For two seasons, CBS’s Tracker has proven itself as one of the network’s most reliable hits. Starring Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw, the series combines high-stakes adventure with emotionally charged family drama, earning both critical praise and strong ratings. Season 1 debuted to impressive numbers, and Season 2 held its audience, cementing Tracker as a Sunday night staple.
But as the show heads into its third season, there’s a growing concern among fans and TV insiders: CBS may be unintentionally putting Tracker on a path toward a much shorter lifespan than expected.
The Scheduling Gamble
Season 3 is set to premiere on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET, a later start than usual for CBS dramas. This mid-to-late October debut means fewer available weeks to air episodes before the holiday break, leading to a tighter season schedule. Some fear this could result in fewer episodes, irregular airing patterns, or extended midseason gaps — all of which can hurt audience momentum.
In the competitive TV landscape, a delayed or inconsistent airing schedule often leads to declining live viewership, even for well-loved shows. And Tracker’s audience, while loyal, is still partially dependent on traditional Sunday night viewing habits.
Cast Shake-Ups Could Impact Longevity
Season 3 will be missing two core cast members — Abby McEnany’s Velma and Eric Graise’s Bobby — leaving Colter Shaw and Reenie Greene (Fiona Rene) to carry most of the narrative load. While this could give the show a fresh dynamic, it’s also a risky move that changes the team chemistry fans have grown attached to.
Jensen Ackles will return as Russell Shaw, Colter’s brother, in a recurring role — but even with this exciting addition, the long-term absence of beloved characters might make Tracker feel less like the show audiences fell in love with.
A Proven Hit That Still Needs Stability
It’s worth noting that Tracker remains one of CBS’s most-watched dramas and consistently performs well in delayed and streaming viewership. However, television history has shown that even hit shows can lose steam if they’re subjected to irregular schedules, shortened seasons, or too many behind-the-scenes changes.
If CBS wants Tracker to thrive beyond Season 3, the network will need to keep the show’s release strategy consistent, support its evolving cast, and maintain the emotional storytelling that made audiences invest in Colter Shaw’s journey in the first place.
For now, fans are counting down the days to October 19 — hoping this season won’t be Tracker’s last big chase.
