Few shows embrace their identity as unapologetically as Tracker. Starring Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw, a modern-day nomad with an exceptional set of skills, the CBS procedural doesn’t try to reinvent the genre—it simply delivers an entertaining experience.
And judging by its viewership, it’s clearly doing something right.
A Ratings Powerhouse
When Tracker premiered on February 11, 2024, in the coveted post-Super Bowl slot, it didn’t just land—it dominated.
The show quickly became CBS’s most-watched entertainment series of the season, pulling in 30 million multiplatform viewers for its debut.
Its success continued, with the second episode alone reaching nearly 13 million viewers, cementing Tracker as one of the biggest breakout hits of the year.
With a growing audience and a second season already secured,
Tracker is proving that network TV still has a place in modern entertainment.
CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach expressed the network’s enthusiasm, stating:
“Tracker kicked off our premiere week with a ratings bang and has kept the momentum going. We knew we had something special when we saw the very first cut of the series, and the overwhelming audience response confirms it. We couldn’t be more grateful to Justin, the talented cast, the incredible writing and producing teams, and our partners at 20th Television for such compelling episodes. And, of course, we’re also so thankful to the millions of viewers tuning in each week.”
This statement underscores CBS’s commitment to Tracker as a long-term hit.
A Comprehensive Look at the Tracker Cast
At the heart of the show is Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw, a skilled survivalist who operates as a “rewardist,” tracking missing persons across the U.S. But Tracker wouldn’t be as engaging without its stellar supporting cast:
- Robin Weigert as Teddi Bruin, one of Colter’s handlers who provides him with key intel.
- Abby McEnany as Velma Bruin, Teddi’s wife and another key figure in Colter’s support system.
- Eric Graise as Bobby Exley, a hacker who aids Colter with tech-based investigations.
- Fiona Rene as Reenie Greene, a lawyer who helps him navigate legal complexities.
- Floriana Lima as Camille Picket, a Season 2 addition who brings a new dynamic to the team.
- Jensen Ackles as Russell Shaw, Colter’s estranged older brother, teasing deeper family tensions.
Each character plays a critical role in shaping Colter’s journey, ensuring Tracker offers more than just action-packed cases—it builds relationships that add emotional depth.
The Case-of-the-Week Format and Its Appeal
Each episode of Tracker follows Colter as he takes on a new missing persons case, blending elements of action, mystery, and emotional depth.
The episodic structure makes it accessible to casual viewers, while long-term fans can engage with the underlying mystery of Colter’s family history, which becomes more prominent as the season progresses.
Unlike high-concept prestige dramas, Tracker thrives on its straightforward, engaging storytelling.
The show’s formula works precisely because it doesn’t try to be something it’s not—it leans into its procedural strengths.
Season 2 and What’s Next for Tracker
With Tracker officially renewed for Season 2, expectations are high. CBS has doubled down on its success, signaling confidence in its longevity.
Future episodes will likely expand on Colter’s backstory, particularly the mystery surrounding his father’s death, while keeping the thrilling case-of-the-week format intact.
The Future of Tracker: A Procedural Done Right
In an era where networks scramble to hold onto live audiences,
Tracker doesn’t just survive—it thrives.
Instead of relying on nostalgia or shock tactics, it delivers an effortlessly entertaining mix of action, compelling mysteries, and a charismatic lead performance.
While critics might call it formulaic, that formula is exactly why it works.
It’s confident, consistent, and ultimately, fun. And in a TV landscape that sometimes forgets how to just let viewers enjoy themselves,
Tracker feels like a breath of fresh air.
