Since its premiere, Tracker has quickly become one of CBS’s most-watched series, thanks to the combination of gripping cases, emotional family drama, and the magnetic performance of Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw. After the suspense-filled ending of Season 2, fans have been eagerly awaiting updates about Season 3—and now CBS has officially shared the news. The upcoming season promises to be bigger, darker, and even more emotionally charged than what came before.
The Return Date Is Set
CBS has confirmed that Tracker Season 3 will premiere on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET. The network clearly sees the show as one of its tentpole dramas, giving it a strong Sunday-night slot heading into the fall television season. Viewers can expect new weekly episodes that continue to blend mystery-of-the-week storylines with the larger Shaw family arc.
For those who want to catch up before the premiere, both Seasons 1 and 2 are available to stream on Paramount+, while Season 1 is also currently on Hulu. This gives both longtime fans and new audiences plenty of time to revisit Colter’s adventures before the story picks up again in October.
Big Changes in the Cast
One of the most significant updates heading into Season 3 is the departure of two series regulars: Abby McEnany (Velma Bruin) and Eric Graise (Bobby Exley). Both actors brought unique energy and skills to Colter’s investigative team, and their exits mark a major shift in the show’s dynamic.
The reason behind their departure has not been deeply explained by CBS, but this follows a trend in network television where casts are frequently streamlined to focus on central characters. Their absence, however, opens the door for new faces and returning favorites. Some fans are already speculating that Bobby’s cousin Randy may step into the hacker role, which would keep the show’s tech expertise intact.
The good news is that Fiona Rene (Reenie) will continue her role alongside Hartley, ensuring that the chemistry and tension between Colter and his allies remain a highlight of the series.
The Mystery Deepens: Colter’s Family Secrets
Season 2 ended with one of the most shocking reveals yet: Colter’s mother may have played a direct role in his father’s death. This revelation fundamentally changes the story and provides the narrative backbone for Season 3.
Justin Hartley has teased in interviews that the new episodes will go “deeper into the nitty-gritty” of the Shaw family’s past. Was Mary Shaw protecting her children, or is there a darker truth lurking behind the tragedy? Fans will finally begin to get answers, and the truth could reshape Colter’s understanding of his own life.
Fan Favorites and Potential Returns
Another major question heading into Season 3 is the status of Colter’s siblings.
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Jensen Ackles (Russell Shaw) has already expressed interest in returning, and he praised the natural chemistry between himself and Justin Hartley. While CBS has not officially confirmed Russell’s appearance, both fans and critics are expecting him to play a role in the new season.
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Melissa Roxburgh (Dory Shaw) remains a question mark. Scheduling conflicts may make her return difficult, but many viewers are hoping to see the Shaw family story explored from her perspective as well.
The inclusion—or exclusion—of Colter’s siblings will greatly influence the emotional weight of Season 3, as family tension continues to be the heart of the show.
Behind the Scenes and Star Power
Justin Hartley, who also serves as an executive producer, has been open about his passion for Tracker. Beyond leading the show as Colter Shaw, he’s deeply involved in shaping the storylines and the emotional beats. In preparing for the new season, Hartley has reportedly doubled down on physical training to keep up with the action-heavy demands of the series while also collaborating closely with the writing team to ensure that Colter’s emotional journey feels authentic.
Hartley’s involvement ensures that Season 3 won’t just be about solving weekly cases—it will be about understanding the complex man at the center of them.
How to Watch Season 3
When Season 3 premieres in October, viewers will be able to watch it live on CBS or through live TV streaming services such as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, fuboTV, Sling TV, or DirecTV Stream. For those who prefer on-demand viewing, Paramount+ will continue to serve as the go-to streaming home for the series.
What to Expect Overall
Season 3 of Tracker is shaping up to be both familiar and refreshingly different. While fans will still enjoy Colter’s thrilling adventures and weekly mysteries, the stakes are higher than ever with the family drama at the center. The departures of Abby McEnany and Eric Graise may be bittersweet, but the potential returns of Jensen Ackles and Melissa Roxburgh could more than make up for it.
The balance of action, emotional depth, and compelling character arcs is what has made Tracker such a hit. If CBS can deliver on the promises of more secrets, more danger, and more heart, then Season 3 could be the show’s strongest season yet.
For fans who love mystery, drama, and a strong central performance, Tracker continues to be one of CBS’s most reliable hits. With new twists ahead, October 19 can’t come soon enough.
