline shortly after launch. This led to accusations of a “pump and dump” scheme. However, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) later found no evidence of fraud.
Estimated Net Worth
As of May 2025, Hailey Welch’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $500,000. This valuation encompasses her earnings from merchandise sales, podcasting, public appearances, and digital ventures. While some sources have reported higher figures, the $500,000 estimate is widely recognized.
Conclusion
Hailey Welch’s journey from a viral internet sensation to a multifaceted entrepreneur underscores the potential of digital platforms in shaping modern careers. Her ability to adapt and diversify her ventures has solidified her position in the entertainment industry, and her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring content creators seeking to capitalize on viral moments.