Will Jensen Ackles Return for Tracker Season 3 with Potential Cast Changes?
What do the ongoing discussions about reconfiguring the Tracker cast imply for Jensen Ackles and his potential return as Justin Hartley‘s brother in season 3?
Ackles, 47, hinted at his future on the popular CBS series during an interview with Collider on Thursday, June 19, stating, “We are in talks as we speak. That is being discussed, so I’m hopeful [about returning].”
Despite his busy schedule, Ackles appeared committed to making an appearance in season 3.
“Justin is a dear friend, and it’s always a pleasure to work with him,” he added. “So, yes, there are discussions about bringing me back [in season 3]. As for the specifics, I’m not sure yet.”
Ackles’ character, Russell, has reunited with his brother Colter (Hartley) on several occasions throughout the show. Fans, however, were worried that Ackles might not be back for the third season given his commitments to The Boys, Countdown, and the The Boys prequel series, Vought Rising.
Executive producer Elwood Reid also surprised us by hinting at some changes for Tracker in the upcoming season.
“I do think it’s evolving. If I can’t evolve those characters — Randy, Reenie, or Bobby — they can’t just pick up the phone and say, ‘Here’s the answer.’ That approach feels lazy,” he explained to Us Weekly in May. “The challenge lies in exploring their complexities, which I find intriguing. The show’s strength is avoiding a formulaic approach.”
Reid emphasized their desire for Tracker not to “fall into complacency.”
“The only rule I have for the show is that each week, Colter will arrive in a new location with a new case to solve. How he finds those answers and the team dynamics are open to exploration,” Reid teased. “We’re also planning to meet more local, quirky characters as the season progresses. It’s entertaining to see Justin interact with really talented guest stars.”
According to Reid, no character is safe — including Colter. “There’s both a physical and an emotional aspect to it. We’ve seen that a few times during the season,” he noted. “I constantly remind the writers that he’s human; he can die and get hurt.”
Reid added: “Justin often suggests that we have an episode where Colter is nearly dead midway through, and we flashback. He has all sorts of creative ideas, which makes the show exciting. The moment he becomes invincible, he’s out. That’s not what Justin wants to portray, and I don’t think that’s the essence of the character.”
While Tracker seeks to implement some changes, Reid did not dismiss the idea of expanding the universe with a spinoff.
“I’m going to try to steal Jensen,” he jokingly told Us. “We’ve collaborated on another show in the past, so I’m going to attempt to lure him away from The Boys [and Countdown].”
Tracker is currently available for streaming on Paramount+.
