Tracker has become one of the most-watched shows on television after its first two seasons, but series star Justin Hartley is about to start work on some new projects. Hartley’s starring role in Tracker sees him play Colter Shaw, a rewardist who earns a living by finding missing people and items. There is a lot of anticipation for Tracker season 3, but the show is headed for some changes. Hartley is also heading for some professional changes, making Tracker’s future on CBS a little less certain than it was before.
Tracker has become one of the most-watched shows on television after its first two seasons, but series star Justin Hartley is about to start work on some new projects. Hartley’s starring role in Tracker sees him play Colter Shaw, a rewardist who earns a living by finding missing people and items. There is a lot of anticipation for Tracker season 3, but the show is headed for some changes. Hartley is also heading for some professional changes, making Tracker’s future on CBS a little less certain than it was before.
When an actor as beloved as Justin Hartley makes a big career move, the ripple effects are massive. Best known for his roles on This Is Us and now as the lead in CBS’s hit drama Tracker, Hartley has become a household name. But with his latest career shift, fans are buzzing with speculation. Will this decision impact Tracker’s stability on CBS? Let’s break it down and explore what Hartley’s new path means for the future of one of network television’s most promising dramas.
Who Is Justin Hartley?
Before diving into the current drama, let’s quickly recap who Justin Hartley is. If you’ve watched prime-time TV in the last decade, you’ve likely seen him.
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Breakout Role: He first caught attention in Smallville as Green Arrow.
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The Big Leap: His portrayal of Kevin Pearson in This Is Us catapulted him to stardom, earning both critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
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Current Spotlight: Today, he’s the face of Tracker, CBS’s high-stakes action-drama that’s been pulling in impressive ratings.
What Is CBS’s Tracker All About?
If you haven’t tuned in yet, Tracker follows Colter Shaw, played by Hartley, a survivalist and expert tracker who helps solve mysteries, hunt fugitives, and save lives. The show has been praised for blending suspense, action, and emotional storytelling—something CBS desperately needed to freshen up its lineup.
Hartley’s Latest Move: Why Fans Are Talking
So, what exactly did Justin Hartley do to send fans spiraling into speculation? Hartley recently announced involvement in new projects outside of Tracker, including producing and exploring roles in both television and film. While this is great news for his career growth, it has sparked fear among fans that his commitments might pull him away from his CBS drama.
Why Fans Fear For Tracker’s Future
Fans are no strangers to TV shake-ups. They’ve seen favorite shows end abruptly when lead stars shift focus. Remember when Steve Carell left The Office? Or when Patrick Dempsey exited Grey’s Anatomy? Lead actors are often the heartbeat of a series, and Hartley is undoubtedly the soul of Tracker.
Is CBS Really At Risk Of Losing Hartley?
Let’s keep it real—network TV is a business. CBS poured resources into Tracker because of Hartley’s star power. Without him, the show loses its main selling point. But here’s the twist: Hartley isn’t just starring in Tracker—he’s also an executive producer. That dual role means he has more creative control and, likely, more incentive to stick around.
Hollywood’s Balancing Act: Can Hartley Do It All?
Actors often juggle multiple projects at once. Think about Viola Davis starring in How to Get Away with Murder while still landing blockbuster movie roles. It’s demanding, sure, but not impossible. Hartley’s move doesn’t necessarily spell doom for Tracker. Instead, it may signal that he’s expanding his influence beyond acting.
The CBS Connection: Why The Network Needs Him
CBS has been searching for fresh hits that can carry its brand into a new era. With the decline of traditional TV ratings, Tracker’s success is crucial. Losing Hartley would be a huge gamble for the network, which is why CBS is likely doing everything possible to ensure he stays committed.
The Fan Reaction: Panic, Hope, and Speculation
Scroll through Twitter or Reddit, and you’ll see the emotional rollercoaster fans are on:
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Panic: “If Justin leaves, I’m done with CBS!”
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Hope: “Maybe this means he’s bringing more star power to Tracker.”
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Speculation: “What if his new projects compete with CBS’s schedule?”
This mix of reactions shows just how invested viewers are in both Hartley and Tracker.
Industry Experts Weigh In
Entertainment insiders suggest that Hartley’s decision to expand his portfolio doesn’t necessarily mean the end for Tracker. In fact, his involvement in more creative roles might benefit the show. By producing, he could bring higher-quality storytelling and attract new talent.
What Happens If Hartley Leaves?
Let’s play devil’s advocate. If Hartley did step away from Tracker, the show would likely struggle. CBS could attempt to recast or pivot to a different storyline, but history shows audiences rarely accept replacements for beloved leads. Tracker is Justin Hartley’s show. Without him, it loses its identity.
The Bigger Picture: Hartley’s Career Evolution
It’s worth noting that Hartley isn’t the first actor to face this dilemma. He’s joining the ranks of stars who refuse to be boxed in. By producing and expanding his career, he’s making sure he stays relevant in an industry where fame can fade overnight.
Why This Move Could Be a Positive Sign
Rather than signaling the end of Tracker, Hartley’s latest move could mean bigger things are coming. Think spinoffs, crossover episodes, or even new seasons with deeper storylines. His influence as both star and producer gives him the power to shape the show’s future.
What Fans Should Really Expect
Instead of fearing cancellation, fans should prepare for growth. With Hartley steering the ship, Tracker has the potential to become one of CBS’s signature series for years to come. His involvement in other projects might just broaden his network of connections, ultimately benefiting Tracker.
Conclusion
Justin Hartley’s latest career decision has fans biting their nails, but the reality is less grim than the rumors suggest. While juggling multiple projects can be tricky, Hartley’s dual role as actor and producer on Tracker gives him strong reasons to stay invested. Far from being a threat, his expanding career could actually strengthen CBS’s hit drama in the long run. So, instead of worrying, fans should buckle up—because the ride with Tracker and Hartley may just be getting started.
