Since Tracker premiered on CBS, Justin Hartley has taken it upon himself to remind viewers that his character Colter Shaw can – and will – die. Based on Jeffery Deaver‘s novel The Never Game, Tracker centers around a survivalist named Colter who travels the country helping find missing people (or sometimes dogs) and solving cases others wouldn’t. As the series unfolds, viewers learn more about how Colter’s past shaped his current life as a lone wolf. Hartley not only stars on the show, but he also serves as an executive producer alongside This Is Us producer and director Ken Olin. His role behind the scenes has allowed Hartley to surprise fans with exciting guest stars – but it has also kept the actor grounded about where the show will go.
“I just love that when you watch a show like that and you tune into season 1 and then you tune into the last season, you see the development of the character and you go, ‘Wait a minute, are they playing different roles?’ But then if you watch it throughout the years, you experience those things with the characters,” he told TV Insider in September 2024. “As competent and confident as Colter is, I don’t at all think for a second that he doesn’t have a ton to learn, especially about himself and his family and all that.” He continued: “Going forward, I think that will be how the show lives on a long runway, is that we keep developing this character and he becomes better at what he’s doing. He’s a restless man, and for an audience member, at least shows that I love to watch, you love to see that growth of a character and we have that.”
In addition to showing Us Colter’s growth, Hartley warned that the character isn’t immortal. He even hinted that the fan-favorite lead could die as the remainder of the Tracker cast faces shakeups.
The Truth Bomb That Shook Tracker Fans
If you’re a die-hard fan of Tracker, you’re probably still reeling from what Justin Hartley just said. In a recent interview, the star of the hit CBS series revealed something that sent shockwaves across the fandom: Colter Shaw will die. Yep, you read that right. The man who chases down the missing and uncovers dark truths might not be invincible after all.
Let’s break down what Hartley said, why it matters, and what it could mean for the future of Tracker.
Who Is Colter Shaw? A Quick Recap
The Modern-Day Nomad
Colter Shaw is the lone wolf with a conscience. A survivalist who travels the country in an Airstream trailer, solving crimes and finding missing persons for reward money.
Played by Justin Hartley
Known for his role in This Is Us, Hartley brings a compelling blend of grit, charisma, and emotional depth to Colter — making him more than just a bounty hunter with a moral compass.
What Exactly Did Justin Hartley Say?
In an interview that sent fans spiraling, Hartley bluntly stated:
“He will die.”
No sugarcoating. No dodging. That was the answer when asked whether Colter is invincible in the long run.
The Weight of That Statement
Breaking the Illusion of Immortality
TV protagonists tend to have plot armor — you assume they’ll survive everything. But Hartley’s comment pulls back the curtain. Colter isn’t safe.
Real Stakes, Real Drama
By admitting Colter’s mortality, Hartley adds gravity to each episode. Suddenly, every chase, every shootout, every close call? It all matters more.
A Character Built on Trauma and Danger
Colter’s Dark Backstory
He’s not just a hero — he’s haunted by his father’s death, family secrets, and a relentless need to uncover the truth. He walks into danger like it’s a daily routine.
Survival Isn’t Guaranteed
Colter may know how to track people in the woods or escape from a hostage situation, but one slip could cost him everything.
Why This Shocking Reveal Matters to the Plot
Foreshadowing Future Twists
Writers may now have the green light to craft a darker, more intense arc. Fans can expect edge-of-your-seat tension — and potentially, a gut-wrenching ending.
Could Season Finales Get Deadly?
Don’t be surprised if Tracker starts planting seeds for Colter’s eventual downfall — emotionally or physically.
Psychological Depth: Making Colter Human
Vulnerability Creates Connection
We root for characters who feel real. By acknowledging Colter’s mortality, Hartley reminds us that even heroes bleed.
No More Superhero Syndrome
He’s not Batman. He doesn’t have a utility belt or a safe escape plan. He has instincts, trauma, and pure grit.
Will This Affect the Show’s Direction?
Absolutely.
Writers may lean more into themes of risk, loss, and the cost of justice. The series could evolve from procedural to existential thriller.
Audience Reaction: A Mixed Bag
Fans Are Shocked — But Hooked
Some took to social media with disbelief. Others praised Hartley for keeping it real. But nearly everyone agreed: they’re more invested than ever.
Justin Hartley’s Commitment to Storytelling
He’s Not Just the Star — He’s a Producer
That means Hartley’s insight shapes the direction of the series. If he’s talking mortality, you can bet the show is headed toward more intense and authentic storytelling.
The Emotional Toll of Being Colter
He’s Always on the Edge
Each episode strips a little more of Colter’s emotional armor. He’s losing trust, sleep, and maybe even his will to keep going.
Source Material Hints: Based on Jeffrey Deaver’s Work
The Novels Are Gritty and Realistic
In the original books, Colter isn’t invincible either. While he doesn’t die in the novels (yet), the stories flirt with danger constantly.
Could Colter’s Death Be Symbolic?
Maybe Not Literal… Yet
Hartley’s words could imply a spiritual death — a transformation, a point of no return, or a dramatic pivot in Colter’s identity.
What Keeps Tracker So Addictive?
It’s More Than Crime-Solving
It’s about a man constantly walking the line between justice and self-destruction. That emotional tension is why we can’t look away.
Will Justin Hartley Leave the Show?
No Signs Yet
While the comment sounds final, there’s no official word of an exit. Think of it more as a long-term narrative arc — not an immediate death sentence.
Final Thoughts: Why This Matters
Justin Hartley isn’t just teasing fans. He’s laying the foundation for a more thrilling, unpredictable journey. If Tracker is about chasing truth, then Hartley just gave us one: Colter’s time is limited, and that makes every moment count.
Conclusion: Mortality Makes the Story Matter
In a world of predictable plotlines and indestructible leads, Justin Hartley just flipped the script. His raw statement — “He will die” — reminds us that storytelling is at its best when the stakes are real. Colter Shaw may not be immortal, but that’s exactly what makes him unforgettable.
