Tony Hawk Reflects on Tokyo Olympics Delay, Mastering the Viral ‘MilkTwist,’ and the Enduring Legacy of Pro Skater
March 24, 2020, marked a pivotal and somewhat somber day for athletes and fans worldwide, as International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach and Japan’s then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe jointly announced the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by a full year. This unprecedented delay sent ripples across the global sports community, pushing back not only the quadrennial spectacle but also the highly anticipated official debut of skateboarding as an Olympic sport. For skateboarding legend Tony Hawk, one of the most iconic and influential figures in the sport’s history, the news brought a mix of emotions. In an exclusive interview withHollywoodLife, Tony revealed that he had been slated to travel to Japan, booked for commentary duties and various appearances on behalf of NBC and the venerable Got Milk? campaign. The postponement, while disappointing, ultimately offered a unique perspective.
“I was disappointed, obviously, because there was a lot of anticipation for this debut,” Tony shared, articulating the collective sentiment among the skateboarding fraternity. The world had eagerly awaited this moment, a culmination of decades of skateboarding culture finally breaking into mainstream global sports. Tony observed the meticulous preparation of the athletes: “I could see the skaters preparing themselves mentally and physically for this grand stage.” However, as the global health crisis unfolded, his initial disappointment gave way to a profound sense of relief. “But when I heard it was postponed, I think I was more thankful just because I didn’t want it to all happen in the midst of chaos,” he explained. The integrity and celebratory spirit of the Olympics, especially for a sport making its historic entry, would have been compromised by the surrounding uncertainty and restrictions. “Even if they were doing it now and they were doing all of the sports individually, whatnot, it still wouldn’t have the same impact,” Tony concluded, underscoring the importance of a fully realized, vibrant Olympic experience for skateboarding’s momentous debut.
The Viral Sensation: Tony Hawk’s ‘MilkTwist’ Challenge
View this post on InstagramInspired by @katieledecky, I tried to do a bunch of basic tricks without spilling to little success. So I tried this as a joke… and it worked (yes, it’s real). Got McTwist? #gotmilkchallenge #gotmilk #ad
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The unexpected delay of the Tokyo Games didn’t halt Tony Hawk’s work with “Got Milk?” In fact, it provided a unique opportunity for what might be his most whimsical — yet impressively executed — trick to date: the “MilkTwist.” Towards the end of August, Tony unveiled this creative take on his legendary “McTwist,” immediately captivating audiences online. The feat involved him pouring a glass of milk, then launching himself onto a half-pipe to perform a full 540-degree aerial rotation, all while miraculously managing not to spill a single drop from the glass held precariously in his hand. The video quickly went viral, demonstrating his enduring skill and playful spirit, while also reinforcing the iconic Got Milk? slogan in a fresh, engaging way. This stunt became a global phenomenon, underscoring Tony Hawk’s ability to transcend traditional skateboarding boundaries and connect with a wider audience through innovative content.
Naturally, a trick involving milk sparked a curious question from fans and journalists alike: what type of milk was in that gravity-defying glass? Was it the rich, creamy texture of whole milk, or the lighter consistency of 2%? Tony revealed the answer to HollywoodLife with a chuckle. “I think it was whole milk,” he confessed. “I generally buy whole milk. Someone in my office bought that a gallon of it. So, I honestly, I was so fixed on the task at hand that I didn’t even look. It tastes like whole milk at the end.” This detail, seemingly minor, added another layer of authenticity and humor to the challenge, making it even more relatable and endearing to his vast following. It highlighted the sheer focus required to execute such a trick, where the type of milk became secondary to the extraordinary balance and control displayed.
The Inspiration Behind the Trick and the Unforeseen Success
The genesis of the MilkTwist was rooted in a simpler, less ambitious plan, directly inspired by Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky‘s own viral “milk challenge.” Katie had gracefully navigated a pool with a glass of chocolate milk balanced on her head, showcasing incredible poise and control. Tony initially aimed for something similar within his own domain. “I was trying to do a small routine of tricks, so I tried to do about four to five tricks in a row. All pretty basic,” he recounted. “And now it was based on watching Katie Ledecky’s video because she did such a smooth routine. Basically, she went from one end to the other. So, I thought, ‘oh, I could do that on my ramp and a few different tricks.’” He even practiced the day before with water, achieving some success. However, when it came to the actual milk, the challenge proved far more formidable. “But when it came time to do the milk, I just kept spilling enough that it was noticeable,” he explained, highlighting the unexpected difficulty presented by the liquid’s specific properties.
Facing repeated spills with simpler tricks, Tony had a spontaneous, almost jocular idea. “So, I thought, ‘well, we have something here. Why don’t we just try something ridiculous, like a McTwist, and it’ll end up flying around or splashing my face. And maybe that’s more entertaining?'” he continued. This lighthearted approach led to the accidental discovery of the MilkTwist’s feasibility. “I tested it with a glass of water, and it stayed in,” he revealed, recalling the moment of disbelief. “And I said, ‘let’s just try and see what happens.’ And I really — I had no intention of that working at all.” The success of the MilkTwist was a delightful surprise, turning a series of failed attempts at basic tricks into a viral triumph of unexpected skill and a testament to Tony Hawk’s innovative spirit, even when facing a seemingly impossible challenge.
While Katie Ledecky pulled off her stunt with a glass of chocolate milk balanced on her head, a method reminiscent of classic “Physical Challenges” from shows like *Double Dare*, the thought of such an approach for the MilkTwist never crossed Tony’s mind. When asked if he considered affixing a glass to his helmet, Tony promptly dismissed the idea. “I wouldn’t be open to keep my head in — in that straight way to keep a balance,” he told HollywoodLife. “There’s just no way.” The dynamic and often unpredictable nature of skateboarding tricks simply doesn’t allow for the static balance required for a head-mounted glass. Speaking of other daring physical challenges, Tony reflected on the closest parallel in his career to the MilkTwist: “catching a Frisbee while I skated.” This comparison provides insight into the unique set of skills required for such unconventional maneuvers in skateboarding, highlighting the precision, timing, and adaptability that define his legendary career.
The Frisbee challenge, a distant memory for Tony, involved a collaboration with a professional flying disc artist. “That happened a while ago. I did it with a Frisbee trick artist or a disc — a flying disc [artist],” he elaborated. The artist expertly manipulated the disc around Tony’s ramp, even banking it off the bottom before sending it skyward. “He actually bounced it off the bottom, and then it went up to me while I was up on the top, and I caught it,” Tony recounted. This intricate maneuver required significantly more attempts than the MilkTwist. “That took way more tries then than doing the McTwist with milk,” he admitted, detailing the persistent struggle. “I kept missing the grab. It would sort of hit me in the chest, or I would end up clutching my hand too late because I’m trying to focus on skating more than the catch.” This anecdote vividly illustrates the distinct challenges each trick presented, showcasing Tony Hawk’s dedication to mastering unconventional tasks beyond standard skateboarding maneuvers.
A Decades-Long Partnership: Tony Hawk and ‘Got Milk?’
Tony Hawk’s decades-long affiliation with the “Got Milk?” campaign perhaps endowed him with a touch of good fortune when it came to the MilkTwist. His partnership with the iconic milk advocacy campaign dates back to 1998, a testament to his enduring appeal and the campaign’s clever integration of celebrity endorsements. “I was featured in the original ‘Got Milk?’ campaign with the milk mustache,” he recalled during the interview, referring to one of the most recognizable advertising campaigns in history. The partnership has been a smooth ride ever since, intertwining his image with the healthful benefits of milk. “Then, ‘Got Milk’ came around last year and said we’d like to do something going forward. And we were going to do something surrounding the Olympics. But obviously, that got postponed,” he explained, highlighting the initial plans that shifted due to the global circumstances. This long-standing collaboration speaks volumes about Tony’s consistent brand image and his ability to remain relevant across different generations and platforms.
While the Tokyo 2020 games are now slated for 2021, aspiring Olympic skateboarders continue their rigorous training, perfecting their routines for the sport’s grand debut. In the interim, Tony Hawk encourages everyone to partake in the engaging #GotMilkChallenge. He extends an open invitation to all, not just professional athletes or celebrities, to try their hand at the fun and challenging trick. “I would like to see anyone try it. Not just celebrities or sports figures, but anyone who wants to do this sort of thing,” Tony urged. His only practical advice for those attempting the balancing act? “My only advice is to do it with a plastic cup,” he recommended, prioritizing safety and minimizing potential messes. When asked if he would challenge his good friend Jack Black— whom Tony publicly thanked in an August 28 Instagram video for “helping us launch [Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2]”— to a similar milk-related stunt, Tony’s enthusiasm was palpable. “I would love to see how Tenacious D incorporates a glass of milk into their performance. That would be a treat,” he mused, envisioning a uniquely entertaining collaboration with the comedic rock duo.
The Cultural Phenomenon: ‘Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2’ Remaster
Beyond his viral skateboarding tricks, Tony Hawk also saw a monumental success with the release of the HD remaster of the iconic 1999 and 2000 originals: *Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2*. Activision and Vicarious Visions launched the game on September 4, quickly garnering rave reviews from both long-time gamers and devoted *Pro Skater* enthusiasts. To assert that the initial *Pro Skater* games—and their legendary soundtracks—were seminal pieces of GenX, Millennial, and Xennial pop culture would be a considerable understatement. For an entire generation, these games served as a groundbreaking introduction to the world of punk rock and alternative music, exposing countless players to bands like the Dead Kennedys, The Suicide Machines, The Vandals, and Lagwagon, among many others. The games were not merely about skateboarding; they were cultural touchstones that shaped musical tastes and solidified a rebellious, energetic aesthetic for millions.
Among the myriad of influential bands featured, Goldfinger has become virtually synonymous with the game series, primarily due to their electrifying song “Superman” being featured prominently in the very first installment. Ever since its debut, fans have inextricably linked Goldfinger’s energetic ska-punk anthem with the high-flying antics of *Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater*. This association is so strong that *The Hard Times*, the renowned punk/metal satire publication, playfully ran a 2019 article titled “Goldfinger Patiently Awaits Reboot of Tony Hawk Franchise,” perfectly capturing the sentiment. The cultural impact of this connection was vividly demonstrated when, after Activision announced the remastered *Pro Skater 1 + 2* in May, Goldfinger’s “Superman” experienced an astonishing 800% spike in daily YouTube views, as reported by Loudwire. Given this overwhelming fan response and the song’s integral role in the series’ identity, its inclusion in the remastered game was not just a given, but an absolute necessity for the remake’s success and authenticity.
Does this deep-seated, mutually beneficial relationship mean that Goldfinger sends Tony Hawk a colossal “Thank You” card every year? Tony laughed at the playful suggestion, but quickly pivoted to expressing his own profound gratitude for Goldfinger’s consistent support and enthusiastic representation of the brand. “I have seen interviews with them, and they are very thankful,” he acknowledged, highlighting the band’s appreciation for the exposure the game brought them. “They are always very cooperative if we want to use the song for anything.” Tony further reflected on how this collaboration could have taken a very different turn. “That type of thing could have gone the other way, where it became so popular that they held onto it, and they won’t allow anyone to use it or unless you pay an exorbitant fee.” However, Goldfinger has consistently remained incredibly gracious and accommodating. “And they’ve always been very cool about it. ‘Yeah, man, go for it! We’re celebrating it too!'” he quoted, emphasizing the shared excitement and respect that has characterized their enduring connection.
Tony Hawk also played a crucial role in curating the distinctive soundscapes of the *Pro Skater* series, ensuring a blend of his personal influences and contemporary tracks. “In the early series, I was the one that was bringing in the old school punk rock element to it,” Tony explained, detailing his active involvement. “So when you hear stuff like Dead Kennedys or Primus or Black Flag, that was more my influence.” This infusion of classic punk provided the games with an authentic, raw energy that resonated deeply with players. Alongside these foundational influences, the soundtracks also featured newer, emerging bands of the era. “And then the newer bands as well at the time, newer like Goldfinger, like Millencolin. That was more Activision’s side,” he clarified, acknowledging the collaborative effort in shaping the game’s musical identity. For the much-anticipated remastered version, the approach was a harmonious mix of both perspectives. “For this version, it was a mix of both, and I strongly insisted that there were a few new bands included like American Nightmare, Rough Francis, Viagra Boys. Those were all my choices,” Tony proudly stated, demonstrating his continued commitment to introducing new and exciting talent to a wide audience through the beloved game series.
A Friend’s Frightening Battle: Mark Mothersbaugh and COVID-19
While Devo’s iconic track “Uncontrollable Urge” was not part of the *Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2* soundtrack (it appeared in 2010’s *Tony Hawk: Shred*), a more personal and alarming connection exists between Tony Hawk and the band’s co-founder, Mark Mothersbaugh. Just before Tony’s conversation with HollywoodLife, distressing news emerged: Mark Mothersbaugh, one of the brilliant masterminds behind DEVO and a close friend of Tony’s, had contracted COVID-19 and came perilously close to death. This was a particularly poignant moment for Tony, as he and Mark had been actively collaborating on an exciting stage adaptation of Nick Hornby’s acclaimed novel, *Slam*. Throughout Mark’s harrowing fight for his life, Tony remained in constant and anxious contact with the Devo icon, a testament to their deep bond and shared creative endeavors.
“I was definitely in close touch when that was all happening,” Tony confirmed to HollywoodLife, his voice tinged with the lingering concern he felt during that terrifying period. “And it was frightening. It was just so unfortunate because he was, you know, obviously, he’s more at risk.” Mark, known for his cautious approach to health, had been diligently isolating. “He was staying away from the crowds. He was in Palm Springs with his family,” Tony explained, highlighting the unexpected nature of his infection. The incident served as a stark reminder of the virus’s insidious reach. “And as the [Black Lives Matter] protest starts near his studio in L.A., he went home to just pull some stuff out of the studio. And because he did that – that’s how he caught the virus.” The severity of Mark’s condition was deeply alarming: “And it was very, very scary. He was on a ventilator for over 10 days,” Tony recounted, emphasizing the critical state his friend was in, and the global anxiety that permeated 2020.
Thankfully – and in a rare beacon of hope amidst the challenging landscape of 2020 – this harrowing story culminated in a joyful resolution. Mark Mothersbaugh, demonstrating incredible resilience and strength, was able to pull through his severe illness and successfully beat back the ravages of the disease. His recovery offered a much-needed moment of relief and gratitude, not only for his close friends like Tony Hawk but for fans worldwide who admired his contributions to music and culture.
For more insights into the viral MilkTwist, the anticipated Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and Tony Hawk’s broader reflections on his enduring legacy, watch the full interview above.