Justin Hartley’s Abs Are the Only Good Part of Post-Super Bowl Tracker
A Lukewarm Reception
After much anticipation, Tracker made its post-Super Bowl debut with the hopes of capitalizing on the massive audience that the big game draws. The episode had all the ingredients for success: a prime time slot, high stakes, and Justin Hartley as its magnetic leading man. Yet, while Hartley’s performance — and particularly his impressive physique — was a highlight for many viewers, the episode itself left much to be desired.
The Super Bowl episode was marketed as a thrilling, action-packed introduction to the Tracker universe, but it struggled to deliver on its lofty promises. Critics and fans alike were quick to point out its uneven pacing, formulaic plotlines, and a lack of the emotional depth that made the show’s first season a standout.
Justin Hartley’s Star Power
If there was one thing viewers could agree on, it was that Justin Hartley’s on-screen presence was a saving grace. The actor, best known for his roles in This Is Us and Smallville, has proven time and again that he can carry a series with charm and authenticity. In Tracker, Hartley plays Colter Shaw, a rugged and resourceful tracker with a knack for solving dangerous mysteries.
In the post-Super Bowl episode, Hartley’s physicality took center stage, as he navigated high-octane stunts and intense action sequences. Social media buzzed with comments about Hartley’s physique, with some jokingly suggesting that his abs deserved their own credit in the opening sequence.
While his undeniable appeal brought some much-needed energy to the episode, even Hartley’s star power couldn’t fully save it from criticism.
What Went Wrong
The Super Bowl slot is a coveted opportunity, but it’s also a double-edged sword. The pressure to deliver a broad, accessible episode that can hook new viewers often leads to creative compromises, and Tracker seemed to fall into this trap.
The episode leaned heavily on action sequences, leaving little room for the nuanced storytelling and character development that fans of the show have come to expect. The plot — which involved a predictable rescue mission — felt rushed and lacked the emotional stakes needed to make viewers care.
Moreover, newcomers unfamiliar with the show’s overarching narrative were left confused, as the episode failed to provide sufficient context about Colter Shaw’s backstory or motivations. This misstep alienated potential fans and left longtime viewers feeling unsatisfied.
Can Tracker Recover?
Despite the mixed reviews, Tracker still has a chance to bounce back. The series has a solid foundation, thanks to Hartley’s compelling performance and the intriguing premise of a modern-day tracker solving mysteries. If future episodes return to the storytelling strengths of the first season — balancing action with emotional depth and character-driven narratives — the show could regain its footing.
Justin Hartley, for his part, remains committed to the role and optimistic about the show’s direction. “Colter Shaw is a complex character, and there’s so much more to explore,” Hartley said in a recent interview. “I’m excited for fans to see what’s coming next.”
The Verdict
While the post-Super Bowl episode of Tracker didn’t quite hit the mark, it succeeded in showcasing Justin Hartley’s undeniable charisma and screen presence. If the series can learn from its missteps and focus on what makes it unique, there’s still hope for Tracker to win back audiences in the episodes to come. And if nothing else, Hartley’s abs will keep fans tuning in.
