With Tracker losing three main cast members before season 3, there is potential for new – and even some familiar faces – to join Justin Hartley‘s show.

Tracker, which debuted in 2024, introduced Us to survivalist Colter Shaw (Hartley) as he travels the country to help find missing people, track down information on criminal cases and more. The procedural quickly found success after being coined the most-watched broadcast premiere since NCIS’ final episode with Mark Harmon in September 2021. Its average viewership was reported to be 18.2 million per episode, according to Paramount+ and broadcast measurements. Before Tracker returned for season 2, Robin Weigert exited the show. It was later confirmed that Abby McEnany and Eric Graise would be leaving the show as well. Executive producer Elwood Reid previously teased onscreen changes in the show’s future.

“I do think it’s evolving. If I can’t evolve those characters – Randy or Reenie or Bobby – they’re not just people that just pick up the phone and go, ‘OK, here is the answer.’ That’s when the show is phoning it in,” he explained to Us Weekly in May 2025. “The challenge is when you got to learn about them, which I thought was interesting. That’s the challenge of the show is not having it fall into a formula.”

Reid noted that they didn’t want Tracker to “fall into complacency.” “The only rule I really have of the show is each week Colter is going to come to a new place and there’s going to be a new case. How he gets those answers and what he uses on the team, that’s all something that’s up for grabs,” Reid teased. “Meeting these [local] weird characters is something we’re going to try to do more of as the season goes on. Just Colter coming in and interacting with other characters. That’s fun to see Justin flex those muscles with really good guest cast members.” Amid Tracker’s ongoing cast changes, Us has compiled a list of possible celebrities who should guest star on Hartley’s show – including many of his former costars:

Who Should Join Justin Hartley’s ‘Tracker’ After Multiple Cast Exits?

The hit CBS drama Tracker took viewers by storm with its gritty storytelling, emotionally complex lead character, and action-packed narrative. Fronted by This Is Us heartthrob Justin Hartley, the show had an explosive start. But now, with multiple cast members exiting the series, fans and critics alike are wondering: What’s next?

Could this be the perfect opportunity to bring in fresh blood and breathe new life into the series? Absolutely. Let’s dive into the chaos, the possibilities, and exactly who should join the Tracker team.

What’s Going on With ‘Tracker’?

A Hit Show Facing Growing Pains

Despite its success, Tracker has hit some unexpected roadblocks. In a plot twist no one saw coming, several key cast members have either chosen not to return or have been written out. That leaves producers scrambling—and fans speculating—about who will step in to fill the void.

Why Cast Exits Could Actually Help the Show

Change can be a blessing in disguise. While sudden cast changes might worry fans, they often open doors to compelling character arcs, guest appearances, and even long-term replacements that could outshine the originals.

What Type of Character Should Join Next?

Diversity Is Key

In today’s TV landscape, representation matters more than ever. This is the perfect time for Tracker to include more diverse roles—both culturally and professionally.

A Rival Tracker

What if Colter Shaw (Hartley) met his match? A rival tracker could challenge him, clash with him, and eventually team up with him for an unbeatable dynamic duo.

A Former Target Turned Ally

Imagine someone Colter once tracked becoming an unexpected ally. That twist could offer both depth and drama.

Top 10 Actors Who Could Take ‘Tracker’ to the Next Level

1. Sophia Bush – The Intelligence Operative

Her role in Chicago P.D. proves she has the grit. She’d be perfect as a former CIA agent with a mysterious past.

2. Michael B. Jordan – The High-Stakes Rival

Imagine a morally grey tracker who doesn’t always follow Colter’s rulebook. Jordan could bring the intensity and emotional depth the role needs.

3. Anya Taylor-Joy – The Cryptic Genius

She could play a quirky, off-grid hacker who helps Colter decode clues in cold cases. Eccentric but brilliant.

4. Diego Luna – The Grizzled Ex-Tracker

Once the best in the game, now a recluse. Luna’s character could become a mentor—or a foe.

5. Keke Palmer – The Unpredictable Informant

Street-smart, unpredictable, and resourceful. She could keep Colter on his toes with every appearance.

6. Theo James – The International Threat

Bring in a European edge with a multilingual tracker who’s a step ahead. Charming, mysterious, and dangerous.

7. Yara Shahidi – The Tech Prodigy

A cyber expert who can dig deep into digital trails. Young, bold, and smarter than anyone in the room.

8. Giancarlo Esposito – The Puppet Master

A character who always seems to be two moves ahead. Esposito’s calm menace is exactly what Tracker needs.

9. Tatiana Maslany – The Chameleon

Someone with multiple identities who changes personas like outfits. Maslany’s acting range would shine.

10. Jensen Ackles – The Family Connection

Colter’s long-lost brother or cousin with a past just as dark. Fans would go wild for the reunion.

Characters That Would Shake Up the Storyline

The Corrupt Cop

Someone who’s both a friend and a foe. This character could help Colter sometimes—but also sabotage him.

The Journalist

They’re digging into Colter’s past, getting too close for comfort. But what happens when they need his help?

The Criminal With a Code

A Robin Hood-like figure Colter is forced to team up with. Think tension, chemistry, and moral conflict.

Should the Show Introduce a Female Lead?

Absolutely. Tracker is currently a testosterone-heavy show. A strong, intelligent, female lead could bring not only balance but also attract a broader audience.

She doesn’t need to be a romantic interest—just someone who challenges Colter intellectually and emotionally.

What About Celebrity Guest Stars?

Why Cameos Can Work Wonders

Big-name guest stars bring a temporary boost in viewership and create buzz on social media. Imagine someone like Pedro Pascal or Zendaya popping up in a surprise role!

Fan Favorites: What Viewers Are Saying

Reddit’s Top Picks

Fans on Reddit have already started suggesting names like Emily Blunt, Daniel Kaluuya, and Ming-Na Wen.

Twitter Reactions

The hashtag #TrackerRecast has been trending, with fans creating dream cast lists and even AI-generated trailers.

Why Justin Hartley Needs Strong Co-Stars

Justin Hartley is undeniably magnetic, but even the most compelling lead can’t carry a series alone forever. To keep things fresh and dynamic, Colter Shaw needs complex supporting characters to bounce off of, challenge him, and help evolve the story.

What’s at Stake if the Recasting Fails?

Let’s be honest: if the wrong actors are brought in—or worse, if the replacements lack chemistry—the show could start to sink. Viewer loyalty is strong, but not indestructible. That’s why casting the right actors now is crucial.

How New Characters Can Elevate Season 2 and Beyond

New faces = new plotlines. Whether it’s uncovering secrets from Colter’s past, exploring new tracking methods, or introducing multi-episode mysteries, new characters can create long-term story arcs that give Tracker longevity.

What Should CBS Do Next?

Simple:

• Hire bold, diverse talent

• Create strong, layered roles

• Let character relationships evolve organically

• Avoid clichéd replacements

Conclusion: The Future of ‘Tracker’ Depends on Smart Casting

There’s no denying it—Tracker is at a crossroads. But with change comes opportunity. By bringing in fresh talent and creating compelling roles, the show can avoid the sophomore slump and become even stronger than before.

Now is the time for bold choices, unexpected twists, and unforgettable characters. Because let’s face it—Colter Shaw’s journey is far from over, and he deserves a cast that can keep up.