CBS Effectively Explains Why Tracker Got Rid Of Bobby & Velma

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Be warned, this article contains spoilers for Tracker season 3, episode 7, “Eat the Rich.” The episode effectively demonstrates why the show has moved beyond needing Bobby and Velma on Colter Shaw’s team. As one of the most popular shows on television, the CBS series was a highly anticipated return for the 2025-2026 season. It’s consistently remained the most-watched non-sports program on broadcast television, making it easy to overlook how much Tracker has evolved since its successful debut on CBS in early 2024.

The third season of Tracker began with a two-part episode that brought back Jensen Ackles as Russell Shaw, a character who hadn’t appeared in season 2. The premiere quickly covered a lot of ground with the shocking details surrounding Ashton Shaw’s death and the current case. It also made it clear that Velma and Bobby were no longer part of the team.

Tracker Season 3, Episode 7 Highlights How Obsolete Velma’s Job Has Become

It wasn’t surprising to see Abby McEnany and Eric Graise leave the show, as their departures were announced before the start of season 3. While the series didn’t spend much time on their exits, it did briefly explain where they went. We learned Bobby took a well-paying job with a new company, and Velma decided to reconnect with Teddi, who had left the show after season one. It was good that Tracker quickly acknowledged their absence, but the reasons given for their leaving felt a bit weak and unconvincing.

By season 3, episode 7 of Tracker, it’s evident why the show doesn’t need both Velma and Bobby anymore. In the episode “Eat the Rich,” Colter unexpectedly finds a new case, rather than receiving assignments from his previous contact. This shift in how cases are initiated makes Velma’s role unnecessary. It seems likely that future episodes of Tracker will continue to feature cases that Colter discovers by chance, potentially even bringing Keaton back into the story.

Colter’s “Eat the Rich Case” Explains Why Bobby Opted To Change Jobs

©CBS / Courtesy MovieStillsDB

Regarding Bobby’s motivations, the “Eat the Rich” episode reveals a bit about why he does what he does. Because this wasn’t an official case, Colter didn’t receive payment for his work. Instead, he asked for the victim’s father’s gun – a generous act consistent with his character. However, finding people is how Bobby makes a living, so he can’t consistently work for free; cases like this can’t become a regular occurrence for him.

Avoiding stories about characters doing good deeds would hinder both Colter and Tracker’s development. These stories are important for showing that, despite being a loner, Colter has a kind heart. It’s understandable why Bobby chose to leave, particularly if his new job offered a good income. While this situation also applies to Velma, Bobby’s work was essential to Colter’s adventures, which is why Randy took his place. Even with the new job, Bobby still needed extra income from Reenie’s law firm to support himself.

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2025-12-01 17:38