CBS has a new hit on its hands with Tracker, a thrilling drama that brings together a talented ensemble of actors led by This Is Us star Justin Hartley. As the show dives into the world of crime-solving with a personal twist, fans are eager to know more about the characters who populate the series and the actors who bring them to life. Here’s a breakdown of the Tracker cast and the key roles they play in this suspense-filled new drama.
Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw
At the heart of Tracker is Justin Hartley, who plays Colter Shaw, a lone-wolf investigator who travels the country solving crimes and finding missing persons. Shaw, a survivalist raised in isolation, relies on his unique tracking skills and a mysterious past that keeps the audience intrigued. Hartley, widely recognized for his Emmy-nominated performance as Kevin Pearson on This Is Us, is perfectly cast as Shaw, blending action and emotional depth into the role of this complex, resourceful character.
Sofia Pernas as Ariana
Sofia Pernas portrays Ariana, a tech-savvy private investigator who works closely with Shaw on his cases. A sharp and independent character, Ariana is a key ally with a personal connection to the world of crime-solving. Pernas, best known for her work on Blood & Treasure, brings charisma and charm to the role, offering both tension and chemistry in her scenes with Hartley’s Shaw.
Robin Weigert as Alice Shaw
Robin Weigert, a veteran of Deadwood and Sons of Anarchy, plays Alice Shaw, Colter’s enigmatic mother. Although Alice’s story is told mostly through flashbacks, her influence on Colter's life and his investigative methods is undeniable. As a survivalist herself, Alice taught Colter everything he knows about tracking, making her a crucial character in understanding his motives and personal code.
James Roday Rodriguez as Ethan Calloway
James Roday Rodriguez, famous for his comedic role in Psych, takes on the character of Ethan Calloway, a cynical ex-cop who now runs a detective agency. He has a complicated past with Colter Shaw, and their relationship adds tension to the storyline as they collaborate—sometimes reluctantly—on tough cases. Rodriguez brings his signature wit and energy to the show, but his portrayal of Calloway also reveals a more dramatic side.
CCH Pounder as Evelyn Mathis
Legendary actress CCH Pounder plays Evelyn Mathis, a wise and seasoned FBI agent who seeks Shaw’s expertise on high-profile cases. Pounder, known for her iconic roles in The Shield and NCIS: New Orleans, adds gravitas to the cast with her commanding screen presence. Evelyn Mathis is tough but fair, and her partnership with Shaw creates a compelling dynamic throughout the series.
Supporting Cast
- David Castaneda (The Umbrella Academy) makes guest appearances as Detective Ray Diaz, a law enforcement officer who often finds himself at odds with Shaw’s unorthodox methods.
- Katrina Law (Arrow, NCIS) plays Sarah Quinn, a journalist who begins to follow Shaw’s cases for a career-making story, but ends up becoming personally involved in the dangerous situations he encounters.
- Brandon Jay McLaren (Graceland) portrays a mysterious figure from Shaw’s past who complicates his present-day investigations.
Behind the Scenes
Tracker is created by Ken Biller and Gavin Hood, the team behind shows like Legends and Homeland. Their experience with tension-filled, character-driven stories is apparent in the show’s mix of personal drama and gripping procedural elements. The cinematography and action sequences elevate the show, making Tracker more than just a crime drama, but a visual and emotional rollercoaster that explores themes of justice, family, and morality.
What to Expect from the Show
With a strong cast led by Justin Hartley, Tracker promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The combination of high-stakes cases, complex characters, and emotional undercurrents gives this new CBS series the potential to become a major hit. Whether you’re tuning in for the crime-solving mysteries or the intense character dynamics, Tracker offers something for everyone.
For fans of Justin Hartley and gritty crime dramas, Tracker is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about shows of the season.
