Is Jensen Ackles In Tracker Season 2? Why Russell Shaw Isn’t In Episode 1
Tracker features many exciting guest stars, but one of the most memorable is Jensen Ackles, who portrayed Russell Shaw. However, Ackles does not appear in the season 2 premiere of the CBS action drama. The show follows Colter Shaw (Justin Hartley), a survivalist and tracker who uses his unique skills to assist private citizens and law enforcement in solving cases for reward money. Beyond his tracking missions, Colter’s life is filled with drama, especially involving his family and unresolved mysteries from the past.
Colter’s brother, Russell, plays a pivotal role in the biggest enigma haunting him since childhood—the death of their father, Ashton Shaw. As teenagers, Colter discovered Ashton’s body at the bottom of a cliff and saw Russell standing at the top, leading him to believe, for years, that his brother was responsible. However, new evidence surfaced toward the end of season 1, casting doubt on Colter’s suspicions. Season 2 is expected to dig deeper into this mystery, meaning Russell’s return is essential, even though Ackles does not appear in the premiere.
Jensen Ackles Will Be In Tracker Season 2 – But His First Appearance Is In Episode 2
Russell Shaw Is Returning
Though Russell Shaw is absent from the season 2 premiere, Jensen Ackles is slated to return in episode 2, titled “Ontological Shock,” airing on Sunday, October 20. In the episode, Russell comes back to help Colter in a complicated case. Colter investigates the mysterious disappearance of a hiker who may have witnessed a UFO, but in a shocking twist, Colter himself goes missing. Reenie Green reaches out to Russell, hoping he can find Colter before it’s too late.
Elwood Reid, the showrunner of Tracker, teased Ackles’ return in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. He hinted that Russell would appear at a high-stakes moment, possibly during Colter’s disappearance. However, Russell’s role isn’t limited to the investigation—his return brings new revelations about their father, Ashton. “There’s a secret that’s revealed about their father, one that both brothers uncover,” Reid shared. “There’s also a memory that Russell recalls—one Colter doesn’t have—about an encounter between Colter and their father.”
How Many Episodes Will Jensen Ackles Be In?
Ackles’ Episode Count Is Still Unknown
It remains unclear how many Tracker season 2 episodes will feature Jensen Ackles, though it’s confirmed his role will extend beyond episode 2. Ackles has a recurring part this season, meaning fans can expect him to appear sporadically throughout. He is likely to show up during critical episodes, such as the mid-season and season finales, given that the show will continue to explore the mystery surrounding Ashton’s death and Russell’s role in it.
Ackles’ busy schedule may limit his appearances. The actor began filming a new Amazon Prime Video series, Countdown, in September 2024 and will start working on the fifth and final season of The Boys in November. His commitments could mean fewer Tracker episodes for him, with his appearances likely focused on key plot developments, including the resolution of the family mystery.
What To Expect From Russell Shaw’s Storyline In Season 2
Uncovering The Truth About Ashton Shaw’s Death
Russell’s return in episode 2 will primarily involve rescuing Colter, but his character arc will delve deeper into the enigma of their father’s death. In an interview with TV Insider, Justin Hartley teased Russell’s evolving role in the series. Hartley said:
“Russell comes back, and Colter has a few questions for him—specifically about Dory and a box she possesses. Does Russell know where it is? Russell is also quite heroic in episode 2, and they get involved in this black-ops type of mission. Then, out of nowhere, government agents start asking questions about our dad, which raises even more intrigue. Every episode adds more layers to our dad’s story—sometimes making him seem vindicated, other times making him look completely off the rails.”
Russell’s appearances throughout season 2 will shed more light on the Shaw family’s complex past. Additionally, the character will show signs of growth and transformation. Hartley praised Ackles’ portrayal, sharing with Entertainment Weekly:
“Jensen came in and elevated the character with his unique touches. He made Russell his own, bringing depth and authenticity to the role in ways that enhanced the story.”
With Ackles reprising his role as Russell Shaw, Tracker season 2 promises gripping family drama and thrilling plot twists. Fans can look forward to more secrets being uncovered, especially surrounding the mystery of Ashton’s death, as Russell and Colter navigate both their brotherly bond and their tumultuous past.
