Jensen Ackles' potential reduced presence in Tracker Season 2 due to his new role in Prime Video's Countdown could limit the show's ensemble potential.
Fans of Jensen Ackles were thrilled when the Supernatural star made his debut in episode 12 of Tracker Season 1, portraying Russell Shaw, the elder brother of the series’ protagonist, Colter Shaw, played by Justin Hartley. As a self-proclaimed “rewardist,” Colter operates alone, solving cases and bringing closure to those searching for missing people. However, the arrival of Russell hinted at a possible shift, teasing the creation of an ensemble cast for the show's second season.
After being referenced throughout Season 1 in connection to the death of their father, Russell's appearance was highly anticipated. The reveal of his strained relationship with Colter added depth to both characters. Russell sought Colter's help in finding a missing friend, and in the process, began to rebuild the trust between the brothers. This reconciliation opened the door to what could have been an exciting new direction for Tracker, with a potential team dynamic taking shape between Colter, Russell, and Reenie Green (Fiona Rene), a lawyer who had also been pivotal to the show.
Yet, Ackles’ newly-announced leading role in Prime Video's Countdown has raised concerns among Tracker fans. Ackles will play LAPD officer Mark Meachum, the head of a secret undercover task force, in what promises to be a high-stakes police procedural from One Chicago creator Derek Haas. Given the time commitment required for a leading role in Countdown, it’s uncertain how much screen time Ackles will have in Tracker Season 2.
Tracker’s Ensemble Potential Cut Short?
The potential ensemble of Colter, Russell, and Reenie working together was hinted at in small yet significant moments throughout Tracker Season 1. Episode 12, where all three characters interacted, showcased chemistry between them, particularly in a flirtatious exchange between Russell and Reenie. There was even speculation of a possible love triangle, though that narrative would likely take a backseat to the professional dynamics between the trio.
Russell’s remote involvement in the Season 1 finale further implied that his character might be more fully integrated into Colter's world moving forward. With Colter’s lone wolf persona established, having a close-knit team including his brother and Reenie would have offered a fresh angle for Season 2. Fans were excited about the potential of a well-rounded team dynamic, with Colter’s detective skills, Russell’s charisma, and Reenie’s legal expertise complementing each other.
However, Ackles' new role in Countdown could jeopardize this ensemble setup. Though he's confirmed to appear in Tracker Season 2, his commitment to Countdown may limit his availability, reducing his character's impact in the ongoing story. Fans are now worried that the promising dynamic teased at the end of Season 1 might not fully materialize.
A Missed Opportunity for Tracker?
While Tracker has already achieved success—surpassing NCIS as the most-watched non-sports television show in the 2023-2024 season—some fans are concerned that Ackles’ reduced presence could impact the show's trajectory. The possibility of a well-rounded ensemble, featuring Colter, Russell, and Reenie working together, could have added more layers to the show’s procedural format. The Shaw brothers' reconciliation and the trio’s complementary skills set the stage for intriguing personal and professional conflicts in Season 2.
Though Tracker can certainly continue without Ackles in a prominent role, the show is undoubtedly better with him in it. His character, Russell Shaw, offered a new dynamic to Colter's solitary mission, creating opportunities for both narrative depth and emotional weight. With Countdown on the horizon, fans can only hope that Ackles’ commitments will allow him to maintain a significant presence in Tracker's second season, so the ensemble potential hinted at in Season 1 doesn't go to waste.
As viewers eagerly await the return of Tracker, the balance between Ackles’ two roles remains uncertain. While Countdown is shaping up to be an exciting addition to Ackles' résumé, Tracker fans will continue to hold out hope for more of the Shaw brothers—and the potential ensemble—working together in Season 2.
