Tracker has quickly become CBS’s most-watched scripted drama, drawing millions of viewers with its unique take on the procedural format. Led by Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw, a survivalist-turned-rewardist, the series combines weekly mysteries with the deeper intrigue of Colter’s unusual upbringing. Season 2 continued the success of the debut season, averaging 17.34 million viewers across platforms within 35 days.
However, despite its dominance on network television, a critical development heading into season 3 threatens the long-term future of the show. Changes to Colter’s supporting team could undermine the ensemble dynamic that has helped keep the series fresh and engaging.
Colter’s Team Shrinks in Season 3
The exits of Abby McEnany (Velma) and Eric Graise (Bobby) ahead of season 3 leave Colter with only Reenie (Fiona Rene) and Randy (Jensen Ackles) as close allies. This marks a significant shift from the show’s first two seasons, where Colter’s team provided both practical and emotional support.
Velma and Teddi were originally vital to Colter’s work, often alerting him to new cases and showing concern for his well-being. Their presence allowed viewers to see Colter’s more personal side, even if he remained distant. With their departure, Colter loses not only professional partners but also the people who anchored him emotionally.
Bobby’s connection to Colter also added depth, offering a history and camaraderie that Randy has yet to fully replace. While Randy’s introduction in season 2 established him as a capable partner, the loss of both Bobby and Velma leaves Colter more isolated than ever.
A Weaker Ensemble Hurts the Formula
Part of what made Tracker stand out was its balance between Colter’s solo journeys and the contributions of his wider team. By trimming the cast, the show risks becoming overly reliant on Colter alone.
Procedurals with long lifespans—such as NCIS—have thrived not just because of compelling cases, but also thanks to strong ensembles that allowed multiple story arcs to develop over time. With only Colter, Reenie, and Randy left to carry the overarching narrative, Tracker may struggle to maintain variety across its 20-plus-episode seasons.
While Hartley has proven capable of anchoring the series, the danger lies in the show becoming repetitive. Colter’s weekly cases already dominate screen time, and without an ensemble to balance his perspective, the narrative risks growing stale.
Season 2 Showed the Risks
In season 2, Velma’s role had already been reduced following Teddi’s exit, highlighting how quickly the show’s balance could shift when ensemble members were removed. Although Randy’s arrival softened the impact of Bobby’s eventual departure, the series still lost part of the chemistry that made Colter’s dynamic with his team engaging.
Episodes where the team gathered—rare as they were—gave the audience a glimpse of Colter’s reluctant but genuine bond with his allies. Losing that element means season 3 risks leaning too heavily on repetitive case-of-the-week structures, without the character-driven depth fans came to expect.
How Tracker Can Fix Its Cast Problem
Despite the challenges, season 3 still has opportunities to strengthen the ensemble and ensure the show’s longevity. Several strategies could reinvigorate the cast and narrative:
Introduce New Allies
Season 2 proved that new characters can be woven in successfully, as seen with Randy. Season 3 could expand Colter’s circle by introducing new recurring characters—whether fellow investigators, legal advisors, or allies connected to his cases.
Expand Existing Characters
Recurring faces like Billie Matalon or Helen Brock have appeared multiple times and could be developed into more prominent roles. This approach would provide continuity while easing the pressure on Colter to carry every storyline.
Lean Into Family Arcs
Colter’s family history has been central to the show from the start. By bringing his family further into the narrative, Tracker could both expand its cast and deepen its mythology. Family members could transition from mystery figures into active participants in Colter’s investigations.
The Path Forward
CBS’s quick renewals for Tracker reflect just how strong its numbers are. Yet even the most popular procedural dramas must evolve to survive beyond a few seasons. Reducing the show’s ensemble to just a couple of recurring characters may simplify production, but it risks undermining the layered storytelling that fans enjoy.
For Tracker to thrive in season 3 and beyond, it must restore balance by building out its cast, expanding its arcs, and ensuring Colter isn’t left to carry the entire weight of the show. By doing so, it can preserve the intrigue that made it a breakout success while avoiding the pitfalls of narrative fatigue.
