CBS has officially renewed Tracker for a third season, and while fans eagerly await the return of Colter Shaw, the show’s lead, Justin Hartley, is already dropping some electrifying hints about what lies ahead.
1. Going Deeper Into Darkness
In recent interviews, Hartley revealed that Tracker Season 3 is set to dive into emotionally raw territory—and not just with another missing-person case. After the bombshell revelation that Colter’s mother ordered Otto to kill his father, Hartley teased:
“I know we’ll get to the nitty-gritty of why my mother hired this guy… divide-and-conquer, psychosis… We’ll unpack that.”
Expect a twisty exploration of family dynamics, secret motives, and hidden dangers that will drive Colter to his limits.
2. On the Run—Could Colter Be Framed?
The actor also floated a thrilling new direction: what happens if Colter becomes the target? Hartley shared:
“It would be interesting… to see him be set up… using all those skills to run from the authorities.”
This could mark the biggest shift yet—from case solver to fugitive.
3. Jensen Ackles Confirms His Return as Russell Shaw
Mid-2025 brought more excitement: Jensen Ackles confirmed via Instagram that he’ll reprise his role as Russell Shaw, Colter’s estranged brother. Ackles filmed on set next to Justin Hartley’s trailer—making it clear: Russell is coming back, and early in the season at that.
4. Season 3 Premiere Announced: Mark Your Calendars
CBS has locked in the debut: Tracker Season 3 will premiere Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET, right back in its signature Sunday primetime slot.
This marks a five-month gap from the Season 2 finale—and fans are poised for one of the most dramatic seasons yet.
What’s Different This Season?
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A Leaner Team: Abby McEnany (Velma) and Eric Graise (Bobby) have exited. This confirms a more solitary path ahead for Colter, focused on psychodrama and intense personal stakes.
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Still Strong: Justin Hartley (Colter) and Fiona Rene (Reenie) remain core cast members.
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New Conflict: With Russell’s return and the family mystery deepening, Season 3 promises rich emotional complexity and possibly shifting alliances.
At-a-Glance Overview
| Highlight | Update |
|---|---|
| Emotional Terrain | Delving into Mary Shaw’s motives and Colter’s fractured family dynamics |
| Plot Twist | Colter may be framed and forced to flee while unraveling the truth |
| Russell Returns | Jensen Ackles reprises role, hinting at a central role in Season 3 |
| Premiere Date | Sunday, October 19, 2025 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS |
| Supporting Cast | Velma and Bobby have exited; narrative now rests on a leaner ensemble |
With the family mystery getting darker, Colter under possible suspicion, and his brother Russell re-entering the scene, Tracker Season 3 looks set to be the most psychologically charged chapter yet. Hartley’s warnings about emotional layers and suspense “deepening” are shaping up to be more than hype—they’re a promise.
Stay tuned—this October, Tracker returns with more tension, revelations, and stakes than ever before.
