The hit CBS series Tracker thrives on its case-of-the-week format, regularly dropping Colter Shaw (Justin Hartley) into unfamiliar towns and pairing him with local law enforcement. Typically, Colter’s outsider status and unconventional approach, working more on instinct than formal training, create friction with some of the detectives he encounters. These partnerships are often marked by tension, mistrust, or outright hostility, forcing Colter to manage egos and territorial clashes while solving his cases. However, the episode “Collision” flips that familiar dynamic in the best way possible, introducing a detective who, from the outset, appreciates and respects Colter’s presence in her small town. This refreshing shift establishes a dynamic compelling enough to argue that this shouldn’t be the last time audiences see them working together.
Let’s be real — Tracker isn’t short on action, mystery, or charisma. Justin Hartley’s Colter Shaw is a rugged, nomadic survivalist who tracks down people for reward money. But let’s be honest for a second… didn’t that detective steal the show the moment he walked on screen?
Whether it was his razor-sharp instincts, deadpan delivery, or that no-nonsense vibe, fans couldn’t stop buzzing about him. And that’s the problem — we’ve only seen him once. Why is a character that good not already a regular? Let’s break down why this detective deserves a permanent spot on Tracker, and why making him a recurring character could be the best decision the show ever makes.
The Detective Who Quietly Took Over The Episode
A Scene-Stealer From The Moment He Appeared
There’s a certain magnetic pull this detective brings — it’s like Clint Eastwood walked onto the set with a badge and a brain. His presence was sharp. He didn’t shout or showboat, but you couldn’t take your eyes off him. That’s storytelling gold.
Layered, Mysterious, And Totally Binge-Worthy
One of the greatest strengths of this character? Depth. You could feel that backstory boiling just beneath the surface — pain, losses, victories, all hidden behind a tough exterior. That’s the kind of mystery that keeps viewers glued to the screen.
What Makes A Great Recurring Character?
Consistency With Flexibility
A recurring character doesn’t need to hog the spotlight — they just need to bring continuity. This detective fits that mold perfectly. He can slide into any episode, stir things up, challenge Colter, or even provide unexpected help.
Chemistry With The Lead Character
Let’s talk tension — the good kind. The kind that makes scenes pop. When this detective and Colter shared the screen, the sparks flew. Not romantic sparks — professional, adversarial, you-don’t-know-if-they’ll-fight-or-shake-hands kind of sparks. That’s TV gold.
How Recurring Characters Drive Engagement
Fans Love Familiar Faces
Think about your favorite series. There’s always that character you hope shows up. Even if just for five minutes. Why? Because they bring balance, nostalgia, and unpredictability — all at once.
Fueling Fan Theories and Online Buzz
Recurring characters become the foundation of fan theories. Viewers ask: “Will he show up again?” “What’s his past with Colter?” “Could he be a future villain or ally?” That’s exactly the kind of speculation that drives social media engagement.
How ‘Tracker’ Can Seamlessly Integrate Him
A Partner In Certain Cases
Sometimes Colter needs help. Who better than a detective with insider knowledge and street smarts? The dynamic duo setup has worked since Sherlock and Watson — no reason Tracker can’t follow suit.
A Reluctant Ally or Antagonist
The best recurring characters blur lines. Maybe one episode he’s helping Colter. In the next? He’s in the way. That unpredictability is chef’s kiss for storytelling.
Flashback Episodes & Shared History
You want depth? Let’s get a backstory! A flashback episode revealing their first meeting, a shared case gone wrong, or a betrayal that still lingers — all that adds texture and tension.
What The Fans Are Saying
Twitter, Reddit, and Fan Forums Are On Fire
Just scroll through Tracker threads and you’ll see the same name pop up again and again. Fans want more. They don’t just like him — they’re emotionally invested. That’s rare.
Viewers Crave Characters With Grit
This detective hits that sweet spot between heroic and antihero. He’s tough, morally complex, and walks the gray line — exactly what modern audiences crave.
Lessons From Other Shows That Did It Right
Think ‘Breaking Bad’s’ Mike Ehrmantraut
Mike wasn’t in every episode. But when he appeared, he mattered. He became essential. That’s the model Tracker should follow.
Or ‘Stranger Things’ With Steve Harrington
Remember how Steve started as a jerk? Then fans loved him so much, the writers transformed him into a fan-favorite babysitter/hero. Audience power is real — and writers should listen.
Potential Story Arcs To Explore
A Case Only He Can Solve
What if Colter hits a wall? A cold case that needs a seasoned detective’s eye. Boom — enter our guy.
A Shady Past That Comes To Light
Dig deeper. Maybe this detective has secrets — old connections, past mistakes, or even a dark history tied to a current villain. That’s narrative gold.
A Race Against Time Collaboration
Imagine this: Colter and the detective must work together in a high-stakes case with a ticking clock. They hate it. We love it.
This Isn’t Just A Fan Wishlist — It’s Smart TV Writing
Characters Like This Boost Ratings
Data doesn’t lie. When compelling characters reappear, ratings spike. Audience retention goes up. Merch sells. Hashtags trend.
It Builds A Universe, Not Just A Series
Recurring characters turn episodic shows into worlds. Viewers feel like they’re stepping back into something rich, connected, alive.
Final Word — Let’s Make It Happen
Why waste a perfectly written, brilliantly acted, fan-approved detective? This isn’t a gamble — it’s a surefire win. Whether as Colter’s rival, reluctant partner, or even a wildcard ally, he belongs in Tracker’s future. Give the people what they want. More of that detective. Make him a recurring character — the show will only get better.
