Sophia Ross, the Hooters waitress who gained significant attention for her playful flirting with a police officer during a DUI arrest, openly expresses her desire to serve as a prime example of what not to do in similar situations. She hopes that by sharing her story, others can learn valuable lessons from her experience, particularly regarding personal responsibility and the consequences of reckless behavior.

Sophia, who became an internet sensation after police bodycam footage captured her humorously calling an officer “daddy” and playfully suggesting a kiss, reflects on her behavior during the November incident. She acknowledges that while her actions may not have drastically differed from her sober self, she is now acutely aware of how foolish she appeared. This incident has prompted her to reflect on the importance of composure, especially in serious situations.

In an exclusive conversation with the internet’s latest viral star of 2025, Sophia mentions that she has been likened to the infamous “Hawk Tuah” girl, Haliey Welch. She embraces this comparison and sees it as a testament to her newfound fame, recognizing how both women have captured public attention in their own unique ways.

Sophia appreciates the comparisons drawn to Haliey Welch, recognizing that there are worse individuals to be likened to. She describes Welch as a “legend” and admires her ability to remain authentic amidst the whirlwind of fame and public scrutiny.

The Hooters waitress expresses her admiration for Haliey Welch, who transformed an embarrassing moment into a thriving brand, complete with podcasts, merchandise, and much more. Sophia is inspired by Welch’s journey and hopes to channel her own experience into something meaningful and impactful.

Sophia recognizes the striking similarities between her story and Haliey Welch’s, as both women were captured on camera displaying outrageous behavior during a night out, leading to their rise as internet sensations. This parallel has sparked conversations about the impact of social media on personal narratives and public perception.

In her reflections, Ross candidly admits that her friends often describe her as someone who tends to approach life with a light-hearted attitude, rarely taking things too seriously. However, she is now acutely aware of the gravity of her situation, especially after being restrained and placed in handcuffs by a Sarasota police officer. Sophia reveals that she was grappling with personal issues that contributed to her erratic behavior that night, leading to her unfortunate arrest.

Sophia encourages viewers to watch the clips of her incident, as she is striving to maintain a positive outlook amid the surge of attention. She expresses her willingness to let people find humor in her situation, recognizing that she has learned significant life lessons from this experience, which she believes has fundamentally changed her perspective on life.