CBS is already the place to be for fall TV but the network found a new way to surprise viewers with a fun glimpse at their upcoming lineup courtesy of some cast crossovers — starting with Tracker‘s Justin Hartley and Blue Bloods‘ Donnie Wahlberg. In Us Weekly‘s exclusive first look at the fun footage, CBS celebrated their fall TV schedule by bringing cast members from different shows together to tease what fans can expect from returning — and new — programs.
When it comes to fall TV, CBS knows how to make headlines. This time, it’s not just about new seasons or fresh premieres—it’s about crossovers. Yes, CBS is cooking up cast crossovers that could rival even the most ambitious shared universes in Hollywood. And front and center in this strategy? Justin Hartley’s hit drama Tracker.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about CBS’s big fall crossover tease, what it means for your favorite shows, and why this strategy could be a total game-changer for network television.
What’s the Buzz Around CBS Crossovers?
CBS has hinted at something bold—crossovers that weave storylines across its biggest series. Imagine characters from NCIS, FBI, or even Blue Bloods suddenly stepping into Tracker. The network is teasing what could be the next big “TV universe.”
Justin Hartley’s ‘Tracker’ at the Center
Justin Hartley, best known for his emotional role in This Is Us, is now CBS’s golden boy with Tracker. The show follows Colter Shaw, a lone-wolf survivalist who uses his skills to solve mysteries. With its growing fanbase, Tracker is perfectly positioned as a hub for crossovers.
Why Crossovers Are Such a Big Deal
Crossovers aren’t just about fun cameos. They boost ratings, spark social media buzz, and give fans a reason to binge-watch multiple shows. Think about it: if FBI characters show up in Tracker, fans from both sides tune in. It’s a win-win.
Could CBS Create Its Own Marvel-Style Universe?
Marvel did it for movies, why can’t CBS do it for TV dramas? Imagine a universe where NCIS, FBI, Tracker, and even The Equalizer share a connected timeline. Suddenly, network TV becomes an interconnected world, keeping fans glued week after week.
Tracker Meets NCIS? Here’s What It Could Look Like
Picture this: Colter Shaw gets called in to assist an NCIS investigation involving survivalist tactics. Gibbs might be retired, but Torres and Knight could cross paths with Shaw. That mix of crime-solving and survival skills? Pure gold.
FBI and Tracker: A Perfect Fit
FBI is all about high-stakes crime, while Tracker thrives on mystery and manhunts. A joint case where Shaw helps track down a fugitive could feel like an action-packed two-night event.
Blue Bloods and Tracker: An Unexpected Crossover
What if Shaw ended up in New York and clashed—or teamed up—with the Reagan family from Blue Bloods? Imagine Frank Reagan trying to understand Shaw’s rogue methods. The drama practically writes itself.
The Equalizer Factor
Queen Latifah’s Robyn McCall teaming up with Colter Shaw? That’s a powerhouse duo. Both characters are lone wolves with a sense of justice, but their methods couldn’t be more different. Fans would eat this up.
Why CBS Is Playing the Long Game
Crossovers aren’t just hype—they’re strategy. CBS is facing competition from streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+. By creating interconnected shows, the network keeps viewers loyal and builds anticipation across multiple nights of TV.
Fan Reactions: Social Media Is Already Exploding
Even without official details, fans are buzzing. Twitter and Reddit are filled with speculation, with some already comparing CBS’s idea to the Chicago franchise on NBC. The difference? CBS has even more heavy-hitting shows to play with.
Justin Hartley’s Role in CBS’s Future
Hartley isn’t just starring in Tracker. With his growing influence, he could become the face of CBS’s fall lineup. Think of him as the “Iron Man” of this TV universe—the anchor character who ties everything together.
Challenges CBS Faces
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Crossovers require careful writing, scheduling, and coordination. One wrong move and fans could see it as a gimmick. CBS needs to balance fan service with authentic storytelling.
The Money Angle
Let’s not forget: crossovers aren’t just about storytelling—they’re about dollars. Ratings spikes mean higher ad revenue. And if CBS nails it, merchandising and streaming deals could follow.
Why Viewers Should Be Excited
If you love suspense, drama, and big TV moments, this crossover tease is a dream come true. It’s not just about one show anymore—it’s about building a television event that makes every week feel like must-see TV.
Looking Ahead: The Future of CBS Crossovers
This fall could be the start of something huge. If CBS pulls it off, we might see a yearly tradition of epic crossover events. Think of it like TV’s version of Avengers: Endgame—only spread across primetime nights.
Conclusion
CBS is swinging for the fences this fall, and Tracker with Justin Hartley is right at the heart of it. By teasing crossovers, the network is hinting at something bigger than just individual shows—it’s about creating an interconnected TV universe that keeps fans invested. If done right, this could be the boldest move CBS has made in years.
