Since Tracker premiered on CBS, Justin Hartley has repeatedly reminded fans that his character, Colter Shaw, isn’t guaranteed a happy ending. In interviews and behind-the-scenes commentary, Hartley has openly discussed the dangers of Colter’s lifestyle—and hinted at the real possibility that his character could die before the series ends. As Season 3 approaches, those comments feel more relevant than ever.
A Dangerous Profession with Real Risks
From the very first episode, Tracker established Colter Shaw as a lone-wolf survivalist and reward seeker who travels across the country solving crimes and finding missing persons—for a price. But this is not a world of guaranteed triumphs. Colter constantly risks his life—diving into dangerous rescue missions, confronting armed suspects, and exposing deep criminal conspiracies.
Justin Hartley has acknowledged how much danger the character faces, noting in a 2024 interview:
“Colter is not a superhero. He’s extremely resourceful, yes, but he puts himself in real danger every time he takes on a job. It’s not a question of if he’ll get hurt—it’s when.”
Hartley has even speculated that Tracker might eventually come full circle with Colter’s death, especially if it serves a meaningful narrative purpose.
Foreshadowing in the Narrative
Throughout Seasons 1 and 2, Tracker has subtly built the idea that Colter is walking a path that could end in tragedy. Whether through flashbacks to his troubled past, or philosophical conversations with those he helps, death and legacy remain recurring themes.
One key quote that fans often cite comes from Season 2:
“You can run from your past, but eventually you have to face it. And sometimes, it catches up to you.”
Some viewers believe this is a direct nod to Colter’s fate—especially with the reintroduction of family rivalries and personal vendettas tied to his father’s mysterious death. As Season 3 ramps up, the danger surrounding Colter is expected to intensify.
Justin Hartley’s Vision for the Character
Hartley has repeatedly expressed his emotional investment in Colter Shaw. While the actor-producer enjoys the show’s adventurous structure, he also wants Tracker to stay grounded in emotional truth.
“If Colter dies, it has to mean something,” Hartley told Entertainment Weekly.
“I don’t think it should be done for shock value. But if it brings resolution—if it answers the right questions—then it might be the most honest way to tell his story.”
These remarks suggest Hartley is open to seeing his character’s arc end in tragedy—especially if it completes Colter’s long emotional journey. And as both a star and executive producer, Hartley has real influence over how the story unfolds.
Fan Reactions: Is Colter Safe?
The idea that Colter Shaw could die has sparked a strong reaction online. Some fans love the unpredictable nature of the show, while others fear the loss of its lead character. Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) have seen ongoing debates:
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“I think Colter dying in the final season would be poetic,” one fan wrote.
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“If they kill him off, I’m out,” said another.
It’s a testament to the writing and Hartley’s performance that audiences are so emotionally invested in the character’s fate. Viewers know that Tracker is a show where danger feels real—and that’s part of its appeal.
What Could Happen in Season 3?
With Jensen Ackles returning as Colter’s brother Russell Shaw and other family conflicts on the horizon, Season 3 is shaping up to be the show’s most personal and dangerous season yet. Some fans theorize that Russell could be involved in a twist that brings Colter closer to death—or perhaps even saves his life at the last moment.
One theory even suggests the show could fake Colter’s death, only to reveal he’s alive and starting over in a different way. But Hartley has warned that Tracker doesn’t rely on gimmicks:
“There are no easy answers in this show. There are consequences to every choice Colter makes.”
Conclusion: Death Isn’t the Goal—But It’s a Possibility
While Justin Hartley isn’t saying definitively that Colter will die, he’s made it clear that Tracker is willing to take bold storytelling risks. That includes the potential loss of its central character. Whether or not Colter meets a tragic end, the show’s tension comes from knowing that no one is completely safe.
And for Hartley, that’s part of what makes Tracker worth watching.
“We owe it to the audience to be real,” he says.
“And real life? Sometimes the hero doesn’t walk away.”
As we head into Season 3, fans will be watching closely—not just for the action, but for signs of where Colter Shaw’s journey might ultimately lead.
