Tracker may thrive on its case-of-the-week format and Colter Shaw’s lone-wolf appeal, but that doesn’t mean it couldn’t benefit from a stronger supporting cast. Graise and McEnany’s characters offered a glimpse of what the show could become with more continuity. Bobby’s loyalty and Velma’s offbeat charm helped build a grounded world around Colter, even if neither was ever fully developed. Without them, the series risks feeling increasingly thin, relying solely on guest stars and losing the connective tissue that gives viewers a reason to invest beyond the case of the week.
This underuse became especially noticeable in Season 2, just as fans were hoping the show would start expanding Colter’s world. The solving of his long-cold case, deepening complications with his family, and Reenie’s growing tension with her new client all hinted at a more serialized direction. But Bobby and Velma’s reduced roles suggested otherwise. Both characters appeared less frequently and were largely relegated to brief phone calls or exposition dumps, rarely given meaningful screen time or interactions with Colter.
Now, with their exits confirmed, Colter is left without the small but memorable support system audiences have come to know and love. The early departure of Robin Weigert ahead of Season 2 made it clear that Tracker was willing to part with familiar faces. And while Bobby’s cousin Randy, played by the hilarious and charming Chris Lee, was a fun addition, it was still hard not to feel the absence of Bobby himself. It’s unclear whether Lee will return for Season 3, but his presence alone isn’t enough to replace the consistency and connection that characters like Bobby and Velma offered.
To be fair, Tracker was never pitched as a team drama, and Hartley has done an extraordinary job anchoring the series. His character’s journey, and the show’s structure of placing him in a new location each week with a rotating cast of guest stars, has clearly resonated with audiences. Tracker has maintained strong ratings and remains a reliable hit for CBS. But as the show heads into its third season, one question looms: Can that formula continue to hold viewer interest without evolving? Or will some of the recurring guest stars around Colter step into more permanent roles to help expand the show’s world?
When fans tuned into Tracker Season 2, expectations were sky-high. Justin Hartley continued to carry the show as Colter Shaw, but something felt… off. Two standout characters—Bobby and Velma—barely got the attention they deserved. While the show kept us on our toes with twists and thrilling cases, it left fans wondering: Where were Bobby and Velma? Let’s break it all down—from screen time disappointments to the missed story arcs that could’ve elevated the entire season.
Tracker’s Supporting Stars Deserved the Spotlight
Meet Bobby and Velma — The Brains Behind the Hunt
Let’s be real—Colter Shaw is the muscle, the tracker, the man-on-the-ground. But Bobby and Velma? They’re the ones feeding him intel, decrypting clues, and making sure he doesn’t walk into danger blindfolded.
Bobby is the genius behind the tech. A cyber-sleuth with a knack for finding needles in digital haystacks.
Velma? She’s cool under pressure, sharp as a tack, and absolutely essential for strategy.
Season 1 Set Them Up for Greatness
In Season 1, both Bobby and Velma stood out. They weren’t just sidekicks—they were trusted allies with distinct personalities and vital skills. Fans began to look forward to Bobby’s sarcastic wit and Velma’s brilliant one-liners.
We got just enough of them to care, but not enough to be satisfied.
What Went Wrong in Season 2?
Reduced Screen Time, Reduced Impact
It’s not just your imagination—Bobby and Velma were noticeably absent in key episodes. Compared to Season 1, their appearances were sporadic, their roles diluted.
From Scene-Stealers to Background Noise
While Colter took on more complex cases, Bobby and Velma were reduced to glorified voiceovers. A few minutes here, a quick call there. They became tools, not characters.
Missed Opportunities That Could’ve Elevated the Show
No Character Growth or Backstories
Bobby’s tech background? Velma’s motivations? Nada. We didn’t get a single peek into their personal lives. Imagine the depth that could’ve been added if we saw Bobby hacking for personal reasons or Velma juggling family with work.
No High-Stakes Moments
In a show packed with danger, Bobby and Velma were oddly untouched. No close calls, no moral dilemmas, no thrilling moments. They deserved their own arcs and stakes—not just to be behind a screen.
Why Their Roles Matter in a Crime-Drama
You Can’t Track Without the Tech
Every great tracker needs eyes and ears in the digital world. Bobby’s skills are irreplaceable, and Velma’s tactical support can make or break a mission.
Emotional Anchors for Colter
Bobby and Velma also keep Colter grounded. Their friendships and trust are what humanize him. Without them, he feels more like a lone wolf than a connected hero.
How Season 2 Could’ve Done It Better
A Parallel Investigation Episode
Imagine an episode where Colter is off-grid—and Bobby and Velma take the lead. They solve a case through pure wit and remote detective work. That’s good TV.
Flashback-Driven Arcs
Flashbacks revealing how Bobby became a tech genius or Velma’s military past? That would add layers of intrigue and fan investment.
Give Them Field Time
Why not send Velma into the field? Show Bobby navigating a surveillance setup under pressure. They’re more than sidekicks—they’re potential co-leads.
What the Fans Are Saying
Social Media Backlash
Twitter, Reddit, and Facebook lit up during Season 2 with posts like:
“Why is Bobby just a voice this season?”
“Velma deserves better than a three-minute cameo!”
It’s clear fans were expecting more—and they’re not wrong.
Balancing Star Power with Ensemble Strength
Yes, Justin Hartley is a star. But every great show understands the power of an ensemble. Shows like Criminal Minds, NCIS, and The Blacklist thrived because supporting characters mattered.
Imagine Tracker embracing that same formula—Colter as the lead, but Bobby and Velma as the glue.
What Season 3 Needs to Do Differently
Prioritize Development for Bobby and Velma
We’re talking dedicated arcs. Maybe Bobby faces a crisis of conscience over a hack. Maybe Velma has a secret that complicates a mission. Depth = engagement.
Build Their Dynamic with Colter
Let us see arguments, trust-building, tension. Give us the why behind their loyalty, not just the what.
Give Them Screen Time That Matters
Cut down on filler scenes, and reinvest in Bobby and Velma’s presence. Dialogue, drama, decisions—they need to be central, not peripheral.
Final Thoughts – Time to Use the Full Team
Tracker has all the ingredients for greatness. But like a recipe missing two key spices, Season 2 felt incomplete without giving Bobby and Velma their due.
It’s not about fan service—it’s about storytelling. And if Season 3 wants to level up, the solution is simple:
Use every character. Tell every story. Make every minute count.
