As Tracker heads into its highly anticipated third season, fans are bracing for major changes — from character departures to new creative directions. With Justin Hartley remaining the cornerstone of the series, the show is being forced to reinvent itself without several key players. But could this be the shake-up Tracker needs to reach new heights? Here’s everything we know and what audiences can expect in Season 3.
A New Era Begins: The Exit of Core Characters
Season 2 of Tracker concluded with emotional intensity and action-packed tension, but also left viewers shocked when it was confirmed that three pivotal characters — Bobby Exley (played by Eric Graise), Velma Bruhl (Fiona Rene), and Teddi Bruhl (Robin Weigert) — would not return for Season 3. These characters were integral to Colter Shaw’s emotional support network and added layers of warmth, humor, and strategy to the series.
Their absence has left a visible gap. For longtime fans, Bobby’s brilliance and tech wizardry, Velma’s fierce loyalty, and Teddi’s sharp wisdom brought grounding balance to the show’s high-stakes cases. With their departure, the tone of the show is poised to shift — possibly toward a more solitary or dangerous path for Colter Shaw.
Justin Hartley at the Helm: More Screen Time, More Depth?
Justin Hartley’s portrayal of Colter Shaw remains the show’s most compelling force. In Season 3, producers are reportedly placing even more emphasis on Hartley’s performance, giving him deeper psychological storylines and more complex cases. The absence of other regulars may provide the narrative space for Colter’s past — particularly his traumatic childhood and the shadow of his father’s legacy — to take center stage.
Sources close to production hint that Season 3 will explore a darker side of Colter’s psyche, with episodes diving into unresolved guilt, trust issues, and the cost of always being “the tracker” — never the one being found.
Will There Be New Cast Members?
To fill the vacuum left by Bobby, Velma, and Teddi, Tracker is rumored to be introducing new recurring characters. While casting announcements have not been officially made, insider reports suggest that the show may lean into more antagonistic dynamics — perhaps fellow bounty hunters, private contractors, or even law enforcement agents with competing agendas.
This shift could heighten the tension of each case Colter takes on. Rather than being supported by a trusted inner circle, Colter may now face a world where allies are few and far between.
A More Serialized Season?
One major criticism of Seasons 1 and 2 was the procedural format, which made it difficult for long-form storytelling to flourish. Season 3 is reportedly moving toward a more serialized structure. Instead of standalone episodes, viewers may follow multi-episode arcs, with Colter embroiled in deeper, more dangerous investigations that span several states — or perhaps even multiple seasons.
This change is welcomed by fans who want to see more character development, cliffhangers, and emotional payoffs that go beyond the “case of the week.”
Behind the Scenes: Creative Team Adjustments
Along with cast changes, Season 3 also marks some behind-the-scenes shifts. Several writers from earlier seasons have stepped down, and new showrunners with experience in serialized drama are stepping in. Their goal: to elevate Tracker from a solid procedural to a prestige-level character drama.
With this fresh creative direction, the tone of the show may become more mature, reflective, and emotionally intricate, while still preserving the adventure and chase elements that fans love.
A New Network Home?
Amid all these developments, the question “Is Tracker still on CBS?” has echoed throughout fan forums. While Season 3 will still air on CBS, there are growing rumors that a streaming platform like Paramount+ may eventually become the show’s primary home. Given the serialized format and the possibility of darker, grittier content, such a move would make sense — and could give the show more creative freedom.
Final Thoughts: Can Tracker Survive Its Biggest Test?
Season 3 of Tracker will be a defining chapter. With beloved characters gone and a new tone on the horizon, the series has the chance to either reinvent itself or falter under the weight of change. Yet Justin Hartley’s commitment to Colter Shaw remains unwavering, and that alone gives fans a reason to stay hopeful.
Whether this transformation leads to the show’s best season yet — or proves to be a misstep — one thing is certain: Tracker Season 3 won’t play it safe.
Stay tuned.
