Sofia Pernas on Playing Husband Justin Hartley’s Nemesis on Tracker: ‘It’s So Fun’
When Tracker introduced Sofia Pernas as the sharp-witted and enigmatic antagonist opposite Justin Hartley’s Colter Shaw, fans were intrigued by the real-life couple’s on-screen rivalry. Pernas, who is married to Hartley, plays a character who challenges Shaw’s every move, adding layers of tension and complexity to the show’s plot. For Pernas, stepping into the role has been not only a professional milestone but also an enjoyable opportunity to spar with her husband on set.
A Riveting Dynamic
In Tracker, Pernas plays Elena Vargas, a cunning operative with her own agenda that often puts her in direct conflict with Shaw. Elena’s intelligence, resourcefulness, and moral ambiguity make her a formidable foe, and her scenes with Shaw crackle with energy.
Pernas has shared how much she enjoys the dynamic, saying:
“It’s rare that you get to play a role like this, let alone opposite your spouse. Justin and I have such different approaches to acting, which makes our scenes unpredictable and exciting. It’s so fun to try and outsmart each other, both in character and sometimes on set!”
Balancing Personal and Professional
While playing enemies might be challenging for some couples, Pernas and Hartley have embraced the opportunity. According to Pernas, their personal relationship has strengthened their on-screen chemistry. The trust and comfort they share allow them to take risks in their performances, resulting in some of the show’s most intense and memorable moments.
“When you’re working with someone you know so well, there’s a sense of freedom,” Pernas explained in an interview. “You can push boundaries because you know the other person will catch you. Justin and I both love what we do, and it’s been amazing to share this experience together.”
Elena Vargas: A Complex Villain
One of the reasons Pernas was drawn to the role of Elena was the character’s depth and complexity. Unlike typical villains, Elena isn’t evil for the sake of being evil. Her motivations are rooted in a mix of personal ambition, past trauma, and a skewed sense of justice.
Pernas noted:
“Elena is such a fascinating character. She genuinely believes she’s the hero of her own story, and I think that’s what makes her so compelling. She’s not just trying to destroy Colter for fun—she has her reasons, and I love exploring those layers.”
Fan Reactions
Fans have been quick to praise Pernas for her portrayal of Elena, with many highlighting the electric dynamic between her and Hartley. Social media has been flooded with comments like:
“Sofia Pernas is killing it as Elena! Her chemistry with Justin Hartley is next-level, even when they’re at odds on-screen.”
Others have expressed excitement about the twists and turns Elena’s character brings to the series.
What’s Next for Elena and Colter?
As Tracker continues, the rivalry between Elena and Colter is expected to escalate, with both characters delving deeper into their personal motivations and facing increasingly high stakes. Pernas hinted at some surprising developments for Elena’s storyline, teasing:
“Let’s just say Elena’s not done shaking things up. There’s a lot more to her than meets the eye.”
Conclusion
Sofia Pernas’ role as Elena Vargas has added a thrilling new dimension to Tracker, showcasing her talent and her ability to hold her own against her real-life husband. For fans, watching Pernas and Hartley bring their on-screen rivalry to life has been a highlight of the series. As the season unfolds, audiences can look forward to more gripping confrontations between these two powerhouse performers.
