Colton Haynes has a bold new idea for the small screen—one that would mix high drama, queer visibility, and a whole lot of West Hollywood flair.
In a recent conversation with Gayety at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta opening, the Teen Wolf and Arrow star hinted at his desire to return to television in a fresh and fabulous way. The concept? A queer-centric spinoff of one of TV’s most iconic crime franchises.
“I want to create a show called CSI: West Hollywood,” Haynes said with a laugh. “I’m serious—it’d be fierce. All queer investigators solving fabulous crimes. Give me glitter, high heels, and murder mysteries.”
While the pitch was made with a dose of humor, it’s clear Haynes is thinking creatively about how LGBTQ+ stories can evolve in mainstream entertainment. The actor, who has built a career on genre-defining roles, is ready for his next chapter—and he’s hoping it includes storytelling that puts queer characters at the center of the action.
From Teen Wolf to Hollywood Visionary
Colton Haynes first broke into the spotlight over a decade ago, but he still looks back on Teen Wolf as the launchpad that changed his life.
“It’s crazy to think Teen Wolf was 16 years ago,” Haynes shared. “We even recently did the movie. It’s the show that never dies.”
Now, Haynes is ready to step behind the camera—and maybe into a producing or creative lead role—hoping to shape a series that reflects the vibrancy of the LGBTQ+ community. While CSI: West Hollywood is still just an idea, it taps into a broader movement of queer creatives reclaiming space in crime procedurals, thrillers, and genre TV that has long lacked LGBTQ+ representation.
Colton Haynes attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
Crime Drama, but Make It Queer
The idea of a show like CSI: West Hollywood resonates because it blends familiar television tropes with fresh representation. With crime dramas like Law & Order and CSI dominating airwaves for decades, there’s room—and growing demand—for a reinvention that reflects modern queer life.
“People want to see themselves on screen,” Haynes said. “Why not have queer detectives with backstories, relationships, heartbreak, and humor—just like everyone else?”
Haynes’ concept comes at a time when LGBTQ+ representation in media is being reexamined. Despite progress, queer characters—especially in crime and procedural dramas—often remain sidelined or tokenized. A show led by a predominantly queer cast in a campy, dramatic, and genuinely entertaining setting like West Hollywood could be the cultural reset television needs.
Fond Memories and Future Dreams
Haynes also spoke warmly about his previous roles, including his time on American Horror Story, where he formed close friendships and memorable on-set experiences.
“Working with Ryan Murphy was a dream,” he said. “It felt like an instant family. We even went on vacation together—saw Cher in Vegas. It was special.”
That sense of community is something Haynes wants to recreate in his future projects. Whether acting, producing, or both, his vision for the future of queer television includes collaborative, joyful environments—and projects that push boundaries while making viewers feel seen.
What’s Next for Colton Haynes?
While CSI: West Hollywood is still in the idea stage, Haynes has made it clear he’s serious about expanding queer narratives in television. He’s not just looking for another acting gig—he’s looking to tell new stories that reflect the community he belongs to.
As fans eagerly await his next move, Haynes is embracing a creative renaissance—one fueled by a decade of experience, Hollywood wisdom, and a desire to make TV a little more glittery, a little more inclusive, and a lot more fabulous.
“You never know what’s next,” he said with a smile. “But I’m excited to find out.”
