Jeff Davis: The Creative Force Behind Criminal Minds and Teen Wolf
Jeff Davis has established himself as a versatile powerhouse in the television industry, blending psychological tension with supernatural horror. From the procedural intensity of crime dramas to the atmospheric world of teenage werewolves, Davis has consistently demonstrated an ability to craft narratives that capture wide audiences.
The Beginnings of a Hit Career
Davis first made a significant mark on the industry in 2003 when he sold a script to CBS Television. This script laid the foundation for the hit series Criminal Minds. During the show's inaugural season, Davis served as a co-executive producer. The series was a collaborative production between CBS Studios and 20th Television (which operated through ABC Signature until 2025).
Reimagining Teen Wolf
In 2011, Davis transitioned into the realm of supernatural drama when he began discussions with MTV to reboot the 1980s comedy Teen Wolf, originally starring Michael J. Fox. Driven by a lifelong passion for the horror genre, Davis took on the roles of show creator, head writer, and executive producer, becoming the primary creative force behind the series.
His approach to storytelling was heavily influenced by masters of suspense and horror, specifically writers Stephen King and Thomas Harris. Additionally, Davis has cited The X-Files, Cheers, and Moonlighting as influential works that shaped his creative perspective.
Expanding Horizons and Production Ventures
As Teen Wolf grew, Davis managed a demanding schedule, splitting his time between Los Angeles and Atlanta, Georgia, where the production was filmed. During this period, he sought to expand his portfolio by adapting the Swedish horror film Let the Right One In for American television.
The adaptation was initially sold to the A&E channel before being ordered to pilot by TNT. Although the pilot was filmed in Vancouver, TNT ultimately decided not to move forward with a full series. Despite this, Davis continued to grow his business footprint, signing a deal with MTV Entertainment Studios in 2021 through his own production company, First Cause.
Key Facts
- Major Credits: Co-executive producer of Criminal Minds (Season 1) and creator/showrunner of Teen Wolf.
- Literary Influences: Stephen King and Thomas Harris.
- Production Company: First Cause.
- Industry Partners: CBS Television, MTV Entertainment Studios, and 20th Television.
- Genre Focus: Strong preference for horror and psychological thrillers.
| Year | Project/Event | Role/Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Criminal Minds | Sold script; Co-Executive Producer (Season 1) |
| 2011 | Teen Wolf | Creator, Head Writer, and Executive Producer |
| Post-Teen Wolf S2 | Let the Right One In | Pilot produced in Vancouver; not picked up by TNT |
| 2021 | MTV Entertainment Studios | Signed deal via First Cause production company |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hit series did Jeff Davis help launch in 2003?
Jeff Davis sold the script that became Criminal Minds to CBS Television and served as a co-executive producer during the first season.
What influenced Jeff Davis's work on Teen Wolf?
Davis's work was influenced by his love for the horror genre and the writing of Stephen King and Thomas Harris, as well as shows like The X-Files, Cheers, and Moonlighting.
Did the adaptation of Let the Right One In become a series?
No. While a pilot was filmed in Vancouver for TNT, the network decided not to proceed with a full series.
What is the name of Jeff Davis's production company?
His production company is called First Cause, which he used to sign a deal with MTV Entertainment Studios in 2021.
Where was Teen Wolf filmed?
The series was filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, leading Davis to split his time between there and Los Angeles.