The "Hawk Tuah" Meme: Origin, Jump to Fame, Controversy, and Logical Implication

The cyberspace has been abuzz with the " Hawk Tuah " meme, an onomatopoeic catchphrase that originated from a viral YouTube TV post in June 2024.

The “Hawk Twah” meme has taken the internet by storm, thanks to a viral YouTube TV post from June 2024. The phrase, which mimics the sound of spitting on a penis during fellatio, has spawned countless remixes, remakes, and merchandise.

But where did the “Hawk Twah” meme come from, and who is the woman behind it? Here’s a closer look at the origin story, rise to fame, and controversy surrounding the meme.

The “Hawk Twah” meme originated with a street interview conducted by Tim & Dee TV, a vox pop YouTube channel, in the Broadway district of Nashville, Tennessee. When asked about what makes a man go crazy in bed, Haliey Welch, a young American woman, responded with the catchphrase. The video, which was uploaded to YouTube on June 11, 2024, quickly went viral, receiving millions of views across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

Welch, who became known as the “Hawk Twah Girl,” gained a massive social media following and media attention after the video went viral. She created an Instagram account, set up a company, and registered several trademarks related to the phrase. She also began selling merchandise themed on the phrase and making paid appearances. On August 15, 2024, she threw the ceremonial first pitch of a New York Mets game and launched a podcast, “Talk Twah,” under the Betr media company co-founded by Jake Paul.

However, the virality of the “Hawk Twah” meme has not been without its share of controversy. Tim & Dee TV, the creators of the original video, have expressed disappointment and frustration over not receiving recognition for Welch’s fame. Additionally, a recent lawsuit has been filed against Welch for the improper promotion and sale of a cryptocurrency meme coin called the “Hawk Token” (3).

The “Hawk Twah” meme has sparked conversation about the power of social media and the rapid spread of internet trends. It has also raised questions about the ownership and monetization of viral content. As the internet continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the implications of viral fame and the importance of crediting creators for their work.