Hartley’s idea for Tracker season 3 is one that the creative team behind the show has been “kicking around” for a while, according to a 2025 interview with The Hollywood Reporter. Hartley wants Colter Shaw to have to go on the run. His idea is to see the main character framed and have to use his skills to evade capture. When asked about what the Tracker audience can expect in season 3, he told the outlet: We have a couple of ideas. One of these is that Colter has all of these skills; he’s a survivalist and he knows how to be alone, and he knows how to find people and he’s gifted in that regard. He’s a great listener.
But it would be interesting, I think, to see him be set up. In other words, to see him using all those skills to run from the authorities, because you’ve been set up for whatever reason. I’d love to have all that tie into the family background, the government. So, we’ll see. We’ve been kicking that idea around. We have a lot of different stuff that we’re talking about. We have the underlying theme of what we’re going to do next year, while not really changing the direction of where our story is going.
Tracker has already played with both supernatural and horror elements in its second season, so seeing the main character at the center of a chase thriller could certainly work. It could also provide the audience with a great payoff – or even more questions – if, as Hartley speculates, the story was somehow tied to the Shaw family and the government. The dynamics of the Shaw family have been complex, and we only have teases of that government connection so far. Tracker season 3 could change that.
Justin Hartley isn’t just the charming face behind Tracker’s survival-savvy protagonist, Colter Shaw—he’s also proving to be a creative powerhouse off-screen. In a recent interview, Hartley teased a fresh and unexpected idea for Tracker Season 3, and it’s got fans buzzing louder than a drone in a quiet forest.
Let’s dive into what he said, why it matters, and how it might completely reshape the next season of Tracker. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just catching up, this is one development you’ll want on your radar.
Who Is Justin Hartley and Why Should You Care?
From This Is Us to Tracker—Hartley’s Evolution
Justin Hartley is no stranger to the small screen. After years of tugging at our heartstrings in This Is Us, he transitioned into the gritty and action-packed world of Tracker. And let’s be real: he nailed it.
The Man Behind Colter Shaw
In Tracker, Hartley plays Colter Shaw—a lone-wolf survivalist and reward seeker who solves crimes using his wilderness skills and keen intuition. Think Sherlock Holmes meets Bear Grylls. But it’s more than the tough guy persona; Hartley brings emotional depth and relatability to the character, making him a fan favorite.
Season 2 Set the Stage—Now Season 3 Needs a Twist
Where We Left Off in Season 2
Season 2 ended with a bang—literally. With high-stakes chases, emotional reveals, and some serious cliffhangers, fans were left wanting more. But how do you top that? Justin Hartley might have the answer.
Why Season 3 Has to Go Bigger and Bolder
Let’s face it: in today’s saturated TV market, shows need to evolve to survive. Hartley knows this. That’s why he’s pitching an idea that’s not just interesting—it’s potentially revolutionary for the series.
Justin Hartley’s Idea—Revealed
A Deeper Dive Into Colter Shaw’s Past
In the interview, Hartley suggested that Season 3 could explore more of Colter’s mysterious past—especially the psychological scars left by his unconventional upbringing. This means diving deep into the trauma, survivalist training, and dark family secrets that shaped him.
Flashbacks With a Purpose
Hartley wants flashbacks that do more than just fill in the blanks. He envisions them as a mirror to Colter’s current cases—revealing why he reacts the way he does, and how his past still haunts him.
The Character-Driven Approach—Why It Works
Fans Love Backstory (When It’s Done Right)
We’re wired to crave meaning. When a character’s present is rooted in a compelling past, it makes every decision feel more important. That’s what Hartley is banking on.
Emotional Arcs Matter More Than Explosions
Sure, the action keeps things exciting. But the soul of Tracker is Colter’s inner journey. By leaning into that, Season 3 can elevate itself from just another procedural drama to something unforgettable.
Could This Mean More Family Drama?
The Shaw Family Mystery Still Lingers
We still don’t know everything about Colter’s father—or the deeper reasons behind his bizarre behavior. Hartley’s idea could mean we finally get answers.
Siblings, Secrets, and Surprises
Is there another Shaw sibling out there? Could Colter’s mother have had secrets of her own? Theories are already swirling, and Hartley’s hint only adds fuel to the fire.
What Fans Are Saying Online
Social Media Reactions to Hartley’s Tease
The minute his comments went public, Twitter (now X), Reddit, and Facebook lit up. Hashtags like #TrackerSeason3 and #ColterBackstory began trending.
Most Common Fan Reactions
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“YES to more backstory!”
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“Flashbacks could be amazing if done right.”
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“Give Colter a love interest already!”
(Okay, that one’s unrelated—but it keeps coming up!)
What This Could Mean for Future Episodes
A Shift in Tone and Pacing
If Hartley’s idea goes through, expect a more reflective and emotionally rich season. Less ‘case of the week,’ more ‘man versus memory.’
Could It Open Doors for a Spin-Off?
You heard it here first. If the Shaw family history proves captivating enough, we could see a spin-off focused on Colter’s father or even a prequel series. Netflix, are you listening?
Behind the Scenes—Hartley’s Growing Creative Role
Actor to Executive Producer?
Rumors suggest that Hartley may be stepping into a larger creative role behind the camera. If true, his vision could steer the direction of the entire series.
Collaborating With the Writers’ Room
Hartley isn’t just daydreaming—he’s actively sharing ideas with the writers. This level of involvement is rare and exciting. It shows he’s invested in Tracker’s long-term success.
Let’s Talk Storytelling Strategy
Narrative Layering Is Key
Adding psychological depth through backstory adds layers to the narrative. Each episode becomes more than a mystery—it becomes a puzzle piece in Colter’s healing.
Think True Detective Meets Lost
Remember how Lost used flashbacks to build characters? That’s the vibe Hartley’s going for—with the survivalist grit of Tracker still intact.
What About Guest Stars and Crossovers?
Expanding the Tracker Universe
A deeper story means more characters. Expect new allies, enemies, and mentors to surface in Colter’s life.
A Possible FBI or NCIS Crossover?
Hartley hinted that a crossover could be “on the table.” Imagine Colter teaming up with seasoned agents for a major case—it could draw in new viewers and keep existing fans hooked.
Viewer Expectations Are Sky High
Can Season 3 Deliver the Drama?
Fans are now expecting more than just thrilling chases. They want heart. They want answers. And they want Justin Hartley’s idea brought to life.
The Pressure Is On
But if anyone can deliver? It’s Hartley. With his acting chops and creative insight, Season 3 could be the best yet.
Conclusion: This Could Be Tracker’s Most Powerful Season Yet
Justin Hartley isn’t just pushing for more depth—he’s fighting to evolve Tracker into something more human, emotional, and unforgettable. If the showrunners take his advice, we’re in for one heck of a ride. Season 3 might not just be the next chapter—it could be the turning point of the entire series. So buckle up, fans. Colter Shaw’s story is far from over.
