Ever since his first appearance in Season 1’s “Off the Books,” which was one of the more notable hours of the first season (full of various Supernatural references), Russell Shaw has become one of Tracker’s breakout characters. With only two episodes of the show to his name, Russell continued to make a profound impact on Colter’s life even when he was off-screen, and remained a fixture of the series going into Season 2. Of course, with Ackles busy with shows likeCountdown and The Boys(the latter of which is ending soon), Ackles has been extremely busy. But the moment he becomes available again, the CBS program ought to consider swooping him up for a multi-episode arc, hopefully in Tracker Season 3.
While Russell may not be series regular material (though that could certainly change after a compelling multi-episode arc), he could easily be featured in a number of back-to-back episodes as a recurring character. Tracker fans everywhere would certainly eat it up, and it would fall a bit more in-line with the original Jeffery Deaver novels on which the show is based. Of course, part of the reason that we want Ackles’ return is because the chemistry between him and Justin Hartley is always off the charts. Watching Colter and Russell work together (despite their differences) is always loads of fun, and challenges both characters to move past their preconceived notions of one another. And, with Russell around, the show could easily dive a bit deeper into the government conspiracy angle last teased in Season 2’s Russell extravaganza, “Ontological Shock,” which is something Hartley has expressed interest in.
But even more relevant now is that Mary Dove Shaw (Wendy Crewson) may be the one responsible for the murder of their father. If there’s anything that would spark Russell to return home to Echo Ridge or at least meet up again with his younger brother, it would be clearing his own name and seeing justice done for their father. It would be great to see the brothers reunite with their sister, Dory (Michelle Roxburgh), as well, and Season 3 may just be the best time to bring them back for a longer, more meaningful story.
The Jensen Effect on ‘Tracker’
Let’s face it—when Jensen Ackles steps onto the screen, people watch. Whether it’s as Dean Winchester in Supernatural or Soldier Boy in The Boys, Ackles has a way of grabbing your attention and not letting go. And now that he’s guest-starring in Tracker as Russell Shaw, Colter’s estranged brother, the buzz has hit a whole new level.
But here’s the thing—why is he only a guest star?
That’s the question fans are shouting across social media, and honestly, they’ve got a point. Russell Shaw isn’t just a fascinating character. He’s a necessary one. Let’s dive deep into why Ackles’ Russell Shaw deserves a much bigger role in the Tracker universe.
Who Is Russell Shaw in ‘Tracker’?
A Brother With a Complicated Past
Russell Shaw isn’t your typical long-lost sibling plot device. He’s layered, conflicted, and carries emotional baggage that mirrors—and contrasts—Colter Shaw’s own history. Their dynamic isn’t just dramatic, it’s magnetic.
Played by the One and Only Jensen Ackles
Having Jensen Ackles step into this role was a power move. With his charm, grit, and effortless screen presence, he doesn’t just portray Russell—he becomes him. That kind of energy doesn’t belong in the background.
Why Fans Are Obsessed With Russell Shaw
Instant Chemistry With Colter
Justin Hartley and Jensen Ackles share on-screen chemistry that’s electric. Their scenes bounce with tension, unresolved conflict, and, strangely enough, brotherly love. You feel every second.
Mystery Meets Depth
Russell’s past is murky, his motivations unclear—and that’s exactly what makes him compelling. He’s got secrets. Possibly even darker ones than Colter. That’s storytelling gold.
A Foil That Elevates the Lead
Russell’s presence forces Colter to confront his past. He challenges him. Pushes him. Makes him vulnerable. That’s the kind of character that enhances every episode he’s in.
The Ratings Don’t Lie
A Spike in Viewership
Episodes featuring Russell Shaw have seen noticeable bumps in viewer numbers. Coincidence? Hardly. People tuned in for Jensen, and they stuck around because of Russell.
Social Media Engagement Skyrockets
From Twitter (X) threads to TikTok edits, Russell Shaw is everywhere. Fans aren’t just watching—they’re invested. And that kind of organic hype is priceless.
How Russell Could Reshape ‘Tracker’
Expanding the Family Drama
One of the show’s strongest emotional threads is Colter’s fractured family. Bringing Russell in full-time could deepen that theme, giving the story more heart and humanity.
Creating a True Duo Dynamic
Imagine a season where Russell and Colter team up—but with constant tension. Allies one moment, rivals the next. Think Supernatural meets The Fugitive. Sounds pretty irresistible, doesn’t it?
A Spin-Off in the Making?
Russell Shaw could even anchor his own narrative. A past filled with covert missions, survivalist skills, and estranged relationships? That’s a show waiting to happen.
What Showrunners Should Consider
Build Toward a Russell Redemption Arc
We’ve seen hints of Russell’s troubled past—but where’s the payoff? Give us the growth. The struggle. The redemption. That’s how you build a fan-favorite.
Give Him His Own Episodes
Every great supporting character needs their moment. A Russell-centric episode exploring his backstory or solo missions could hook new viewers while giving old fans more depth.
Lean Into Jensen’s Strengths
Ackles thrives when he plays complex, morally gray characters. Write for that. Give him emotional beats, humor, action, and inner conflict. It’s his sweet spot.
The Business Case for More Russell Shaw
Star Power Sells
Jensen Ackles has a built-in fanbase that shows up. His presence alone brings eyes, buzz, and loyalty. That’s the kind of leverage any network should jump on.
Merchandise & Branding Potential
Think posters, limited edition Blu-rays, even Tracker-branded gear featuring Russell’s survivalist edge. The marketing writes itself.
Cross-Promotion Across Platforms
Jensen is active on social media and beloved in fandom spaces. He can promote the show in ways most actors can’t—even landing Tracker into trending territory with a single post.
What the Fans Are Saying
The Hashtag Movement
Search #MoreRussellShaw or #MakeJensenRegular, and you’ll see thousands of fans campaigning for his return. The audience has spoken.
Fan Theories Are Running Wild
From Reddit threads to YouTube breakdowns, viewers are crafting entire season arcs around Russell. The enthusiasm is palpable.
A Cult Following in the Making
It’s not just admiration—it’s obsession. And any character that inspires that kind of following should never be sidelined.
Final Thoughts—Time to Level Up Russell Shaw
It’s clear as day: Tracker has struck gold with Russell Shaw. But gold means nothing if you leave it buried.
Jensen Ackles brings a level of talent, charisma, and story potential that Tracker needs to harness, not limit. Russell Shaw deserves more than a few cameos. He deserves arc, depth, and screen time.
Make him a series regular. Give him meaningful storylines. Let him stir the pot and break our hearts.
Because if Tracker wants to evolve from “just another CBS drama” to must-watch TV, Russell Shaw is the secret weapon they’ve been sitting on.
