After months of speculation and growing anticipation, CBS has finally delivered a major update on Tracker Season 3 — and it’s packed with exciting developments. From an official premiere date to cast shake-ups and changes in story direction, fans now have a clearer picture of what to expect as Colter Shaw’s journey continues. Here’s a full breakdown of the latest confirmed information.
Renewal and Premiere Date Locked In
CBS officially renewed Tracker for Season 3 on February 20, 2025, just as Season 2 was wrapping its strong run. The announcement came as no surprise — the show has been a massive hit for the network, averaging over 17 million viewers per episode, making it one of CBS’s top-rated dramas of the year.
Now, the network has confirmed that Season 3 will premiere on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, taking its familiar primetime slot once again. The show will return as part of the CBS Fall 2025–2026 schedule, much to the relief of fans who feared it might be pushed to mid-season.
Big Cast Changes Are Official
Season 3 will look a bit different — and not just in terms of story. Three significant cast members will not be returning as series regulars:
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Robin Weigert (Teddi Bruin) – Out after Season 2
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Eric Graise (Bobby Exley) – Stepping away due to other commitments
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Abby McEnany (Velma Bruin) – Quietly written out ahead of Season 3 production
While this shake-up disappointed many fans, CBS has made it clear that these changes are part of a creative shift in direction — not a sign of trouble behind the scenes.
However, Jensen Ackles (who guest-starred in Season 2 as Colter’s older brother Russell Shaw) is officially returning in a recurring role. His presence is expected to fill the emotional gap left by the departing characters and provide a deeper look into Colter’s complicated family history.
Meanwhile, Fiona Rene (Reenie Greene) will remain as a central figure in Season 3 and is reportedly getting more screen time and a richer storyline.
What’s Changing in the Story
Season 3 won’t just shuffle the cast — it’s also embracing a new narrative structure.
Showrunner Elwood Reid revealed that the series will shift from a strictly procedural format to a more serialized approach. That means longer-running story arcs, more emotional stakes, and episodes that connect more tightly than before.
At the heart of the new season will be the deepening mystery surrounding the Shaw family. Season 2 ended with the shocking revelation that Colter’s mother may have asked Otto to kill their father — not Russell, as originally believed. With Russell returning, this twist will take center stage and shape much of the coming season’s emotional weight.
Behind the Scenes and Production Status
Production for Season 3 is well underway. Jensen Ackles confirmed his involvement through a playful behind-the-scenes Instagram video showing his trailer on set next to Justin Hartley’s. The filming is taking place in Vancouver, Canada, with new writers added to explore Russell and Colter’s shared backstory.
Meanwhile, Justin Hartley — who stars and also executive produces the series — has teased that Season 3 will “go deeper into Colter’s psyche” and explore “parts of his past that even he isn’t ready to face.”
What Fans Can Expect
Here’s a quick summary of what to expect from Season 3:
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More serialized storytelling: Expect multi-episode arcs rather than standalone cases.
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A new emotional core: With Russell Shaw back, the season will focus on family trauma, forgiveness, and long-buried secrets.
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New characters: Although some cast members have exited, new recurring characters will be introduced — some tied to Colter’s past, others to his future cases.
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Bigger action sequences: With more on-location shoots and expanded budgets, producers are promising more visually intense chase scenes and dramatic rescues.
Why It Matters
The changes may feel risky, but CBS is doubling down on Tracker because they believe in its staying power. By evolving the show’s format and focusing on more emotionally compelling content, they’re hoping to keep audiences invested beyond just episodic mysteries.
For fans who’ve been wondering whether Tracker is still on CBS — the answer is a resounding yes. The network is betting big on this show’s future, and Season 3 is shaping up to be its most ambitious chapter yet.
Season 3 Premiere Date:
🗓️ Sunday, October 19, 2025
🕗 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS
Streaming: Previous seasons available on Paramount+
Stay tuned for more official trailers and casting announcements in the coming weeks. One thing’s for sure: Tracker Season 3 won’t just return — it’s coming back with a vengeance.
