Jensen Ackles has made several memorable appearances on the hit CBS series Tracker, opposite Justin Hartley. Hartley portrays Colter Shaw, a skilled survivalist and “tracker.” Ackles — who is currently starring in Prime Video’s Countdown — plays Colter’s estranged brother Russell Shaw. Now Tracker, which has been renewed for a third season, is climbing the streaming charts per FlixPatrol. As of June 26, the show based on the 2019 Jeffrey Deaver novel The Never Game is up one spot in Paramount+’s Top 10 overall rankings, and currently sits at No. 9.
Tracker premiered on CBS in 2024 and has a solid 89% Rotten Tomatoes Critic score and a 74% audience rating on the review aggregator. Season 2 ended on a major cliffhanger with its episode titled “Echo Ridge,” which saw Colter returning to his hometown to investigate the disappearance of diner owner. He uncovered a child trafficking operation that — with the help of his friend Joe Marsh (played by The Pitt’s Drew Powell) — he was able to stop. However, the investigation brought to light new information about the death of Colter’s father Ashton.
Hartley talked about the Season 2 finale, during which Otto Waldron (Alex Fernandez) copped to pushing Ashton off a cliff — along with Colter’s mother Mary (Wendy Crewson). “We knew the mother was involved,” Hartley said. “But as far as the actual, specific details, the dialogue in the scene and how I was going to get the information, we didn’t know until [showrunner] Elwood [Reid] came up with it and pitched it.”
In a streaming landscape full of superhero fatigue and recycled plots, Jensen Ackles and Justin Hartley have pulled off something rare—a fresh, explosive, and gripping action series that’s racking up fans and critical acclaim alike. With a whopping 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, their newest project is more than just a fan-favorite—it’s a legit streaming juggernaut.
But what’s really behind the show’s sudden popularity? Why is it climbing the charts now? And should it be on your watchlist tonight? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this powerhouse of a show and why it’s making such massive waves.
What’s the Show About?
The Plot That Packs a Punch
At the center of the series is a high-stakes narrative blending military intrigue, covert ops, deep emotional arcs, and—you guessed it—relentless action. Think Jason Bourne meets Jack Ryan, with some Supernatural-style brotherhood vibes thrown in.
Jensen Ackles plays a gritty, no-nonsense ex-soldier turned rogue operative, while Justin Hartley steps into the shoes of a charismatic intelligence officer haunted by secrets of his own. Together, they take viewers on a mission that spirals from personal vendettas to national conspiracies.
The Star Power Behind the Action
Jensen Ackles: From Demon Hunter to Action Hero
Ackles, known for his legendary role as Dean Winchester in Supernatural, brings the same rugged charm and intensity here—but elevated. He’s darker, more complex, and incredibly compelling.
Justin Hartley: More Than Just a Pretty Face
You may remember Hartley from This Is Us, but in this role, he gets to flex both his emotional depth and physical grit. The guy can throw a punch and break your heart in the same scene.
Why the 89% Rotten Tomatoes Score Matters
An 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes isn’t just a number—it’s a statement. It means critics and fans alike agree: this show delivers. From the pacing and character development to the production quality and script, it’s firing on all cylinders.
Streaming Surge: Why It’s Climbing the Charts Now
1. Perfect Timing
The show dropped at a time when viewers were hungry for fresh action content—and this hit the sweet spot. With major series wrapping up and summer binging in full swing, audiences are all in.
2. Word-of-Mouth Power
Social media is buzzing. Fans are sharing clips, reactions, memes—you name it. It’s the kind of viral word-of-mouth traction you just can’t buy.
3. Critical Praise Meets Fan Love
It’s rare for a show to score with both critics and fans. But this one nails it. That balance is helping it climb faster than typical releases.
Action Sequences That Actually Deliver
Unlike many modern action shows that lean too hard on CGI or predictable choreography, this one brings raw, grounded, high-stakes action. Gunfights feel real. Hand-to-hand scenes are tense. The explosions? Chef’s kiss.
Smart Writing Meets Intense Thrills
Don’t let the guns and grit fool you—this show is brainy, too. Twists are smart, dialogue is sharp, and subplots add layers rather than confusion. You’ll be thinking about episodes long after they end.
Emotional Arcs That Hit Home
What makes this show rise above average thrillers is the emotional weight. Ackles and Hartley bring real heart to their roles—grief, guilt, loyalty, betrayal. It’s the emotional stakes that give the action meaning.
A Global Hit in the Making
It’s not just trending in the U.S. Audiences around the globe—from the UK to Brazil to Southeast Asia—are jumping on board. Streaming makes shows global, and this one’s going international.
Supporting Cast That Brings the Heat
This isn’t just the Jensen & Justin show. The supporting cast includes rising stars and veteran actors who elevate every scene. No weak links here—every character counts.
Where to Watch
Currently streaming on [platform name], the show is easily accessible for binge-watchers. All episodes are available, so no waiting week-to-week. (We’ll update this section as more platforms pick it up.)
What Fans Are Saying
Social media is flooded with fan reactions:
“This show came out of nowhere and it’s 🔥🔥🔥”
“Jensen and Justin’s chemistry is off the charts!”
“Please renew this for five more seasons.”
What Makes It Different from Other Action Shows
Let’s be real—there are a lot of action series out there. But this one has:
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Better pacing
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Grittier realism
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Stronger emotional payoff
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A-list performances
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And that re-watchable quality fans crave
Behind the Scenes Magic
The creators brought in real military consultants, tactical stunt teams, and high-end cinematography that gives the show a cinematic feel. It doesn’t feel like a show. It feels like a blockbuster.
What’s Next for the Series?
Rumors are already swirling about season two, potential spin-offs, and even a movie deal. With streaming numbers through the roof, there’s a good chance this show becomes a franchise.
Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of shows that promise a punch and deliver a yawn, Jensen Ackles and Justin Hartley’s latest action series is the adrenaline shot your watchlist needs. From compelling characters and tight writing to high-octane action and emotional depth, it’s the total package—and it’s just getting started.
