Jensen Ackles is one of those actors we’re seeing everywhere. He’s currently on Prime Video with Countdown and he’ll be in The Boys season 5 very soon. Plus, he has a Boys spinoff series with Aya Cash coming! So, is there really time for him to be in Tracker season 3?
Ackles guest starred in an episode of Tracker season 1, bringing us Colter’s older brother, Russell. For the longest time, we believed that Russell had something to do with Ashton’s death, but it turned out that Russell had seen someone else in the woods with their dad that night. He then returned in the second season for a couple of episodes, before heading off doing his own thing again.
Jensen Ackles offers some hopeful news about Tracker season 3
Ackles talked to Collider about the potential return, sharing that it is something that is being discussed at the moment. He is more than happy to return to this role, sharing that he’s had fun working with Justin Hartley, who is also his friend as well as a Tracker colleague. Ackles talked to Collider about the potential return, sharing that it is something that is being discussed at the moment. He is more than happy to return to this role, sharing that he’s had fun working with Justin Hartley, who is also his friend as well as a Tracker colleague. “We are discussing that as we speak. That is being talked about, so yeah, I would hope so. Justin [Hartley] is a dear friend of mine and getting to play with him is always a fun thing. So, yeah, there are talks of bringing me back. To what capacity, I’m not sure yet.”
This is great news for fans of the series. Watching the two on screen makes it clear that they are friends in real life. You can tell that they have a bond, as they act like genuine brothers when they’re acting. So, it’s all about schedules. As mentioned, Ackles is busy with other projects. The good news is that he’s finished his work on Countdown and The Boys season 5, so it’ll be the spinoff of The Boys that’s coming up and potentially going to create a problem. The benefit of Ackles being on Tracker in a guest role is that it can often be worked around to get him on set. Yes, Ackles also does a lot of Supernatural conventions as well, but they come after production work. He may be confirmed for a convention but have to cancel at the last minute due to the way his filming schedule has to work out.
The Ackles Effect: Why Fans Are Buzzing About His Return
If you’re a fan of Tracker, you probably lost your mind when Jensen Ackles stepped onto the screen in Season 2. His role as Russell Shaw, the tough-as-nails brother of Colter Shaw, brought the perfect dose of mystery, grit, and charisma. But now, fans are asking the million-dollar question: Will Jensen Ackles return in Tracker Season 3? Let’s dig into what the star himself has revealed — and why his return could change everything.
Jensen Ackles — A Force in Genre TV
From Dean Winchester to Russell Shaw
Jensen Ackles is no stranger to the world of action-packed drama. His portrayal of Dean Winchester in Supernatural turned him into a pop culture icon. So, when Tracker introduced him as Colter’s estranged brother, fans instantly took notice.
Why Ackles Fits Perfectly Into the Tracker Universe
Ackles brings a mix of rugged charm, intensity, and emotional depth. He didn’t just “guest star” — he commanded attention. His chemistry with Justin Hartley lit up the screen, especially in those tense sibling moments.
The Season 2 Cliffhanger: A Door Left Wide Open
Russell Shaw’s Fate — A Mystery Yet to Be Solved
Let’s not forget how Season 2 ended — with Colter and Russell parting ways on uneasy terms. That wasn’t closure. That was a setup. Fans know an open-ended exit when they see one.
Could Season 3 Bring Redemption or Revenge?
Whether Russell is coming back for a redemption arc or a full-blown rivalry, the stage is set. His reappearance could introduce a family feud that reshapes the entire series.
Jensen Ackles Speaks: What He Actually Said About Coming Back
The Tease That Broke the Internet
In a recent podcast interview, Ackles was asked about Tracker. His response? “Let’s just say Russell’s story isn’t finished.” That’s it. One sentence. But for fans? It was enough to explode theories and Reddit threads alike.
Behind the Scenes: Talks with the Creators
Ackles also hinted that he’s “had conversations” with the creative team. If that doesn’t scream ongoing negotiations, what does?
How Russell Shaw’s Return Could Transform the Show
From Lone Wolf to Family Drama
So far, Tracker has focused on Colter Shaw’s solo missions. Adding Russell back into the mix opens the door to a more layered narrative — think The Fugitive meets This Is Us.
H3: A New Direction: Dual Perspectives
Imagine following both brothers. One tracking justice. The other running from it — or maybe, seeking his own version of it.
What Fans Are Saying Online
Twitter’s Obsession with #BringBackRussell
Social media has been flooded with requests for more Russell. Hashtags like #AcklesInTracker and #RussellReturns have been trending ever since the Season 2 finale aired.
Fan Theories That Might Actually Be Right
Some fans believe Russell may have ties to Colter’s missing father. Others think he’s being set up as Season 3’s big antagonist. The truth? Possibly somewhere in between — and that’s exactly why we want him back.
The Impact of Ackles on Ratings
Numbers Don’t Lie
Episodes featuring Ackles saw a noticeable spike in viewership. The mid-season episode with his debut even outperformed the premiere in some markets. That kind of pull is rare.
Network Incentives to Bring Him Back
With FOX already renewing Tracker for another season, keeping the momentum alive is key. Ackles offers built-in audience appeal — and executives know it.
How His Return Could Set Up a Spinoff
Russell’s Own Path?
A recurring theory? Tracker: Russell’s Reckoning. Fans are dreaming up spinoff possibilities already. Could FOX be thinking the same?
Obstacles in the Way of a Full-Time Return
Scheduling Conflicts
Ackles has a packed calendar. From voice work to The Boys and his production company, fitting Tracker into his schedule won’t be simple.
Creative Challenges
Writers will need to tread carefully. Russell’s return has to feel organic — not like fan service. But with good writing? It could be epic.
What Justin Hartley Thinks About It
Hartley and Ackles: A Dynamic Duo
In interviews, Justin Hartley has gushed about working with Ackles. He even joked that he wouldn’t mind turning Tracker into a “buddy show.” Whether he meant it seriously or not, fans are definitely onboard.
What Season 3 Could Look Like With Russell Shaw
More Conflict, More Emotion, More Stakes
A Russell return isn’t just exciting — it’s strategic. It adds emotional layers to Colter’s story and offers the kind of brother-versus-brother drama TV lives for.
The Verdict — Will He or Won’t He?
Right now, nothing’s confirmed. But between Ackles’ hints, the open narrative threads, and fan demand, all signs point toward at least a recurring role in Season 3.
How You Can Help Make It Happen
Tag, Share, Stream
Want more Ackles in Tracker? Let the network hear it. Tweet, post, tag FOX and Ackles. The louder the fandom, the better the odds.
Conclusion: A Return Worth Fighting For
Jensen Ackles’ return to Tracker isn’t just wishful thinking — it’s a logical next step for a show that wants to grow. His presence added depth, fire, and unpredictability. Whether he comes back as a hero, a villain, or something in between, one thing’s for sure: Season 3 needs Russell Shaw.
