5 Surprising Facts About Kelby Blackwell, The Man Who Captured The 'Hawk Tuah Girl' Hailey Welch's Heart

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The question of "Who is Hailey Welch's boyfriend?" has been the most persistent mystery surrounding the internet's reigning 'Hawk Tuah Girl' since her explosive viral fame. As of late December 2025, the social media star has officially moved past the speculation and hard-launched her long-term partner, revealing a surprisingly private relationship with a man who prefers life outside the spotlight: Kelby Blackwell. This deep dive uncovers the details of their unique romance, the man behind the affectionate nickname 'Pookie,' and how they navigate the intense pressure of sudden internet celebrity.

The revelation came directly from the source, with Hailey Welch introducing Kelby on her popular Talk Tuah podcast. Their relationship offers a fascinating contrast: a high-energy, viral internet personality dating a down-to-earth Tennessee plumber. Despite initial rumors and the intense scrutiny that follows her every move, the couple has confirmed they are stronger than ever, addressing recent breakup speculation head-on and sharing the intimate details of their life together in Nashville. The story of Hailey and Kelby is a modern romance success story in the digital age.

Haliey Aliene Welch: Full Biography and Profile

Haliey Aliene Welch, known globally as the "Hawk Tuah Girl," is an American internet personality who became an overnight sensation following a viral street interview. Her fame has since propelled her into a successful career as a social media influencer and podcast host.

  • Full Name: Haliey Aliene Welch
  • Nickname: Hawk Tuah Girl, Hailey
  • Date of Birth: July 12, 2002
  • Age (as of late 2025): 23 years old
  • Birthplace: Belfast, Tennessee, United States
  • Zodiac Sign: Cancer
  • Career: Internet Personality, Social Media Influencer, Entrepreneur, Podcast Host (Talk Tuah)
  • Claim to Fame: Viral street interview in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2024 where she coined the phrase "Hawk Tuah."
  • Current Residence: Nashville, Tennessee

Welch’s rapid rise to fame began with a single, unscripted moment that turned her into an instant internet meme. Capitalizing on this viral moment, she quickly launched her own platform, the Talk Tuah podcast, and has leveraged her notoriety into various business ventures, cementing her status as a legitimate social media star. Her ability to pivot from a viral clip to a sustainable career is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit.

1. Kelby Blackwell is a Private, Blue-Collar Tennessee Plumber

The biggest surprise for fans expecting a fellow influencer or celebrity was the reveal of Kelby Blackwell’s profession and lifestyle. Kelby is a dedicated plumber from Tennessee, a fact that highlights the significant contrast between his quiet, blue-collar life and Hailey's high-profile digital world.

This difference in their careers is a central theme in their relationship. Kelby has expressed a clear preference for privacy, admitting that the sudden, intense scrutiny that came with dating the "Hawk Tuah Girl" was a major adjustment. While Hailey thrives on the energy of her audience and the creation of content, Kelby represents a grounded, stable influence. This dynamic is what many fans believe makes their relationship so genuine and enduring.

Kelby's presence offers a necessary anchor for Hailey, who has experienced a whirlwind of fame, controversy, and career milestones since her explosive viral moment in 2024. His background in a traditional trade keeps their life balanced, providing a retreat from the often-frenzied pace of the social media industry.

2. He is Affectionately Nicknamed 'Pookie'

Before his identity was formally revealed, Hailey Welch referred to her mystery man simply as "Pookie." This affectionate nickname quickly became a point of curiosity and speculation among her millions of followers.

The name 'Pookie' has stuck, and Kelby is often referred to by this moniker in the media and by Hailey herself. On their podcast, they have shared that the nickname is a term of endearment that predates her fame, adding a layer of authenticity to their romance. The use of 'Pookie' helped Hailey maintain a degree of privacy for Kelby during the initial stages of her celebrity, allowing him to adjust to the attention on his own terms before the official 'hard launch' of their relationship.

This careful management of their public profile demonstrates a mutual respect for Kelby's desire to keep his personal life separate from the Hawk Tuah phenomenon, a key factor in maintaining their healthy relationship amidst the chaos of online fame.

3. Their Relationship Has Faced and Survived Breakup Rumors

As is common with high-profile relationships in the digital sphere, Hailey and Kelby’s romance has been the target of intense speculation, including recent breakup rumors. Hailey Welch has been proactive in addressing these rumors, particularly those that circulated in late 2025.

Hailey took to her platform to clarify her relationship status, confirming that she and Kelby Blackwell are still very much together and happy. She has candidly discussed the emotional toll that continuous public scrutiny and false reports take on a private relationship.

The couple has used the Talk Tuah podcast as a safe space to discuss the challenges of dating in the spotlight. Kelby has openly spoken about feelings of jealousy and discomfort with the attention Hailey receives, but they both emphasize that open communication and a commitment to a healthy relationship are what keep them strong.

4. Kelby and Hailey Have Been Dating Since Before Her Viral Fame

Contrary to the belief that Hailey Welch picked up a new partner after she became famous, the couple's relationship predates the "Hawk Tuah Girl" viral moment of 2024.

Hailey and Kelby have been dating for a significant period, with some sources indicating they began their relationship in the months leading up to her unexpected rise to internet stardom. This timeline is crucial, as it suggests their connection is rooted in a genuine bond formed when Hailey was just a regular person, not a global meme.

This foundation has likely served as a protective shield against the pressures of her sudden celebrity. Kelby knew Haliey Aliene Welch before she became the 'Hawk Tuah Girl,' giving their relationship a depth that many celebrity romances lack. They have shared details about their journey, including how Kelby supported her through the initial shock and subsequent career boom of her viral fame.

5. The Relationship Was Revealed on Her 'Talk Tuah' Podcast

The official reveal, or 'hard launch,' of Kelby Blackwell was a highly anticipated event that took place on Hailey’s own platform. She chose her Talk Tuah podcast as the venue to introduce her boyfriend to the world, giving fans an intimate and unfiltered look at their dynamic.

The episode featuring Kelby was a massive success, satisfying the curiosity of millions of followers who had been trying to piece together the details of her private life. During the conversation, the couple discussed everything from how they met to how they handle the challenges of Hailey’s career as a social media influencer.

By using her own podcast for the reveal, Hailey maintained control over the narrative, ensuring that the first impression of Kelby Blackwell was authentic and on their own terms. This strategic move solidified the Talk Tuah podcast as the definitive source for updates on the life of the Hawk Tuah Girl and her beloved "Pookie."

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