A New Chapter After This Is Us
Justin Hartley, beloved for his role as Kevin Pearson on NBC’s This Is Us, has officially turned the page with his latest hit, CBS’s Tracker. Premiering to strong ratings and enthusiastic fan reactions, Hartley plays Colter Shaw, a rugged and resourceful reward seeker who travels the country helping people — for a price. The role marks a significant shift from the emotional drama of his previous work, showcasing his versatility and action chops.
“I was looking for something that had a bit of edge, a character who is intelligent but also mysterious,” Hartley shared in a recent interview. “Colter Shaw is a man with a past and a purpose, and that’s what drew me in.”
Dynamic On-Screen Chemistry with Wife Sofia Pernas
Tracker has also served as a reunion for Hartley and his real-life wife, actress Sofia Pernas, who plays the cunning and independent Billie Matalon. Their shared scenes, which began in Season 1 and expanded in Season 2, have sparked excitement among fans.
“We love working together. Sofia brings so much to the character — wit, depth, unpredictability,” Hartley said. “It adds a whole new layer when you can trust your scene partner that completely.”
Their natural chemistry has been noted by critics and audiences alike, with several publications praising the dynamic tension and emotional undercurrents their characters bring to the screen.
Tracker’s Success and a Promising Future
Since its debut, Tracker has become one of the most-watched new dramas on CBS, with steady viewership and social media buzz. The show blends action, mystery, and human connection — a combination that resonates well with modern audiences. Hartley’s performance has been especially praised for balancing physicality with vulnerability.
Tracker’s success has already led to speculation about future seasons, and Hartley appears ready to continue carrying the torch. “There’s still a lot to explore with Colter — his past, his family, the choices he’s made,” he said. “I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
From Soap Operas to Stardom
Hartley’s journey to leading man status has been steady and diverse. From soap opera roots on Passions and The Young and the Restless to mainstream fame on This Is Us, he has built a reputation for emotional depth and charismatic presence. Tracker marks the beginning of what many are calling his “action-hero era.”
With his magnetic performance and growing presence as a producer, Justin Hartley isn’t just surviving Hollywood — he’s redefining what it means to be a TV star in 2025.
