CBS Finally Listened To Fans’ 3-Year Tracker Plea

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As a huge fan, I can’t believe it’s finally happening! Ever since Justin Hartley’s show, Tracker, first came out in 2024, it’s been the most-watched show on television. Sure, Taylor Sheridan’s Marshals on CBS has been a strong competitor since 2025, but Tracker‘s popularity is undeniable. Now that the year is winding down, everyone’s buzzing about what’s next for the show, especially considering how much it’s changed and grown over the last couple of seasons.

As Tracker heads into its final episodes of season 3, the show is focusing intensely on unraveling the long-standing mystery surrounding the death of the Shaw family’s father, Ashton. This event has deeply affected the family, even causing a rift between Colter and his brother Russell (Jensen Ackles). While the mystery takes center stage, it’s easy to overlook how CBS has begun to respond to viewer feedback about the show. But a recent announcement makes it clear that the network is listening.

Jensen Ackles’ Russell Has An Expanded Role In Tracker Season 3

I really think Hartley is perfect as the lead in Tracker, and the show’s popularity proves it. But ever since Jensen Ackles showed up as Russell in “Off the Boots,” it was clear he took things to another level – no one else on the show quite matches his energy. He’s a much funnier, more relaxed character, which is a great contrast to the younger Shaw brother’s intensity. Honestly, every scene with those two is fantastic. That’s why fans, myself included, were immediately hoping to see Ackles in more episodes. Sadly, across the first two seasons of Tracker, his appearances have been pretty limited – just one episode a year. It’s a shame, because he really adds something special.

In season 3 of Tracker, Russell is playing a bigger role than expected, already appearing in two episodes with two more planned. Initially, reports suggested he’d only be in the finale, which seemed logical given the hints about solving the mystery of Ashton’s death. However, it’s now confirmed Russell will also be in the second-to-last episode of the season. While the brothers will be working on separate cases, their time together will help Colter get closer to uncovering the truth about his father.

What Russell’s Expanded Role Means For Tracker Season 4

I’ve always maintained that the success of Tracker relies entirely on Colter. Unlike many other crime shows, Tracker isn’t really a team effort. While Randy and Reenie often assist with cases, they mostly do so from a distance. Colter handles everything on the ground himself. The fact that Russell appears more often in season 3 of Tracker might suggest CBS is planning to give Hartley’s character some regular partners to work with on the road, which would be a welcome change.

It’s always great to see Jared Padalecki back on Tracker, and bringing him back for more episodes would be a positive step. CBS could also consider a spin-off series starring him. The network often expands successful shows, and given Tracker‘s popularity, it’s surprising they haven’t explored this option. A new procedural drama led by Padalecki seems like a strong possibility.

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2026-05-03 20:42