Speaking of, when Tracker started, Teddi and Velma were there as ways to open the door for Colter to take on new cases across the country. They did the heavy lifting of tracking down these assignments so that Colter could then do the heavier lifting and see them through. This arrangement made sense, and the pair became emotional confidants to Colter as he wrestled with his troubled past. They also echoed the Bruins from the original Jeffrey Deaver novels, who are Colter’s only recurring non-familial allies in the books.
But on Tracker, Colter also has Reenie, Bobby, and now Randy to lean on. He’s seen finding many of his jobs by himself (such as his Season 2 “white whale” case), takes on assignments based on friends’ recommendations, and even falls into jobs during his travels. With the absence of Robin Weigert, who left the show ahead of Season 2, as well as Velma’s decreased role, we have to wonder, does Colter really need handlers at all? There’s an argument to be made that Reenie and Bobby could fill these roles, and since they’re already included every week, cutting out the Bruins would increase everyone’s fees and allow them a more direct stake in which cases they undertake.
While the Bruins work well in Deaver’s books and served their purpose in Season 1 especially, maybe it’s time for Tracker to reassess Reenie and Bobby’s roles going forward. If the show were to add the standard “handler” duties to their plate, it may grant them more of an emotional investment in Colter’s cases, as they would be the ones sending him into danger. Whether this is the route Tracker will go, only time will tell, but either way, we need more from these characters going forward.
Who Is Colter Shaw, and Why Are We Talking About Handlers?
If you’ve been keeping up with Tracker, you know Colter Shaw isn’t your average hero. He’s not a cop. He’s not a vigilante. He’s a reward seeker—a nomadic investigator solving cases for cold, hard cash… or justice.
But throughout his journey, there’s been one big question—does he really need handlers guiding him anymore? Let’s dig in.
The Role of Handlers in Colter’s Life
What Exactly Is a Handler, Anyway?
In the world of bounty hunting, missing persons, and private tracking, a “handler” is typically someone behind the scenes—coordinating logistics, digging up info, keeping the tracker in the loop. Think of them as mission control while the hero is boots-on-the-ground.
Shaw’s History With Handlers
Colter has always had a few reliable people behind the scenes helping him navigate tough terrain. Whether it’s through tech, research, or legal advice, they’ve had his back—until recently.
Why Handlers Might Be Holding Him Back
Independence Has Always Been His Superpower
Colter Shaw isn’t just capable—he thrives in isolation. His upbringing was unconventional (to say the least), shaped by survivalism, self-reliance, and intellectual rigor.
He was never meant to be managed.
Less Noise, More Instinct
When Colter is free from outside voices clouding his judgment, his decisions become razor-sharp. The fewer distractions, the better the outcome. His instincts? Unmatched.
The Freedom to Improvise
Handlers might mean well, but they often tether him to a plan. Shaw needs freedom to pivot, improvise, and trust the moment. No delay. No second-guessing.
The Turning Point—Going Rogue Without a Net
The Mission That Changed It All
In a recent episode, Colter tackled a case solo when communication lines broke down. No contact. No tech backup. Just him, the terrain, and the ticking clock.
He not only solved the case—he thrived.
Viewers Noticed the Shift
Fans lit up social media praising Shaw’s unfiltered approach. Without anyone in his ear, he seemed more raw, more intense, more… authentic.
Pros and Cons of Flying Solo
The Pros
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Faster decision-making
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More trust in his gut
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No one second-guessing him
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More character depth and screen tension
The Cons
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No safety net
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No access to quick data
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Increased danger
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Emotional isolation
Still, the thrill of seeing Colter Shaw take full control? Pretty unbeatable.
Does Going Solo Align With His Core Values?
Colter doesn’t chase rewards just for the money—he seeks truth, closure, and sometimes, redemption.
Without handlers, he’s forced to lean entirely on his moral compass. And let’s be honest—that’s when he’s most compelling.
Why Fans Love the “Lone Wolf” Shaw
He’s Relatable in His Isolation
A lot of us feel like we’re navigating life on our own. Watching Colter succeed solo is empowering. It taps into our desire to be strong, self-sufficient, and resilient.
There’s More Room for Character Growth
Without a safety net, he’s got to adapt, reflect, and overcome obstacles alone. That’s gold for storytelling—and gold for character development.
Could This Be a Long-Term Shift in the Show?
What the Writers Might Be Planning
There’s buzz that Colter’s shift toward solo missions may not be temporary. The writers seem to be nudging him toward independence—and viewers are eating it up.
A More Intimate Relationship With the Audience
No handlers mean more time focused on Colter. That allows for deeper character study, tighter action scenes, and higher emotional stakes.
The Psychological Edge of Going It Alone
Shaw’s mind works like a puzzle. Too many outside voices? That puzzle gets muddled.
But alone, he’s in flow state—like a detective monk navigating chaos with clarity.
The Ratings Don’t Lie
Episodes With Solo Missions Are Trending Higher
Social buzz, streaming views, and Reddit threads all point in the same direction—people want more lone-wolf Colter.
More grit. More danger. More edge-of-your-seat moments.
Predictions for the Future of Colter Shaw
Will He Ever Fully Ditch Handlers?
Probably not entirely. But we’ll likely see a leaner, more selective approach to how and when he calls for backup.
Will the Series Embrace the Shift?
Absolutely. It opens new doors for high-stakes plots, deeper conflict, and more emotionally resonant arcs.
Final Thoughts—Let Colter Run Free
Colter Shaw is one of the most compelling characters on TV because he walks the tightrope between structure and chaos. And honestly? Watching him walk it without a net makes for phenomenal TV.
Maybe he doesn’t need handlers after all.
Maybe… he never did.
