The Big Reveal: Tracker Returns in October 2025
After months of speculation and fan anticipation, CBS has officially set the premiere date for Tracker Season 3. The network has slotted it into its fall 2025 schedule, returning to its Sunday primetime fold.
Here’s everything you need to know about Tracker’s comeback — from cast changes to spoilers, viewing options, and more.
CBS 2025–26 Fall Schedule: Where Tracker Fits In
Sunday Night Drama Block
CBS’s 2025–26 fall lineup places Tracker at 8:00 p.m. ET on Sunday nights, directly following 60 Minutes. At 9:00 p.m., The Road premieres, making Tracker the anchor of CBS’s Sunday drama block.
Premiere Date Confirmed: October 19, 2025
Mark your calendars: Tracker returns on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. CT. This is consistent across both CBS’s broadcast and its streaming partner, Paramount+.
A Quick Recap: How Did Tracker Get Here?
Series Origins & Renewal History
Based on Jeffrey Deaver’s 2019 novel The Never Game, Tracker premiered on February 11, 2024 on CBS, debuting right after Super Bowl LVIII. It earned early praise and was renewed for Season 2 by March 2024. The second season launched on October 13, 2024.
In February 2025, CBS officially renewed the series for a third season.
The Season 2 Finale: What We’re Left With
The Season 2 finale aired on May 11, 2025, bringing Colter home and unmasking a shocking family secret involving his mother, Mary Dove Shaw. This cliffhanger left many plot threads wide open and set the stage for a high-stakes Season 3.
2025 Return: What’s Changing This Season?
Cast Shakeups & Departures
Two familiar faces won’t be returning as series regulars in Season 3:
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Abby McEnany (Velma Bruin)
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Eric Graise (Bobby Exley)
However, Jensen Ackles is returning as Colter’s brother, Russell Shaw, making at least a two-episode appearance. Ackles’ return has fans buzzing — especially given his Supernatural legacy and chemistry with Hartley.
Focus Tightens on Colter & Reenie
With losing Bobby and Velma, the narrative is likely to lean even more heavily on the central relationship between Colter Shaw (Justin Hartley) and Reenie Greene (Fiona Rene). Showrunner Elwood Reid has suggested deeper exploration of Colter’s family, his past, and internal conflicts.
New Season Trajectory & Themes
In previews, Colter is expected to confront the truth behind his father’s death, while teaming up with Russell on a missing persons case that could spiral into a season-long arc. There’s talk of tension between authority vs. vigilante justice and Colter wrestling with his own moral lines.
How to Watch Tracker in 2025
Live TV & CBS Broadcast
If you’re in the U.S., Tracker airs on CBS every Sunday at 8:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. CT. Many cable and satellite providers will carry the show.
Streaming on Paramount+
Episodes are available to stream on Paramount+, often the same night or next day depending on your subscription tier. Seasons 1 & 2 are already hosted there.
Other Platforms & Distribution
While Hulu, YouTube TV, and other platforms sometimes offer CBS content, Paramount+ remains the flagship streaming holder. International licensing may vary by country.
Why the Long Wait Between Seasons?
Production & Filming Schedules
Season 3 filming began in July 2025 in British Columbia and is expected to wrap in spring 2026. That production window naturally pushes the airing into fall.
Strategic Fall Placement
CBS is positioning Tracker as part of its strong Sunday lineup, maximizing viewership potential and giving it an anchor role in the schedule. With an 8 p.m. slot, it benefits from post-60 Minutes lead-in.
Cast Availability & Story Development
With Jensen Ackles’ involvement and other cast changes, aligning schedules and crafting the narrative direction likely required extra time. Also, a well-paced writing and editing process helps ensure the show returns revitalized, not rushed.
What to Expect Episode-Wise
Two-Part Premiere Event
Sources indicate the premiere may be a two-part event, allowing for a grander reintroduction. Ackles’ Russell character appears heavily in the early arc.
A Season-Long Mystery Thread
Beyond isolated cases, the family drama around Colter’s mother and father is expected to anchor the season’s continuing questions.
Guest Stars & Cameo Potential
Given that Bobby and Velma aren’t series regulars anymore, they may return in guest spots. Producers haven’t closed that possibility. Additionally, Ackles’ role offers crossover allure for fans.
Possible New Characters & Conflicts
Expect new antagonists, allies, and forces challenging Colter’s methods. The dynamics between Colter, Reenie, and Russell might evolve in unexpected ways.
Fan Reactions & Early Buzz
Social Media Hype & Fandom Return
Since the announcement, fans have been buzzing — from countdowns to speculation about story arcs. Posts about Jensen Ackles’ return are trending across platforms.
Concerns Over Cast Departures
Some longtime viewers are cautious about losing Velma and Bobby as regulars. The show’s ability to pivot and retain its edge is being closely watched.
Confidence in Colter’s Journey
Many fans still believe Colter Shaw is the heart of Tracker, and if the core character drives the narrative with emotional stakes, the show can thrive. The return of family secrets only elevates that charge.
Will Tracker Stay on CBS After 2025?
Renewal Signals & Ratings Expectations
Given Tracker’s past performance and strong viewership metrics, early buzz suggests a path toward renewal is likely.
International & Streaming Footprint
The show’s presence on Paramount+ and licensing abroad could help sustain it beyond domestic ratings.
Creative Longevity & Franchise Potential
If Tracker leans into its mystery and family core, it may extend into multiple seasons or spin-offs. The groundwork for that is already laid with its mythos and open threads.
Conclusion
If you’ve been wondering, Tracker is definitely coming back — and soon. CBS has locked Sunday, October 19, 2025 at 8 p.m. ET as the Season 3 premiere. With major cast shuffles, Jensen Ackles’ return, and a storyline that digs deep into Colter’s past, this reinvention feels bold. Whether you’re a longtime fan or simply curious to see where this survivalist drama goes next, mark your calendar — Tracker is ready to hit the trail again.
FAQs
1. When exactly does Tracker Season 3 premiere?
Tracker returns on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET on CBS.
2. Who’s returning to the cast (and who’s not)?
Justin Hartley (Colter) and Fiona Rene (Reenie) return as leads. Abby McEnany (Velma) and Eric Graise (Bobby) will not return as series regulars. Jensen Ackles joins as Colter’s brother, Russell, likely for the early episodes.
3. Will new episodes stream online?
Yes — new episodes will be available on Paramount+, alongside the regular CBS broadcast. Seasons 1 and 2 are already hosted there.
4. Why is there such a long gap between seasons?
The long gap is due to production scheduling, casting shifts, and aligning the show with CBS’s strategic fall 2025 lineup.
5. Is there a chance Tracker gets renewed again after Season 3?
While nothing is official yet, the show’s strong viewership and creative flexibility suggest a favorable chance for renewal. The network and producers seem invested in its long-term direction.
