For Justin Hartley, getting to work with wife Sofia Pernas on his hit CBS series Tracker just makes the experience that much better. “I enjoy being around her. I’m having the time of my life with this show,” Hartley, 48, told USA Today on Friday, March 21. “I love it. To be able to share it with the people you love makes it even better.” Hartley was asked about his character, Colter, reuniting with Pernas’ Billie. “I don’t know if I’d call it a love story, but there’s a romantic spark and chemistry between the two,” he explained. The fictional pair are set to face off again in an upcoming episode of Tracker.
Based on Jeffery Deaver’s novel The Never Game, Tracker is centered around a survivalist named Colter (Hartley) who travels the country helping to solve a variety of mysteries. Hartley not only stars in the show but also serves as an executive producer, which allowed him to surprise viewers with exciting guest stars such as Pernas, 35, Jensen Ackles, Melissa Roxburgh, Jennifer Morrison and more.
Justin Hartley and Wife Sofia Pernas’ Sweetest Quotes About Working Together on ‘Tracker’ and More “Obviously, I got her because I live with her,” Hartley quipped on an October 2024 episode of Max’s Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace? “It’s not even a phone call.” Hartley joked he didn’t have to do much to get Pernas to join the show, adding, “It’s like, ‘Hey, babe. Come on, we’re going to work.’ But that’s fun when you can work with people that you love. … It’s great. It’s great having her. She’s a light and we get the greatest guest stars on our show.”
Hartley and Pernas first worked together on The Young and The Restless in 2015. Years later, they reconnected offscreen and exchanged vows in 2021. Along with Tracker, they collaborated on the short-lived Quantum Leap reboot. “She’s wonderful. I mean, if I had my choice, I’d spend every minute with her,” Hartley gushed to Us Weekly in July 2024. “What’s really cool is when you meet someone that means so much to you, that you’re so proud to be with and so proud of, and just such a fan of, and to get to see her work, because she’s such a talented actor. She elevates scenes, and so it makes my job easier, actually. But yeah, it’s just wonderful to work with her.” The actor previously revealed it was always their plan to involve Pernas with Tracker.
“I just thought it would be a really cool idea. It was sort of my idea from the beginning to have this character that comes on that you just mentioned,” Hartley explained to Deadline in May 2024. “I think it was in the second episode, there was a big reward for a car. There was a line that one of the ladies said, ‘Word on the street is that Billie is circling the case.’ And then Coulter kind of eye rolls. If you’re really paying attention, you go, ‘Oh, he’s got a rival, this guy Billie.’”
Love, Action, and Real-Life Chemistry on Set
You know how some on-screen duos just click? That electric chemistry that makes you forget you’re watching actors? Well, imagine if that chemistry wasn’t just acted—it was real. That’s exactly the case with Justin Hartley and Sofia Pernas, the power couple turning heads in CBS’s hit series Tracker.
Hartley recently opened up about how working on the show with his real-life wife has turned the entire experience into what he calls the “time of my life.” And honestly, who wouldn’t want to dive into a story that combines action, mystery, and a whole lot of love? Let’s get into why this collaboration isn’t just a Hollywood romance—it’s something way deeper and refreshingly genuine.
The Power Couple Behind the Screen
Justin Hartley – The Man Behind Colter Shaw
If you’ve been keeping up with Tracker, you already know Justin Hartley plays Colter Shaw—a lone-wolf survivalist who solves mysteries and tracks down missing people. It’s a rugged, emotionally layered role, and Hartley nails it. But it’s not just about chasing criminals in the wild. He brings a sense of humanity to the role that only someone deeply connected to his own life can portray.
Who Is Sofia Pernas?
Pernas isn’t just Hartley’s wife—she’s a powerhouse actress in her own right. You might recognize her from The Brave or Blood & Treasure, but she’s now making waves as Billie in Tracker, a recurring character that’s as fierce and magnetic as she is. When these two share screen time, sparks fly—and not just because they’re in love.
Why ‘Tracker’ Feels So Personal
Working Together as Husband and Wife
Hartley recently shared in an interview that getting to work alongside Sofia has been more than just fun—it’s been meaningful. In his words, “It’s the time of my life.”
Let that sink in. Amid a packed production schedule and intense storylines, the presence of his wife brings a kind of grounding energy. Their personal bond seeps into the characters’ connection in a way that just feels natural.
Real Chemistry = On-Screen Magic
You can’t fake chemistry—and these two prove it. Whether they’re exchanging glances or diving into action scenes, there’s a rhythm between them that can’t be rehearsed. It’s the kind of dynamic you only get when two people truly get each other.
Behind the Scenes With Hartley and Pernas
Keeping It Fun and Light
Hartley says working with Sofia is “like hanging out with your best friend on set every day.” Can you imagine your spouse being your co-star and your co-worker? Somehow, they make it look effortless. The banter, the support, the laughter—it all adds an extra layer to the show that fans are loving.
Supporting Each Other’s Craft
It’s not just about the fun stuff. Hartley praises Sofia’s talent, saying she brings depth to every scene. He admires her craft and learns from her, which is pretty refreshing in an industry known for egos.
What Makes ‘Tracker’ Stand Out in 2025
A Unique Blend of Action and Emotion
Let’s be real—TV is packed with procedurals and crime dramas. But Tracker is different. It balances gripping investigations with real human emotion, largely thanks to Hartley’s compelling portrayal of Colter Shaw. Add in the authentic relationship with Billie (played by Pernas), and you’ve got something truly special.
Viewers Are Hooked—and Not Just for the Action
Fans of Tracker are sticking around for the relationships, not just the resolutions. There’s a deeper emotional current, and much of that is thanks to the on-screen connection between Hartley and Pernas.
From Soap Operas to Primetime Stars
Their Shared TV History
Did you know Hartley and Pernas met years ago on The Young and the Restless? Talk about full circle. From daytime drama to primetime leads, their journey has been nothing short of cinematic.
Growing Stronger With Each Project
Their real-life partnership has evolved alongside their careers. From quiet dates to red carpets, they’ve supported each other every step of the way—and now, that connection is on full display for millions of viewers.
Hartley on Balance and Boundaries
Keeping Work and Love in Sync
You might think mixing work and love could get messy—but not for these two. Hartley emphasizes how they’ve found the right balance. “We’re professionals, but we also know when to just enjoy each other’s company,” he shared.
Respecting Each Other’s Space on Set
They’re not in every scene together, and that’s a good thing. The couple knows how to give each other space to shine, while also celebrating the moments they get to share on screen.
Fans Are Loving It—and So Is Hollywood
Social Media Reactions Are Pouring In
From Twitter to TikTok, fans are gushing over Hartley and Pernas. GIFs, fan edits, memes—you name it. The internet can’t get enough of this duo.
Hollywood Is Taking Note
Producers, critics, and casting directors are watching closely. The buzz around Tracker is more than just ratings—it’s about redefining what authentic, modern storytelling looks like.
Why This Matters Beyond TV
Positive Representation of Marriage
Too often, Hollywood portrays marriage as dramatic or dysfunctional. Hartley and Pernas are flipping the script. They show what mutual respect, support, and fun look like—even in high-stakes situations.
Inspiring Others in and Outside the Industry
Young couples, aspiring actors, and even seasoned pros are looking at this pair and thinking, “That’s the goal.” And they’re right.
Conclusion: A Love Story Worth Watching—On and Off Screen
Justin Hartley and Sofia Pernas aren’t just co-stars—they’re a real-life love story woven into one of TV’s most exciting shows. Their presence in Tracker brings something rare: honesty, warmth, and a whole lot of heart.
From action-packed adventures to quiet emotional beats, their partnership elevates every scene. For Hartley, it truly is “the time of my life”—and as viewers, we’re lucky to be along for the ride.
