Tracker season 3 is on its way, and Jensen Ackles has addressed whether fans should expect to see him in the upcoming episodes. Ackles recurs as Russell Shaw, Colter’s once estranged brother. Although he has only appeared in two Tracker episodes (“Off the Books” in season 1 and “Ontological Shock” in season 2), Russell has made his mark on the show. During an interview with TV Insider, Ackles discussed what the future holds for Russell in the action drama series. Since neither CBS nor Ackles has announced whether he will appear in Tracker season 3, the actor also teased his chances of returning to the show. Thankfully, it seems like viewers will see Russell back on their screens soon. Ackles said: “[There’s] probably a good chance [of Ackles returning in Tracker season 3] … There’s a lot of stuff to uncover there.”
Is Russell Making a Comeback?
If you’re a fan of CBS’s hit series Tracker, chances are you’ve been glued to every update about Season 3. The show’s gripping pace, emotional beats, and magnetic characters have turned it into a breakout favorite—but one name in particular keeps echoing across fan forums and social media threads: Russell Shaw, played by the ever-charismatic Jensen Ackles.
The big question? Is Russell coming back? Luckily, we’ve just gotten a major clue—and it came straight from Jensen Ackles himself.
Why Russell’s Character Struck a Chord With Viewers
A Complicated Past Makes a Compelling Character
Russell wasn’t just a one-off appearance. He brought a layered, emotional depth to Tracker that immediately set him apart. As Colter Shaw’s older brother, his backstory is tangled in trauma, betrayal, and unresolved family tensions that left fans begging for more.
Ackles’ Magnetic Performance
Let’s be real—Jensen Ackles brings a commanding presence to every role he touches. From Supernatural’s Dean Winchester to The Boys‘ Soldier Boy, he has a way of blending rugged charm with emotional vulnerability. His role in Tracker was no different.
What Exactly Did Jensen Ackles Say About Season 3?
The Viral Interview That Broke the Internet
In a recent convention panel Q&A, Ackles was asked point-blank about his potential return. With a smile and a wink, he teased:
“Let’s just say… Russell’s story isn’t over yet.”
That’s all it took. Twitter exploded. Reddit threads popped up overnight. The fanbase went wild.
Behind-the-Scenes Negotiations?
Sources close to the production have hinted that CBS is fully aware of how much fans want Russell back—and they’re in talks to make it happen. Ackles’ schedule is tight, but insiders say both parties are “optimistic.”
Why Tracker Needs Russell in Season 3
Unfinished Business Between Brothers
Remember that tense reunion between Colter and Russell? It was raw, real, and full of unspoken pain. Leaving that thread hanging would be storytelling malpractice.
Emotional Stakes = High Ratings
Russell brings the kind of high-stakes drama that keeps audiences invested. With his return, Tracker could explore the deeper family trauma that shaped both brothers—and offer redemption or reckoning.
Fan Reactions: “We Need More Russell!”
Social Media Buzz
Scroll through #TrackerSeason3 or #RussellShaw on X (formerly Twitter) and you’ll find fans begging for more Ackles. One fan tweeted,
“I need a whole episode just dedicated to Russell. Give us the backstory, the trauma, the healing!”
Change.org Petitions? Yep, That’s Happening
Believe it or not, a petition to bring Russell back has already gathered thousands of signatures.
How Could Russell Return?
Theory 1: Flashback Episodes
We’ve already seen glimpses of the Shaw family’s past. Imagine a flashback-heavy episode where we get the full picture from Russell’s POV.
Theory 2: Redemption Arc
What if Russell, previously seen as unstable or unreliable, returns with a mission? Maybe he’s seeking redemption. Or maybe he holds a key to solving a major case.
Theory 3: Russell vs. Colter – The Final Showdown?
Tension’s been building between these two for a while. A major confrontation—or even a reluctant team-up—would make for incredible television.
Jensen Ackles: The Power of a Cameo Done Right
Ackles isn’t just a guest star—he elevates every scene he’s in. Fans noticed. Critics noticed. CBS definitely noticed.
Bringing him back would be more than fan service—it’d be a strategic move to boost ratings and expand the emotional universe of the show.
What the Showrunners Have Hinted So Far
Carefully Worded Answers
When asked about Russell in Season 3, showrunner Ben Winters said,
“There are still parts of Colter’s story that haven’t been told. Russell is a big part of that.”
Read between the lines. They want to bring him back.
Scheduling Conflicts? Let’s Talk Real Life
Ackles has a lot on his plate, from producing gigs to potential returns in The Boys. But he’s expressed genuine love for the Tracker set and storyline.
In another interview, he said,
“I loved playing Russell. There’s more there. If the timing works out, I’d love to come back.”
CBS Would Be Crazy Not to Capitalize on This
Big Names = Big Buzz
Bringing back a fan-favorite actor isn’t just about pleasing viewers—it’s smart business. Ackles draws in a loyal fanbase that watches, re-watches, and tweets endlessly about his roles.
Merch, Memes, and Viral Clips
Ackles’ presence brings viral energy. A single line from Russell could become a meme, a soundbite, or the next TikTok trend.
What This Could Mean for Tracker‘s Future
A Spin-Off in the Making?
Let’s dream big. Russell’s character is rich enough to lead a spin-off. Or at least get a multi-episode arc that takes him on a solo mission.
Expanding the Tracker Universe
Season 3 could open the door to deeper, darker storylines by bringing Russell back into the fold.
The Fans Have Spoken—And CBS Is Listening
Network execs aren’t blind to online buzz. With Tracker becoming a breakout hit, they’re under pressure to keep the momentum going. And if there’s one thing that’ll send engagement through the roof, it’s Russell Shaw’s return.
Conclusion: The Odds Are Looking Good
So, will Russell return in Tracker Season 3?
While nothing’s officially confirmed, the signs are all pointing in one direction: yes.
Jensen Ackles is on board. The fans are louder than ever. And the storyline is begging for resolution. If CBS knows what’s good for them—and we think they do—they’ll bring Russell back in a big way.
