We all know Hailey Welch—better known as the Hawk Tuah Girl—went viral faster than you can say “spit on that thang.” One minute, she’s a factory worker winding springs in Belfast, Tennessee, and the next, she’s selling merch and fielding reality TV offers like a seasoned Kardashian. But now that her viral fame is a thing of the past (well, sort of), the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for the Hawk Tuah Girl?
Is she going to stay in the spotlight, or fade into the background like every other viral star who couldn’t parlay their 15 minutes into something more? Spoiler alert: Hailey’s not planning to go anywhere anytime soon. In fact, she’s got some big plans in the works, and let’s just say the internet isn’t ready for the next phase of Hawk Tuah.
Reality TV: The Hawk Tuah Chronicles?
You can’t mention viral fame in 2024 without reality TV immediately popping up. It’s the bread and butter of internet sensations who want to turn a few million views into a regular paycheck. And surprise, surprise—Hailey has already been approached by more than a few networks who want to put her chaotic Southern energy on TV screens across the nation.
According to insiders, Hailey is currently in talks to star in her own reality show that would follow her life post-viral fame. Imagine this: a show about a small-town girl trying to navigate newfound stardom, run a burgeoning merch empire, and figure out what the heck “Hawk Tuah” actually means. Throw in a few quirky family members (we’re looking at you, Grandma), some fan interactions, and you’ve got yourself a hit.
Reality TV producer Amanda Shore, who worked on viral sensation “The Circle”, commented, “People love authenticity and unpredictability. Hailey’s got both in spades. She’s charming, funny, and completely unfiltered, which is exactly what reality TV needs right now.”
It wouldn’t be the first time a viral star transitioned to TV stardom. Remember Honey Boo Boo? Hailey could very well be the next Southern queen to grace our screens, dropping Hawk Tuah gems left and right.
Podcasting: Hawk Tuah in Your Earbuds?
Apparently, one viral video isn’t enough for Hailey. With the world begging for more of her witty banter, Hailey is also eyeing the podcasting world. After all, why just sell T-shirts and hoodies when you can spit some Hawk Tuah wisdom into the ears of adoring fans every week?
According to sources close to Hailey, she’s been toying with the idea of launching a Hawk Tuah-themed podcast, where she talks about life, viral fame, and whatever pops into her head—because let’s be honest, that’s the kind of chaotic energy we’re all here for. Spotify’s 2024 podcast trend report revealed that comedy podcasts are among the most popular genres, and Hailey’s unfiltered takes on just about anything would fit right in. It wouldn’t be surprising if she secured some lucrative sponsorship deals along the way, either. After all, there’s nothing more marketable than a viral sensation who can talk.
Hailey teased the idea in a recent Instagram post, writing, “Y’all think I should start a podcast? I’ve got a lot to say… even if it don’t make sense half the time!” And knowing Hailey, making sense is optional.
More Merch: The Hawk Tuah Empire Expands
If you thought Hailey’s viral fame was limited to catchphrases and memes, think again. The Hawk Tuah merch empire is growing, and Hailey isn’t done milking this cash cow. After selling out her original line of “Spit on That Thang” hoodies and Hawk Tuah mugs, Hailey is planning to drop even more merch, including limited-edition fanny packs, stickers, and yes, even a Hawk Tuah swimsuit for those who like their summer attire with a side of absurdity.
Hailey’s team reports that the new line is set to launch this fall, just in time for the holiday shopping season. And if the previous merch drops are any indication, you’ll need to set your alarms if you want to get your hands on the latest Hawk Tuah gear.
In a world where people are willing to pay for anything that makes them feel part of a viral moment, Hailey’s merch game is on point. According to Business Insider, viral merch sales from internet personalities like Hailey have grown by 60% in the last two years. It’s clear that Hailey’s not just a viral star—she’s a smart businesswoman who knows how to capitalize on her fame.
Collaborations: Hawk Tuah x… Who?
Hailey’s future also includes some collaborations that are sure to make the internet explode all over again. While details are still under wraps, rumors are swirling about a potential collab with other viral stars like TikTok queen Addison Rae and even YouTube sensation MrBeast. Could we see Hawk Tuah Girl in one of MrBeast’s wild giveaways, maybe having to “spit on that thang” to win $100,000? The possibilities are endless, and quite frankly, ridiculous—but that’s exactly what makes it perfect.
Marketing expert Jonah Berger, author of Contagious: Why Things Catch On, weighed in on the potential collaborations, saying, “When two viral forces come together, it amplifies their reach and keeps both stars relevant. For Hailey, it’s a smart move to stay in the spotlight and keep the Hawk Tuah momentum going.”
With her growing fanbase and continued popularity, we wouldn’t be surprised to see Hailey collaborating with major brands too. Imagine a Hawk Tuah x Crocs collection, or maybe even her own line of Southern-inspired beauty products. The sky’s the limit for someone who can sell out a T-shirt that doesn’t even make sense.
A Book Deal?
Yes, you read that right. In true celebrity fashion, Hailey is reportedly considering writing a book. And while it may not be a Pulitzer contender, it would be an instant bestseller in the viral star genre. Word on the street is that Hailey wants to write about her journey from factory worker to viral queen, with all the highs, lows, and unexpected moments in between.
She teased the possibility of a book during a recent TikTok Live, saying, “Y’all keep asking me what Hawk Tuah means. Maybe I’ll write a book about it—if I can figure it out myself!”
Given that people are still buying merch featuring a phrase that no one understands, a book from Hailey would no doubt fly off the shelves. Publishing expert Sarah Jacobs commented, “Celebrity memoirs, especially from viral stars, are trending right now. Fans love getting an inside look into their lives, and Hailey’s unique story would definitely resonate with readers.”
Hailey’s Here to Stay
If you thought Hailey Welch was going to fade into the background like so many viral stars before her, think again. With reality TV, a podcast, more merch, and potential collaborations all in the works, Hailey’s not just surviving her viral moment—she’s thriving in it.
“I never expected any of this,” Hailey recently said in an interview. “But I’m just riding the wave and seeing where it takes me.” And honestly? That’s the exact kind of unbothered attitude we’d expect from the Hawk Tuah Girl.
So, what’s next for Hailey Welch? Whatever it is, you can bet it’ll be chaotic, unexpected, and absolutely entertaining—just like her viral rise to fame. Keep an eye out, because Hawk Tuah isn’t going anywhere.
