While Tracker season 3 remains strong as TV’s number 1 show, Jensen Ackles’ Russell Shaw threatens its future. CBS’ 2025-2026 TV schedule is now in full swing, with its Sunday offering contunuing its dominance in terms of ratings. Despite Tracker season 3 going through a massive cast shake-up during the off-season, Justin Hartley’s series is able to seamlessly move forward without Velma and Bobby.
Similar to so many returning shows on network TV, Tracker season 3 opens up the year with a two-part premiere. It touches the ongoing Shaw family mystery, which had a major breakthrough in the season 2 finale. That said, the smaller ensemble isn’t as big of an issue as the CBS procedural is able to bring back Ackles’ Russell Shaw for both episodes. As great as it is, spending more time with Russell, especially after he previously only appeared in 1 episode per year, seeing him more crystallizes what could be the death knell of Tracker. Intriguingly, Russell himself indirectly addressed this in “Leverage.”
In the ever-shifting world of television, few names ignite fan passion quite like Jensen Ackles. Once known primarily as Dean Winchester from Supernatural, Ackles has evolved far beyond his early days of monster hunting. His recent projects suggest he might just become the biggest disruptor in network television, shaking up long-standing hierarchies and redefining what audiences crave.
The Power Shift in Network Television
Network television is changing faster than ever. Audiences are fragmenting, streaming giants are stealing attention, and legacy shows are struggling to stay relevant. Amid this chaos, Jensen Ackles has emerged as an unexpected force, blending star power, creative control, and sharp instincts for storytelling.
But how did Ackles—once part of a cult-favorite CW series—become a genuine threat to network TV’s biggest powerhouse shows?
From Cult Star to Creative Heavyweight
Jensen Ackles’ rise didn’t happen overnight. For 15 seasons, Supernatural made him a household name. But when the series ended, Ackles didn’t just chase new acting gigs—he pivoted strategically.
He launched Chaos Machine Productions, his own company, which quickly landed deals with major networks. This move wasn’t about ego—it was about power. By controlling production, Ackles positioned himself as both a storyteller and businessman, setting the stage for influence well beyond acting.
Ackles’ Secret Weapon: The Audience’s Trust
One of Jensen’s greatest assets is his authentic relationship with fans. Unlike many TV stars who fade once their series ends, Ackles leveraged his massive fandom, social media presence, and genuine likability into brand loyalty.
When Jensen signs onto a project, fans follow. That loyalty translates into instant buzz, social engagement, and, crucially, ratings—something networks can’t ignore in today’s competitive environment.
The Network Giants: Who’s at Risk?
When we talk about “network TV’s most-watched series,” shows like NCIS, Chicago Fire, or 9-1-1 come to mind. They dominate ratings week after week—but their dominance may not last forever.
Ackles’ projects—both on and off-screen—bring a fresh energy that traditional procedural dramas often lack.
The moment Jensen steps into a major network slot, audiences shift, algorithms spike, and buzz follows. That’s a formula capable of dethroning even the most established series.
The Boys: A Game-Changer
Ackles’ role as Soldier Boy in The Boys didn’t just boost his profile—it reintroduced him to a new generation of fans. His layered, complex performance proved he wasn’t just a CW hero; he could carry prestige-level storytelling with depth and intensity.
That crossover success matters. It blurred the line between streaming and network viewership, proving that Ackles’ appeal transcends platforms. When he returns to network TV, he’ll bring that expanded audience with him.
The Winchesters: Proof of Concept
Even though The Winchesters (Ackles’ Supernatural prequel) didn’t last multiple seasons, it proved something powerful—Ackles can lead behind the camera. As an executive producer and narrator, he demonstrated an understanding of world-building, pacing, and emotional resonance.
This project showed networks that Ackles isn’t just a performer—he’s a creator with vision, capable of developing franchises and universes that fans actually care about.
The Chaos Machine Strategy
Ackles’ production company is quietly becoming a major player. By aligning with Warner Bros. Television and diversifying his creative portfolio, he’s ensuring a steady stream of projects that align with his brand: dark, emotional, character-driven television.
This long game could make Ackles the next Shonda Rhimes or Taylor Sheridan of network TV—creators who dominate the landscape by turning loyal fandoms into long-term empires.
Why Networks Should Be Nervous
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: most network hits rely on predictability. They follow formulas that work—but don’t excite. Ackles, on the other hand, thrives on disruption. He brings heart, grit, and unpredictability to every story he touches.
If his upcoming projects catch fire, networks could find themselves battling Ackles-led shows for their own audiences. That’s not just competition—it’s a potential shift in TV power dynamics.
The X-Factor: Authentic Storytelling
Audiences today are tired of cookie-cutter television. Ackles knows that. His storytelling leans into emotion, mythology, and moral complexity—the same ingredients that made Supernatural a phenomenon.
He understands that viewers crave connection, not just content. That’s the secret sauce many big network dramas have lost.
Comparing Ackles to TV’s Reigning Stars
Think about actors like Mark Harmon (NCIS), Taylor Kinney (Chicago Fire), or Angela Bassett (9-1-1)—they’ve built empires. But Jensen Ackles is carving a different path: the hybrid path—actor, director, producer, storyteller.
It’s that versatility that makes him such a unique threat. He’s not just competing for screen time; he’s competing for creative control.
The Upcoming Projects Everyone’s Watching
Industry insiders are buzzing about Ackles’ upcoming collaborations and rumored roles. Whether it’s a gritty drama, a superhero series, or a psychological thriller, one thing’s certain: when Jensen’s name is attached, people tune in.
If any of these projects land with audiences the way Supernatural or The Boys did, network TV’s most-watched shows will have real competition.
Social Media: Ackles’ Secret Marketing Weapon
In today’s world, virality equals visibility. Ackles knows this better than most. His fan engagement on Instagram and X (Twitter) consistently drives organic promotion—no paid campaign needed.
That social power gives him a marketing advantage that traditional shows can’t buy. He doesn’t need millions in ad spend; his fans do the promoting for him.
A Threat Rooted in Legacy
Fifteen years on Supernatural gave Ackles more than fame—it gave him insight into what keeps fans loyal. He’s taken that knowledge and applied it to everything he touches, ensuring his future projects are built for longevity, not hype.
Network executives know this—and that’s why they’re watching him closely.
Could Ackles Dethrone the Top Network Series?
It’s not a question of if, but when. The TV landscape is ripe for a shake-up, and Jensen Ackles stands at the center of that potential storm. His growing influence, combined with audience trust and storytelling instincts, makes him the most likely contender to steal the ratings crown.
Conclusion: The Jensen Ackles Era Is Coming
Jensen Ackles isn’t just an actor anymore—he’s a movement. His talent, business acumen, and fan-first philosophy make him a rare triple threat in an industry that desperately needs reinvention.
So, when people say network TV’s most-watched series is untouchable, maybe they haven’t met the man who could change that narrative.
Because Jensen Ackles isn’t just part of the game anymore—he’s rewriting the rules.
