BS Reveals First Look and Character Details for Jensen Ackles’ Next TV Series Role
Deadline revealed that Tracker’s penultimate episode will focus heavily on the brotherly relationship (or rivalry) between brothers Colter and Russell Shaw (played by Justin Hartley and Jensen Ackles). CBS has also reportedly confirmed that Ackles’ character will be introduced in the penultimate episode of Season 1, “Off The Books,” which airs on May 12. Colter’s contentious history with Russell has been referenced multiple times throughout the season, building anticipation for Russell’s appearance on the series. Hartley’s recent announcement of Ackles’ casting has also fueled excitement among the show’s growing fan base.
CBS also released the first look at Ackles’ appearance on the show, along with a synopsis for his debut episode: “Colter is forced to team up with his estranged brother, Russell, who enlists his help in tracking down an old military buddy who has gone missing after weeks of paranoid behavior. The investigation takes the brothers into a world of Special Forces missions, shadowy off-the-books programs, and conspiracy theories, as they wrestle with their family’s past.” While the synopsis appears to be a typical, by-the-numbers episode of the series, the preview image begs for an uncanny reference to Ackles’ journey on The CW’s Supernatural.
Tracker teases troubled family dynamics Tracker gradually lays out Colter Shaw’s backstory through flashbacks as the season progresses. Raised by parents who were “professors at Berkeley until this incident with my dad,” Colter shared an unconventional childhood with Russell and his younger sister Dory (played by Melissa Roxburgh, who will debut in Episode 11). Their family went off-grid to deal with a personal threat, growing up as backwoods survivors until a tragic event left Colter distrustful of his brother’s motives. Colter has since ignored Russell’s attempts to reconnect, making their reunion in Episode 12 all the more compelling. Tracker continues to draw in strong viewership amid positive reviews from audiences and critics (it currently has a certified fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes); many agree that the series has a similar wholesome appeal to Prime Video’s Reacher. CBS has greenlit Tracker for a second season following its positive reception and breakout debut. The show concluded its first season on May 19.
