CBS’s latest procedural drama, Tracker, has made a remarkable impact after just one season, becoming the most-watched show of the 2023-2024 TV season. Debuting after Super Bowl LVIII, the series stars Justin Hartley, returning to television after his acclaimed role in NBC’s This Is Us. Unlike his ensemble work on the family drama, Tracker puts Hartley front and center as Colter Shaw, a "rewardist" — a man who tracks people for money.
The show is based on Jeffery Deaver’s 2019 novel The Never Game, and despite only running for 13 episodes, it surpassed even the long-running NCIS in viewership. Speaking at the Television Critics Association (TCA) Summer Tour, Hartley reflected on Tracker’s rapid success, pointing to the uniqueness of his character as a key reason for its widespread appeal.
“This guy leads with his heart,” Hartley said of Colter Shaw. “We don’t necessarily see that when we think of a character like this. He’s able to be there and fix all these problems for other people, but there’s this one thing he can’t get out of the way of — himself — as smart as he is.”
Colter Shaw stands out from typical rugged protagonists. Despite his tough exterior, Hartley emphasizes his character’s depth and vulnerability. This contrast between Shaw’s intelligence and emotional struggles seems to have struck a chord with audiences, offering a fresh take on the lone wolf archetype commonly seen in crime dramas.
The Road Ahead: Maintaining Tracker's Momentum in Season 2
While Tracker’s first season was an undeniable hit, continuing this momentum into season 2 presents a challenge. Some of television’s most iconic series, including NCIS and MASH, experienced growing pains early on, which makes Tracker’s instant success even more impressive. However, as Hartley also serves as a producer on the show, he will play a crucial role in ensuring that Tracker remains compelling moving forward.
One of the main ways to keep the show fresh is to explore Colter Shaw’s character in more depth. As the sole protagonist, Shaw’s journey must continue to evolve, whether by putting him in more complex situations that test his mental and physical abilities or through the relationships he builds with the new people he encounters.
Expanding the stories of supporting characters could also be a strategic move to sustain audience interest. By developing the surrounding cast, the series can diversify its storytelling, appealing to a broader range of viewers and keeping the show dynamic.
Finally, a key plotline that captivated audiences in season 1 — the mystery surrounding the death of Colter Shaw’s father — needs to progress in the upcoming season. The mystery runs parallel to the show’s weekly cases, adding an overarching narrative that deepens the stakes. Whether or not Tracker resolves this mystery in season 2 remains to be seen, but advancing the story is crucial to maintaining the show’s intrigue.
An Impressive Start With More to Come
In a crowded landscape of procedural dramas, Tracker has already carved out its place as a standout hit. With Justin Hartley leading both on and off-screen, the show has successfully combined compelling character development with thrilling weekly mysteries. As Tracker heads into season 2, all eyes will be on how it builds on its impressive start, ensuring it continues to resonate with audiences and remains a key player in CBS’s lineup.
Source: Trib Live
