If you’re watching Tracker, chances are you’ve been captivated by Russell Shaw. Played with sharp intensity and complex charm, Shaw isn’t just another recurring character—he’s a powerhouse presence. While the series centers around Colter Shaw’s adventures as a reward seeker and tracker, it’s Russell who often shifts the emotional and narrative tides of the show.
While Colter Shaw himself could be described as a charismatic dreamboat, Russell is the type of “bad boy” who pulls audiences in with ease. Just like Ackles’ most popular character, Supernatural’s Dean Winchester, Russell has a history of violence, a penchant for classic cars, and a chip on his shoulder, though he ultimately remains faithful to his brother. Ackles clearly has a type, but we’re not at all complaining. It’s because of Russell’s stark personality differences compared to Colter that makes this rockstar of a character so enjoyable to watch. Every time Ackles and Hartley are on-screen together, TV magic is made — the only shame is that they never shared any screentime on Smallville, having been separated by an entire season during their respective tenures on the series. On Tracker, Ackles easily commands each scene, and it’s hard not to want more after watching his (so far) two appearances.
Though we’ve previously noted that Season 2 newcomer Brent Sexton would be perfect for a more permanent role on the show as Keaton, there’s no doubt that Ackles’ Russell Shaw is Tracker’s most versatile recurring character. Considering he’s only appeared a handful of times (aside from flashbacks to Colter’s youth, where the character was played by Matthew Nelson-Mahood), it’s impressive that Russell has become such a big part of the show. Season 1 spent a lot of time pushing Russell away as Colter dodged his calls for the better part of the season, but after they made up, he has been a lingering presence that fans can’t get enough of. Sure, part of it is how similar he is to Dean Winchester, but it’s the chemistry between Ackles and Hartley that’s truly off the charts. For a character who is often so alone, it’s interesting to consider that Colter Shaw has a brother out there who will always have his back, and that’s something worth examining further.
Jensen Ackles May Be Busy, but ‘Tracker’ Deserves His Attention
In a recent interview with TV Line, Justin Hartley noted that we will “hopefully” be seeing Ackles’ Russell and Melissa Roxburgh’s Dory Shaw again later this season. So far, Dory has only appeared in Season 1’s “Beyond the Campus Walls,” and fans have been eager for a full Shaw family reunion ever since. “We’re writing for them,” Hartley noted ominously, but the actor refused to offer any more clarity on the matter. With Ackles set to appear again on the next season of The Boys (alongside some of his former Supernatural castmates) and headlining the upcoming Prime Video drama Countdown, the star may simply be too busy to return to Tracker this season. But the thing is, the show really needs him to.
Right now, Russell’s absence feels like a loose thread that ought to be tied up to something. While we know that Colter isn’t too eager to uncover the answers about his family history, we certainly are, and Russell’s return is necessary to do that. With his particular expertise and resources, Russell would be invaluable in helping Colter get to the bottom of their father’s secret government connections. Not to mention, it’s about time that they both confronted their mother, Mary Dove Shaw (Wendy Crewson), after she previously framed Russell in Colter’s mind for Ashton’s death. She was responsible for driving a wedge between the brothers for years. Just like Russell, Mary has only appeared in two episodes (the very first two in the series), only to essentially be forgotten. Here’s hoping that Tracker can get its act together and give the people what we’ve long been waiting for.
In a series brimming with action and intensity, Russell Shaw is the soul beneath the surface. He’s intriguing, layered, and completely unforgettable. While Colter might lead the journey, it’s Shaw who often makes it matter. If you’re not paying attention to Russell Shaw, you’re missing one of the best parts of Tracker.
