A new image from Tracker season 2 reveals the on-screen reunion of Jensen Ackles and Justin Hartley. The show is based on Jeffrey Deaver’s best-selling novel The Never Game. The first season followed Colter Shaw, played by Hartley, a survivalist and tracker for hire, navigating dangerous cases while uncovering the truth about his family’s past. Ackles first played Colter’s estranged brother, Russell, in the penultimate episode of season 1. It was later confirmed that he would return for Tracker season 2. Now, in People’s exclusive first look at Tracker season 2, Ackles’ latest appearance as Russell has been revealed. The publication has released an image of Ackles and Hartley in the upcoming season, which appears to show the on-screen brothers investigating something outdoors. Russell in particular appears to be surprised by what he sees. Check it out below: Jensen and I have known each other for a long time, we just never had the chance to work together. Jensen is the perfect person to play Russell. It’s a character that’s so well-developed in the books and even more so than what we did on the show.
And then Jensen just takes it to the next level.
Additionally, showrunner Elwood Reid revealed that Ackles will appear in “more than one” episode in Tracker season 2. However, the exact number has not been revealed.
This season marks a reunion for Hartley and Ackles, as they both starred on Smallville, where Hartley played Oliver Queen/Green Arrow and Ackles played Jason Teague. However, they have never actually shared scenes together. Hartley first hinted at Ackles’ return to Tracker during the 2024 Television Critics Association Press Tour in July, saying, “We’ve got him; he’s coming back.” Russell’s involvement suggests that Tracker season 2 is keen to continue the storylines established in season 1, and that he could remain a major recurring character.
The ending of Tracker season 1, in which Colter discovered certain information about his father and siblings, sets up an exciting return for Russell in season 2. While it seems like his appearance will continue the storyline surrounding his family and Colter, his first episode of season 2 will feature an even more intriguing storyline. He will appear in episode 2, “Ontological Shock,” which airs on Sunday, October 20. The episode will see Colter disappear while searching for his missing father, while Reenie (Fiona Rene) calls Russell for help.
Ackles and Hartley’s reunion in Tracker season 2 will bring a new energy and momentum to the show. Given their long-standing friendship and eagerness to work together, they will likely have a natural chemistry that will only add to their on-screen dynamic. More exciting action scenes and deeper character development are likely to be on the cards this season, as well as more plot twists, emotional depth, and dramatic confrontations. Additionally, it seems like Tracker has big plans for Russell, and it will be interesting to see more of his character in the future.
