As a born Beta Werewolf in the centuries-old Hale Pack, Derek grew up knowing about the supernatural and embracing his lycanthropy. Derek was a tall, muscular, and handsome man with black hair, blue-green eyes, and olive skin. And he typically had either facial stubble or a scruffy beard. He was also notable for having a black triskelion tattooed between his shoulder blades.  In his full wolf form, Derek's fur was completely black. Derek was a member of the Hale Family and the McCall Pack.