Justin Hartley is teasing what’s ahead on the upcoming third season of Tracker.
Season 2 of the hit CBS series concluded with Colter (Hartley) discovering it was Otto (Alex Fernandez), not his brother Russell (Jensen Ackles), who pushed his father off a cliff to his death. After Otto confessed to the murder, he dropped another bombshell — he committed the crime after Colter’s mother (Wendy Crewson) asked for help. “I know we’ll get to the nitty-gritty of why my mother hired this guy,” Hartley, 48, told Variety. “Was she protecting her kids? Was an affair happening? Was the government involved? Was it strictly just my mother? Why did she hide that from us for so long? Why did she lead me to believe that it was my brother who was involved when he wasn’t?” “It seems like this divide-and-conquer thing that she’s doing,” the This Is Us alum continued. “It was just an odd thing to do with your children. There’s some deep psychosis there. We’ll unpack that.”
Get ready, “Tracker” fans—things are about to get real. Justin Hartley isn’t just coming back for Season 3—he’s diving headfirst into the emotional trenches. In a recent interview, Hartley revealed that the new season of the CBS hit is going to peel back more layers of Colter Shaw than ever before. That’s right, we’re talking deeper character arcs, darker twists, and some seriously gritty storytelling. But what does that mean exactly? Let’s unpack everything we know about “Tracker” Season 3 and why it might just be the most raw, riveting chapter yet.
What’s “Tracker” All About Again?
If you’re new here (or need a quick refresh), “Tracker” is a fast-paced procedural drama starring Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw, a rugged lone-wolf survivalist who helps people track down missing persons… for a reward. But this isn’t just another bounty hunter show. It’s full of suspense, moral dilemmas, and emotional flashbacks that give it real depth.
Justin Hartley’s Take on Colter Shaw
A Man With Layers
Colter isn’t your average TV hero. He’s not flawless or flashy. He’s driven, wounded, and haunted by his past—which is exactly why fans can’t get enough of him.
Season 3—A Personal Evolution
In his own words, Hartley said Season 3 will take us “deeper and deeper” into Colter’s psyche. That’s huge. We’ve seen him solve intense cases, dodge bullets, and take emotional hits—but now we’re getting the real story behind the man. Expect inner turmoil, personal revelations, and possibly some unraveling.
“Getting Into the Nitty-Gritty”—What Does That Mean?
More Complex Cases
Think Season 1 and 2 were wild? Buckle up. Season 3 promises cases with higher stakes, darker motives, and no easy answers. Hartley hinted at cases that challenge Colter morally, forcing him to question not just his tactics—but his entire identity.
Emotional Unraveling?
When Hartley talks about going deeper, he’s also referring to trauma—Colter’s past, family wounds, and the cost of being a one-man rescue squad. The emotional baggage that’s been simmering? It’s boiling over in Season 3.
Will We Finally Learn More About Colter’s Family?
The Mystery of the Shaws
Colter’s family backstory has been a mystery from day one. Season 3 could finally pull back the curtain on what really happened to his parents and the deep psychological scars it left behind.
Behind the Scenes—Why This Season Feels Different
More Creative Control for Hartley
As both star and executive producer, Hartley has a hand in shaping Colter’s journey. That means more intentional storytelling, stronger emotional arcs, and plot twists that hit hard.
Deeper Character-Driven Plots
Don’t expect simple “case-of-the-week” vibes. Season 3 leans into serialized storytelling, making each episode count toward a bigger, more personal story.
Exploring the Psychology of a Lone-Wolf Hero
Isolation as a Weapon and a Wound
Colter isn’t surrounded by a team or family. He’s alone by choice—and that loneliness is both his greatest asset and biggest weakness. This season will shine a light on how isolation shapes his behavior, decisions, and emotional world.
High-Stakes Drama: What to Expect
Physical Danger Meets Emotional Peril
Yes, there’ll be action—chases, fights, survival challenges—but the real drama lies in what’s at stake emotionally. Hartley teases that some cases will “break” Colter in new ways.
Returning Cast and New Faces
Familiar Allies Return
We’ll see more of fan-favorite characters like Reenie, Bobby, and perhaps even glimpses of Russell Shaw, Colter’s elusive father.
New Characters, New Conflicts
Season 3 introduces several mysterious new characters—some allies, some not. They’ll test Colter’s trust and push him out of his comfort zone.
Viewer Expectations Are Sky-High
The Pressure Is On
With two hit seasons under its belt, “Tracker” has built a loyal following. Fans are expecting tighter scripts, bolder stories, and bigger emotional payoffs. Hartley and the team know the bar is set high—and they’re ready to clear it.
The Evolution of the “Tracker” Formula
From Procedural to Personal
Season 3 shifts the balance from purely procedural storytelling to a more serialized format. Think more character arcs, connected plots, and cliffhangers you’ll scream about.
What Makes “Tracker” Stand Out in a Crowded Market?
Heart + Mystery + Real Stakes
It’s not just the action—it’s the humanity. “Tracker” walks the line between suspense and soul-searching, making each episode both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
Why Season 3 Could Be a Game-Changer for the Series
This season has the potential to push “Tracker” into Emmy territory. With richer storytelling, deeper performances, and a hero we finally understand inside and out—it’s everything good TV should be.
Final Thoughts: What Justin Hartley’s Tease Really Means
When Hartley says Season 3 is getting into the “nitty-gritty,” he means no fluff, no filler. We’re going raw, emotional, and unapologetically real. Get ready to meet the real Colter Shaw—flaws, fears, and all.
FAQs About “Tracker” Season 3
1. When will “Tracker” Season 3 premiere?
CBS hasn’t announced the exact release date yet, but it’s expected in early 2026, continuing its prime Sunday night slot.
2. Will Colter Shaw face more personal danger this season?
Absolutely. Season 3 will explore both physical threats and deep emotional wounds, making it the most dangerous chapter yet for Colter.
3. Is there a chance of a Colter Shaw romance in Season 3?
Possibly. Justin Hartley hinted that new characters may bring personal complications, including romantic tension.
4. Do I need to watch previous seasons to understand Season 3?
Yes and no. While each episode has a standalone case, the emotional and psychological arcs make more sense with full context.
5. Is Justin Hartley involved behind the camera too?
Yes! Hartley is an executive producer and plays a big role in shaping the story and tone of the series.
