In a surprising announcement that has sparked discussion across social media platforms and fan forums, CBS has officially confirmed that Tracker Season 3 will not feature a same-sex relationship storyline. This includes the notable absence of the fan-favorite Velma-Teddi romantic arc, which had garnered considerable attention in the show’s previous seasons. While the network cited creative direction and narrative cohesion as primary reasons, fans are expressing mixed reactions — from disappointment to understanding.
The Popularity of Tracker and the Velma-Teddi Subplot
Since its premiere, Tracker has captivated audiences with its high-stakes storylines, layered character development, and gripping action sequences. The show follows Colter Shaw (played by Justin Hartley), a survivalist and tracker who travels across the U.S. helping solve mysteries and locate missing persons.
While the central narrative focuses on Shaw’s adventures, Tracker’s writers have successfully woven in subplots that explore the emotional and psychological layers of supporting characters. Among these, the Velma-Teddi dynamic stood out as an unexpected yet powerful representation of a same-sex relationship. Velma, a resourceful and emotionally complex tech specialist, and Teddi, a confident and empathetic intelligence analyst, shared a bond that evolved from professional respect to deep affection over the course of Season 2.
For many viewers, the pairing offered a refreshing break from traditional television tropes. Their relationship was depicted with nuance, intimacy, and sincerity — without falling into stereotypes or being reduced to mere “representation points.”
CBS’s Official Statement: A Shift in Direction
On May 17, 2025, CBS issued a statement clarifying its creative direction for Tracker Season 3:
“While we are proud of the diverse storytelling showcased in previous seasons, Season 3 will focus more intensively on Colter Shaw’s solo journey and core mission. There are currently no plans to explore a same-sex romantic subplot in the upcoming season.”
The statement does not directly address the Velma-Teddi storyline but makes it clear that romantic subplots — particularly non-heteronormative ones — are not part of the current vision for the series. While the network did not attribute the change to any controversy or backlash, some fans believe external pressures could have played a role.
Fan Reactions: From Disappointment to Dismay
The news quickly made waves across X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and Tumblr. The #VelmaAndTeddi hashtag trended for several hours following CBS’s announcement, with many fans expressing disappointment that a promising LGBTQ+ narrative was being sidelined.
“They finally gave us a healthy, non-token queer relationship on a primetime procedural — and now they’re scrapping it? Feels like a step backward,” wrote one fan on Reddit’s r/TrackerCBS forum.
Others speculated that the network’s decision may be tied to broader industry trends. In recent years, several high-profile television series have faced criticism for so-called “queerbaiting” — hinting at LGBTQ+ storylines without delivering meaningful representation. While Tracker had made more tangible efforts in Season 2, the abrupt decision to remove the Velma-Teddi couple in Season 3 has left many feeling that the show is retreating from the progress it once championed.
The Business Behind the Scenes: Why This Decision Might Make Sense to CBS
From a network’s perspective, decisions about storylines are often shaped as much by ratings and demographics as by creative ambition. According to Nielsen ratings, Tracker enjoys strong viewership among key adult demographics, particularly in the 35–64 age group. This audience segment has traditionally favored straightforward action and mystery narratives, and CBS might believe a tighter focus on Colter Shaw will better retain viewership.
Moreover, the rising cost of scripted dramas has led many networks to streamline casts and subplots. While not explicitly stated, removing the Velma-Teddi storyline may be part of broader budgetary and structural changes ahead of Season 3’s production.
Is This the End for Velma and Teddi?
At present, it’s unclear whether the characters of Velma and Teddi will be removed entirely or simply demoted to minor roles without romantic entanglements. CBS has not confirmed the fate of the actresses playing these roles, nor have the showrunners offered specific comments about what to expect in terms of character arcs.
Still, many fans remain hopeful that this is not the final chapter for Velma and Teddi. Some are even calling for a spinoff series or web-based miniseries that could allow their story to continue independently of the main Tracker plotline.
“We’re not asking for the whole show to change — just that the progress made last season not be erased,” said one Change.org petition, which had over 15,000 signatures within 48 hours of the announcement.
Broader Implications: What This Means for LGBTQ+ Representation on Network TV
The decision to exclude same-sex relationships from Tracker Season 3 reignites an ongoing conversation about representation in mainstream media. While cable and streaming platforms have increasingly embraced LGBTQ+ characters and storylines, traditional broadcast networks like CBS often walk a finer line — trying to appeal to broader audiences while responding to calls for inclusivity.
This move by CBS could signal a cautious return to “safer” content that avoids potential controversy. Alternatively, it could be a one-off decision tied specifically to Tracker’s thematic direction for the season.
Whatever the rationale, it sends a message that’s hard for fans to ignore: LGBTQ+ storylines still face vulnerability, even after achieving visibility.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in Tracker Season 3
Despite the controversy, CBS is moving forward with an ambitious production schedule for Season 3. The upcoming season will reportedly explore deeper aspects of Colter Shaw’s backstory, including his estranged family relationships and the mystery behind his father’s disappearance. New antagonists, darker moral dilemmas, and high-octane tracking cases will also take center stage.
For longtime fans of the show, there’s still much to look forward to — but the absence of Velma and Teddi’s relationship will undoubtedly leave a void that will be hard to fill.
Final Thoughts
The exclusion of the Velma-Teddi relationship from Tracker Season 3 is more than just a narrative adjustment; it’s a reflection of how media gatekeepers continue to influence the visibility and legitimacy of LGBTQ+ stories. While CBS may view the decision as a creative redirection, many viewers interpret it as a step backward in a broader cultural movement toward inclusion.
Only time will tell whether this move will affect Tracker’s popularity — or prompt a course correction in future seasons. For now, fans will have to wait and see whether meaningful representation will ever track its way back into the series.
