Justin Hartley Discusses How Season 3 of ‘Tracker’ Changes Everything for Colter
SPOILERS AHEAD: CBS’s Tracker Midseason Premiere Shifts Focus to Colter Shaw
Colter Shaw finds himself in a challenging predicament as the midseason premiere of CBS’s Tracker aired on Sunday. This time, instead of being the pursuer in the hunt for missing individuals, Shaw is on the run, having been wrongfully accused of a crime he did not commit.
Justin Hartley, the executive producer and star of the series, has expressed excitement about this new narrative direction. After establishing the procedural format in the first two seasons, he believes incorporating a twist in Shaw’s journey will surprise and engage viewers.
In a recent interview, Hartley elaborated on the evolution of the show and how the latest episode reflects a maturation in its storytelling.
“Many ideas evolve when considering the long-term future of the show,” Hartley explained. “Once it became clear that the audience was invested, I contemplated deeper storylines that go beyond resolving conflicts in a 42-minute format. Introducing a serialized aspect offers something rewarding for long-time viewers while still being accessible to newcomers.”
He recalled a brainstorming session from over a year ago, during which he imagined turning Shaw’s skills on their head. “What if he had to utilize his expertise to escape and evade capture instead of helping others?” he mused. This shift allows for fresh character interactions and unexpected alliances, creating a storyline where Shaw navigates challenges in unconventional ways.
Hartley highlighted the importance of maintaining the show’s essence while exploring serialized elements. “We want to stay true to Tracker’s tone,” he said. “It’s crucial that every hour provides a satisfying payoff for the viewers who invest their time.”
Explaining the collaborative nature of the production, he mentioned the unique working situation among producers and crew, where various ideas are brought to life through adaptive practices on set.
Over the course of three seasons, Hartley noted his growing familiarity with the show and its characters. “Each experience indeed changes Shaw, reflecting a progression in his emotional depth and decision-making,” he stated. This character development aligns closely with real human experiences, demonstrating how life lessons influence reactions.
Addressing the escalating stakes within the series, Hartley remarked on the commitment to portraying genuine danger. “The audience should feel that Shaw is human and vulnerable, not always safe,” he asserted. He believes this approach deepens viewer engagement with his character’s struggles and triumphs.
As the series continues, Hartley anticipates further exploration of Shaw’s emotional landscape, particularly in response to trauma and stress. “There’s a possibility of Shaw facing significant physical or mental challenges,” he acknowledged, hinting at future dramatic developments in his character arc.
He also revealed the importance of the relationships Shaw maintains, particularly with Billie. “It’s vital that we showcase moments where Shaw is asked how he’s doing,” Hartley said, noting how such interactions reflect the character’s caring nature amid turmoil.
Looking ahead to the remainder of Season 3, Hartley promised that viewers would uncover more about Shaw’s family background, providing essential context for his present circumstances. “By the season’s end, many questions will be addressed,” he indicated.
The recent renewal for a fourth season has further energized the cast and crew. “There are countless possibilities for Shaw’s journey,” Hartley noted, expressing enthusiasm for future storylines. “Having early confirmation of Season 4 allows our writers to plan long-term arcs, enriching the narrative fabric of the show.”
Hartley concluded by sharing his desire to reintroduce beloved characters in upcoming episodes, further enhancing the connection with the audience. He expressed confidence that the unfolding storylines will continue to captivate viewers and keep Tracker dynamic and fresh.
