Justin Hartley Looks Back on His Early Days in Daytime Television
Long before he became a primetime favorite, Justin Hartley began his acting career in the world of soap operas. His breakout role as Fox Crane in Passions (2002–2006) introduced him to a loyal fanbase and gave him his first taste of life in the spotlight. “I learned discipline, memorization, and how to work fast,” Hartley recalled in a recent interview. “It was the perfect training ground.”
The Journey from Green Arrow to Kevin Pearson
After leaving Passions, Hartley transitioned into more prominent roles, including the iconic Oliver Queen (Green Arrow) in Smallville. But it wasn’t until This Is Us debuted in 2016 that Hartley truly became a household name. His portrayal of Kevin Pearson, a struggling actor battling addiction and identity issues, won critical acclaim and earned him a Critics’ Choice Award nomination.
Staying Grounded Through Fame and Personal Growth
Despite his rising fame, Hartley has remained grounded. He credits his daughter Isabella and his Midwest upbringing for keeping him humble. “The fame part can disappear as quickly as it comes,” he said. “But being a dad and staying authentic—those are constants in my life.”
A Career Reinvented with ‘Tracker’ and Beyond
Hartley’s latest role in CBS’s Tracker has allowed him to combine action with emotional depth. Playing Colter Shaw—a lone wolf with a haunting past—has helped Hartley show off his versatility once again. The series quickly became a ratings hit and was renewed for a second season.
Justin Hartley on Producing, Writing, and Taking Control
Not content with just acting, Hartley is increasingly involved behind the scenes. Through ChangeUp Productions, he’s developing multiple projects, including limited series and feature films. “I love storytelling,” he explained. “Whether I’m in front of the camera or behind it, it’s all about creating something meaningful.”
Celebrating 20 Years with Gratitude and Ambition
As Justin Hartley celebrates more than 20 years in the industry, he shows no signs of slowing down. “I’m just getting started,” he said with a smile. “There are so many characters I still want to play—and so many stories left to tell.”
