On social media, many viewers were stunned as Hailey Welch addressed the cryptocurrency controversy and legal investigation after facing backlash.
Haliey Welch’s viral fame and cryptocurrency venture
Haliey Welch, known as the “Hawk Tuah Girl,” gained sudden internet fame in 2024. Her unexpected rise came after a viral street interview where she gave a NSFW response.
She quickly capitalized on her popularity, growing her social media following and launching an online brand. This success led to a podcast with Jake Paul’s Betr media company and a clothing line.
The launch and collapse of Welch’s cryptocurrency
Welch later introduced a meme coin called $HAWK. She claimed she created it to prevent scammers from launching fake coins under her name.
The cryptocurrency surged in value, reaching a $490 million market cap, according to Crypto Times. However, within hours, its value crashed by over 90%, as reported by Bloomberg Law.
Many investors alleged they lost significant amounts of money, with some claiming to have lost their life savings. Disgruntled buyers accused Welch of misleading them and sought legal action.
SEC investigation and legal outcome
Following the controversy, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) launched an investigation into the coin’s sudden collapse. Despite speculation, Welch’s legal team has confirmed that she will not face any charges.
James Sallah, Welch’s attorney, stated:
“The SEC closed the investigation without making any findings against, or seeking any monetary sanctions from, Haliey. Because they did not bring any action against her, there are no restrictions on what she can do in regards to crypto or securities in the future.”
Welch’s future plans after the controversy
Sources speaking to TMZ revealed Welch is relieved to put the controversy behind her. Reports suggest she may even have a documentary in development about her experience.
However, Welch allegedly has no plans to venture into cryptocurrency or meme coins again.
On March 25, Welch released a video addressing her absence from social media after the cryptocurrency fallout. Many of her supporters welcomed her return, with some calling it “the return of the Queen.”
Welch’s comeback video sparks online frenzy
On March 25, Welch made a dramatic return to Instagram with a video captioned, “What’d I miss?”
The video begins with her pretending to be asleep while voiceovers claim she has died. She then wakes up and humorously addresses other rumors, including speculation that she is pregnant.
She playfully showcases a faux baby bump while rinsing an infant’s sippy cup.
She also jokes about being jailed, using a clip of Joe Rogan asking, “What’s going on with that ‘Hawk Tuah’ chick? She going to jail?”
Additionally, she announced that she will be the subject of an upcoming documentary produced by Emmy-winning Bungalow Media + Entertainment.
According to the official description, the documentary will explore Welch’s rapid rise to internet fame. It will highlight how a single viral moment turned a small-town woman into a global phenomenon.
As Welch moves forward, she remains a polarizing figure. Whether she can rebuild her reputation after this controversy remains to be seen.