As the dust settles from Tracker’s shocking Season 2 finale, fans are breathing a sigh of relief at the confirmation of a third season. But Season 3 is not just another chapter—it marks a critical evolution for the series, especially as it navigates major cast changes, shifting network dynamics, and the future of its lead character, Colter Shaw, played by Justin Hartley.
A Confirmed Return, But With Unanswered Questions
After a strong sophomore run, Tracker was officially renewed for Season 3, ensuring that Colter Shaw’s journey will continue. CBS made the announcement in mid-2025, following months of speculation and fan campaigns urging the network to keep the show alive. The confirmation came just weeks after the show concluded its second season with a game-changing cliffhanger and several key departures, making the future feel both thrilling and uncertain.
The renewal, while welcome, didn’t arrive with full clarity. CBS has remained tight-lipped about the premiere date, filming schedule, or returning characters—leaving viewers hungry for details. But behind the scenes, the stakes for Season 3 are higher than ever.
The Departure of Fan-Favorites Changes Everything
Perhaps the biggest narrative shift heading into Season 3 is the exit of two beloved supporting characters: Bobby Exley (played by Eric Graise) and Velma Bruin (played by Fiona Rene). Both actors were integral to the emotional weight and logistical workings of Colter’s cases, often providing him with the research and emotional grounding needed to solve each mystery.
Their absence in Season 3 is a major blow, especially since Tracker was just beginning to establish its version of a “found family” dynamic. Without Bobby’s tech-savvy input or Velma’s fierce intuition, Colter’s world feels lonelier—and more dangerous.
Showrunner Ben Winters has hinted that their departures were “necessary to open new doors,” suggesting that new allies and threats will emerge. Still, the loss stings—and places even more weight on Justin Hartley’s performance to carry the show forward.
Justin Hartley at a Crossroads: Will Colter Shaw Evolve?
Justin Hartley remains the soul of Tracker, and his portrayal of Colter Shaw has earned critical praise for its emotional restraint, physical intensity, and quiet vulnerability. But with the supporting cast changing, Season 3 offers a unique opportunity—or risk—for Hartley’s character to deepen.
Many critics and fans argue that Tracker has yet to tap into the full potential of Colter Shaw. While each case-of-the-week storyline is intriguing, Shaw’s own arc—his haunted past, complicated family dynamics, and philosophical code—deserves greater exploration. Season 3 could be the time to shift focus inward and give Hartley richer material to work with.
CBS and the Streaming Factor: Where Is Tracker Heading?
Another looming question is whether Tracker will remain on CBS. Rumors have swirled about the show transitioning to Paramount+ or becoming a hybrid release across streaming and cable platforms. While no official move has been announced, the success of other CBS dramas finding extended life on streaming has made this possibility increasingly likely.
This pivot could actually work in Tracker’s favor. With a serialized structure and layered backstory, the show might benefit from the creative flexibility and global reach of a streaming-first strategy—especially now that it’s entering a more emotionally ambitious third season.
A Rebirth or a Risk? What Season 3 Needs to Do
Tracker Season 3 can’t afford to be just another procedural. With cast shakeups, a devoted fanbase, and a lead actor whose talent is still being underutilized, the show is at a creative crossroads. To succeed, the upcoming season must:
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Delve deeper into Colter’s psyche and past trauma.
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Introduce new, meaningful characters to balance the loss of Bobby and Velma.
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Explore long-form story arcs that build emotional payoff over multiple episodes.
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Leverage Hartley’s charisma and range beyond action and exposition.
The good news? With 94% on Rotten Tomatoes and growing fan momentum, the appetite for a more evolved Tracker is strong.
Season 3 of Tracker isn’t just a continuation—it’s a test. Can the show move beyond the formula and tap into something more powerful, more human, and more memorable? With Justin Hartley at the helm, the potential is there. Now it’s up to the creative team to seize the opportunity and redefine what Tracker can truly become.
