A new update about Jensen Ackles' new Amazon Prime Video show reveals details about Russell Shaw's role in Tracker season 2. Jensen Ackles debuted as Russell Shaw, Justin Hartley's Colter Shaw's older brother, in the penultimate episode of Tracker season 1. When Ackles appeared, he attempted to clear his character's name, since he had previously taken the blame for the murder of the Shaw family patriarch, Ashton Shaw. However, since the brothers were also working the show's weekly case, there were still so many questions left for them to answer in Tracker season 2.
Despite his brief involvement, the Supernatural alum was one of the most essential Tracker cast members in season 1. As such, there's interest in Russell's involvement in season 2, especially since Ackles was cast in a new Amazon Prime Video series by Derek Haas called Countdown. There was speculation that the new streaming project would interfere with his season 2 involvement. Luckily, Tracker showrunners have confirmed that Ackles will be back. He's already returned to film an episode, and new Countdown details fill in what else to expect from Russell in Tracker season 2.
What We Know About Ackles' Tracker Season 2 Role
Tracker showrunners revealed several details regarding what to expect from Ackles' return as Russell in season 2. In July 2024, Jensen Ackles' Tracker comeback got a definitive response from showrunner Elwood Reid, who confirmed that he would be back for season 2 for multiple episodes. When speaking at a panel during the Television Critics Association's summer press tour, Reid said, "We got him, he's coming back." His comment implied how tricky it would be to bring back Russell, considering Ackles' busy schedule. Luckily, they were able to figure out a working schedule.
Ackles is confirmed to appear in Tracker season 2, episode 2, giving Russell an early start in the coming season. This is a welcome change, considering he didn't feature until the end of season 1. At this point, Ackles already returned to Tracker's set to film the said season 2 outing. That said, he is due for a few more trips to Canada to shoot the rest. Given the last time that they were together, Russell and Colter are expected to have a more connected relationship, as the brothers team up for a new mission.
Ackles' Countdown Starts Filming In September
Jensen Ackles Will Expand His Prime Video Presence
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In addition to his work for Tracker,Jensen Ackles starts filming for his new Amazon Prime Video series, Countdown, in September. The new project is created by Haas, who previously spearheaded Dick Wolf's One Chicago. Now, the screenwriter will work with Ackles to bring the actor's Mark Meachum character to life for the streaming project. Ackles will play an LAPD officer recruited to join a task force of undercover agents from many facets of law enforcement.
In addition to Countdown and Tracker,Ackles will star in an upcoming spinoff of The Boys called Vought Rising. The series will follow Ackles' Solider Boy character, who he established in season 3 of The Boys, a Prime Original about a group of superheroes. While Ackles will be able to balance all his upcoming roles, Jensen Ackles' Countdown filming update reveals new details about how the busy actor's schedule will shake out, and it's promising for Tracker season 2.
Countdown Filming Schedule Suggests Ackles' Russell Will Return Towards The End Of Tracker Season 2
Russell Can Appear In The Tracker Season 2 Penultimate Episode And Finale
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The filming schedule for Countdown suggests new details about how Ackles could be involved in the remainder of Tracker season 2. Since Countdown is on Amazon, it will likely only have six to eight episodes, which is typical for a streaming platform series. As such, Ackles could return to Tracker season 2 toward the end of the season, meaning Russell could be involved in the penultimate episode and season 2 finale. Ackles' Russell Shaw made an impact toward the end of Tracker season 1 when he appeared to set up the finale, making his end-of-season presence promising.
When Russell returns to Tracker, Ackles' character can assist his brother with investigations that arise. Russell can also provide Colter with valuable intel on what happened to their father, including more details about the man who was with Russell in the woods the night Ashton died. With Russell's vital role in Tracker season 2, it's promising that Ackles will likely return toward the end of the season. Additionally, Ackles can set up or be involved in the Tracker season 2 finale, which could finally resolve the Shaw family mystery.
