There is no reason to sugarcoat things when it comes to Tracker. The series is Justin Hartley’s from top to bottom, and that’s something audiences connect with, as it’s one of the biggest shows on television.
Many, including myself, have toyed with the idea of him getting a permanent partner, but the longer the series goes on, the more unattainable that seems. But it does beg the question: what about a spinoff? What about a Tracker-adjacent series to add to the fold? CBS absolutely LOVES a spinoff, as you can tell by its current slate of shows, which has multiple primetime slots dedicated to a series and its offshoots. So, Tracker may be relatively new on the CBS block, but it’s naïve to think that conversations aren’t already taking place about how to capitalize on such a massive hit series.
Television has given us countless unforgettable heroes, but few have captured hearts quite like Russell Shaw from CBS’s hit series Tracker. With his unique blend of wit, grit, and vulnerability, Shaw has become more than just a supporting character—he’s the emotional glue that holds every episode together. It’s time we said it out loud: we deserve “The Russell Shaw Experience.”
Who Is Russell Shaw, Really?
If you’ve been watching Tracker, you already know Russell Shaw isn’t your typical sidekick. Played with magnetic charm by Justin Hartley, Shaw brings both humor and heart to a show built around high-stakes investigations. He’s the character who makes the audience laugh one moment and tear up the next.
But beneath the jokes and quick one-liners, Shaw hides layers of depth—hints of a mysterious past, unspoken trauma, and a loyalty that runs deeper than most characters on TV today. Imagine peeling back those layers in a spinoff series dedicated solely to his journey. Sounds irresistible, right?
Why ‘The Russell Shaw Experience’ Needs To Happen
1. He’s the Soul of the Show
Every great show has that one breakout character who quietly steals every scene. For Tracker, that’s Russell Shaw. His charisma and emotional intelligence give balance to the darker, more procedural side of the series. A spinoff could explore that energy in full, turning him from supporting player to leading man.
2. Untapped Storylines Waiting To Be Told
Shaw’s backstory is a goldmine of narrative potential. We’ve seen glimpses—his strained relationships, flashes of a dangerous past, and his deep moral compass—but there’s still so much we don’t know. A solo show could explore his origin story, uncover the secrets that shaped him, and even introduce new characters tied to his past.
3. Fans Are Already Demanding It
Scroll through social media, and you’ll find it: fans can’t stop talking about Russell Shaw. Memes, edits, and fan theories flood Reddit and TikTok. Many are calling for a Shaw-centric arc, and others have gone further—creating mock posters for a Tracker spinoff titled The Russell Shaw Experience. The fanbase is there; the excitement is real.
The Perfect Premise For The Spinoff
Picture this: Russell Shaw leaves the Tracker team after a mysterious case hits too close to home. He’s haunted by unresolved ghosts from his past—people he couldn’t save, choices he regrets. He begins traveling across the country, using his tracking skills to help those in need while confronting his own demons.
Sounds familiar? Sure—but with Shaw’s humor and charm, it could be Tracker meets Ted Lasso, with a darker emotional undertone. A story about redemption, connection, and what it truly means to find yourself.
Character Depth: What Makes Russell Shaw Stand Out
A Man of Many Layers
Unlike most TV heroes, Russell isn’t polished. He’s messy, funny, and sometimes makes bad choices. But that’s exactly what makes him real. His imperfections make him relatable, his heart makes him unforgettable.
The Power of Vulnerability
Shaw doesn’t hide behind toughness. He’s open about his emotions, even when it costs him. That vulnerability could serve as the backbone of a new series—one where emotional truth takes center stage over flashy action.
Potential Story Arcs For ‘The Russell Shaw Experience’
1. The Ghosts of His Past
A mysterious figure from Shaw’s past resurfaces, forcing him to confront the moment that changed everything.
2. A New Mission
Shaw dedicates himself to helping families find lost loved ones—but this time, he’s doing it alone.
3. The Mentor Becomes the Student
In a twist, Shaw crosses paths with someone younger who reminds him of his former self. Through mentorship, he finds healing.
4. The Emotional Reunion
Could we see a cameo from Colter Shaw? A crossover episode between Tracker and The Russell Shaw Experience would set social media on fire.
A Spinoff With a Message
At its heart, The Russell Shaw Experience wouldn’t just be another procedural drama. It would be about healing, redemption, and resilience. It’s about facing your past to create a better future. In a world full of chaos, that’s a story worth telling.
Why Justin Hartley Is the Perfect Leading Man
Justin Hartley has already proven his acting chops in This Is Us, and his work on Tracker cements him as one of TV’s most versatile actors. He brings a rare authenticity to Russell Shaw—balancing humor, pain, and quiet strength. Giving him a spinoff isn’t just smart—it’s overdue.
How CBS Could Make It Work
1. Keep the Tone Balanced
Blend mystery, drama, and heartfelt storytelling. Fans love Tracker for its emotion-driven cases; The Russell Shaw Experience should double down on that.
2. Expand the Universe
Bring in new cities, characters, and mysteries while maintaining familiar emotional beats. Think The Good Fight spun off from The Good Wife—a world that feels fresh but still connected.
3. Engage the Fanbase Early
Tease the spinoff through Easter eggs, online campaigns, or post-credit scenes. Get fans involved in shaping Shaw’s journey.
Social Media Buzz: The Hashtag Campaign Waiting To Happen
#TheRussellShawExperience would trend in minutes. Imagine teaser trailers, behind-the-scenes clips, and fan art flooding timelines. It’s not just a show—it’s an event.
Critics Would Love It Too
Beyond fan enthusiasm, critics crave complex, character-driven stories. Shaw’s spinoff could hit that sweet spot between emotional depth and adventure—something that appeals to audiences of all ages.
What Makes This Spinoff Different
In a TV landscape filled with reboots and recycled ideas, The Russell Shaw Experience stands out. It’s character-first, emotion-driven, and anchored by one of TV’s most magnetic performances. It’s not about explosions or big twists—it’s about the human experience.
What We Can Learn From Russell Shaw
Shaw’s story reminds us that redemption isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, no matter how messy life gets. His compassion, humor, and resilience mirror the best in all of us.
Conclusion: Give Us The Spinoff Already
It’s rare for a supporting character to inspire this kind of passion. But Russell Shaw isn’t just any character—he’s the heart of Tracker. Fans have spoken, and it’s time CBS listens. The world is ready for “The Russell Shaw Experience.”
