
A model-turned-actor who navigated teen idol fame to become an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility in mainstream television.
Colton Haynes played Jackson, a lacrosse-playing werewolf on 'Teen Wolf,' then portrayed Roy Harper, a brooding archer on 'Arrow.' These roles made him a fixture of youth-oriented television. Earlier, his all-American looks landed him campaigns for major brands as a teenage model. In 2016, he came out publicly, shifting his public role from pin-up to advocate for mental health and identity. He has since taken on more nuanced roles and spoken candidly about the pressure of fame and navigating sexuality in the entertainment industry. Haynes was born in 1988.
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Colton was born in 1988, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
The biggest hits of 1988
#1 Movie
Rain Man
Best Picture
Rain Man
#1 TV Show
The Cosby Show
The world at every milestone
Pan Am Flight 103 bombed over Lockerbie
European Union officially established
September 11 attacks transform the world
Indian Ocean tsunami kills over 230,000
Twitter launches; Pluto reclassified as dwarf planet
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Royal wedding of Harry and Meghan; Parkland shooting
He was discovered as a model at age 15 while shopping at the mall in his hometown in Kansas.
He is an accomplished painter and has sold his artwork.
He left 'Arrow' during its third season to seek treatment for anxiety.
“I spent more time hating myself than loving myself, and that's something I never want to do again.”