Colton Haynes is not only eager to start a new chapter in his career, but the actor is also ready to let us in on more of his personal story.
The Arrow star, who recently walked away from the hit TV show and Teen Wolf, has come out as gay. During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Haynes touched on a previous social media post that put his sexuality in question.
A Tumblr post in January regarding old racy modeling photos sparked speculation after a fan commented on Haynes' "secret gay past." Haynes coyly responded to the media frenzy with, "Was it a secret?"
His response was taken as his confirmation of being gay, however that wasn't case. At least, not at the time. "It was a complete shock. I wasn't ready to be back in the headlines," he said.
"I should have made a comment or a statement, but I just wasn't ready. I didn't feel like I owed anyone anything. I think in due time, everyone has to make those decisions when they're ready, and I wasn't yet. But I felt like I was letting people down by not coming forward with the rest of what I should have said."
Following the reports, the 27-year-old star checked into rehab for anxiety and returned to the hospital frequently over the next three months.
According to the interview, Haynes had never publicly addressed his sexuality, but has been out for most of his life. Those closest to the actor, from his family and friends to his cast members and Hollywood bosses, already knew.
It wasn't until now that Haynes felt ready and willing to talk about sexuality with the general public. "I'd go home and I was still acting," he admitted. "People who are so judgmental about those who are gay or different don't realize that acting 24 hours a day is the most exhausting thing in the world."
Regardless, the path Colton took ultimately brought him here, and here is a much better place for the young star. "I'm happier than I've ever been, and healthier than I've ever been, and that's what I care about."
Haynes tweeted the article and told fans, "I believe in livin life to the fullest & takin control of your life story. More to come."