Tim & Dee TV, a duo known for their street interviews, have voiced their frustration over not receiving proper credit for the viral “Hawk Tuah” video featuring Haliey Welch. The video, where Welch humorously describes a provocative move in bed, gained massive traction on TikTok. While Welch has capitalized on her newfound fame, even trademarking the phrase “Hawk Tuah” and launching a merchandise line, Tim Dickerson and DeArius Marlow, the creators behind the video, feel sidelined.
Tim & Dee, who met in college and have been creating content together since 2021, are frustrated that their contributions are overlooked. Despite having a significant online presence prior to the viral clip, they believe their role in Welch’s rise to fame is undervalued. Marlow expressed his sentiments to The New York Times, emphasizing that Welch’s notoriety stemmed from their video. “At the end of the day, nobody would know who she was if we didn’t bring it to light and post it,” he stated.
The pair’s content often features lighthearted and humorous street interviews with intoxicated individuals, capturing spontaneous and candid moments. Despite their success, Tim & Dee face ongoing challenges with copyright issues. They’ve filed around 50 copyright claims against individuals and entities that have removed their watermark and re-uploaded the video, further compounding their frustrations.
Welch, on the other hand, has enjoyed significant benefits from the viral clip. She has appeared on various podcasts, declined an offer from Playboy, and continues to build her brand around the “Hawk Tuah” phrase. The duo’s struggle for recognition highlights the complexities of viral fame and the often overlooked contributions of content creators.
While Tim & Dee’s work remains part-time—Dickerson is a day trader and football coach, and Marlow is a videographer—they continue to produce content and advocate for their rightful recognition. Their story underscores the challenges faced by creators in the digital age, where credit and compensation can be elusive despite substantial contributions.
