Justin Hartley has long been admired for his powerful on-screen presence, from his breakout roles in Smallville and This Is Us to his leading role in CBS’s Tracker. But what makes him stand out even more is his ability to not only perform as an actor but also step behind the camera as a director. This dual talent has become a defining part of his career, showing both his artistry and leadership.
Wearing Two Hats
Acting and directing may seem like separate worlds, but Justin has managed to combine them. As an actor, he immerses himself in the emotions, struggles, and triumphs of the characters he plays. As a director, he steps back, shaping the story’s pacing, visual style, and emotional depth.
Doing both on the same project is a challenge—one moment, he’s delivering lines with raw emotion, and the next, he’s analyzing camera angles or guiding other actors. Yet Justin thrives in this balance, proving that he has both the creativity and discipline to succeed on both sides of the lens.
Lessons from This Is Us
During This Is Us, Justin didn’t just portray Kevin Pearson—he also directed several episodes. This experience gave him the rare opportunity to direct his co-stars while continuing to act as one of the show’s central characters. It required trust, communication, and an ability to switch perspectives seamlessly.
By directing, Justin gained a deeper understanding of storytelling as a whole. He learned to think beyond his character and consider how each scene fits into the bigger picture. This experience prepared him for future projects like Tracker, where his leadership skills could once again shine.
Bringing Vision to Tracker
In Tracker, Justin not only stars as Colter Shaw but also has the chance to shape the series creatively. His involvement behind the camera ensures that the show reflects both his vision and his deep understanding of the character.
Directing while acting in Tracker allows him to bring authenticity to the story. Because he knows Colter Shaw inside and out, he can guide the camera, dialogue, and even the supporting performances in a way that elevates the entire production.
The Secret to Balancing Both
So how does Justin manage to balance acting and directing at the same time?
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Preparation: He studies the script thoroughly, understanding both his character and the overall direction of the episode.
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Collaboration: He trusts his crew and fellow actors, knowing that filmmaking is a team effort.
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Switching Perspectives: He can separate his role as an actor from his role as a director, moving fluidly between performing and guiding.
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Passion for Storytelling: At the heart of it, Justin loves stories—whether he’s telling them in front of the camera or shaping them behind it.
A Future Full of Possibilities
Justin Hartley’s ability to act and direct proves that he’s more than just a leading man—he’s a storyteller. His career shows that with dedication, vision, and heart, it’s possible to succeed in both worlds.
As he continues to take on bigger roles and more directing opportunities, fans can expect to see his influence grow even stronger, both on screen and behind the camera. In many ways, Justin represents the future of television: artists who don’t just perform but also shape the stories we love.
