The CBS drama Tracker is making big changes for its fourth season. The show’s lead actor Justin Hartley has confirmed that Jensen Ackles will return as Russell Shaw in the upcoming season. This news comes after Ackles’ character had a mysterious exit in the season 3 finale.
The new season of Tracker premieres on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at 9:30 PM ET on CBS. The show will be preceded by a new drama called Marshals at 8:30 PM ET.
Jensen Ackles Returns as Russell Shaw After Season 3 Cliffhanger
At the end of season 3, Russell Shaw left without telling his brother Colter where he was going. He called Reenie (Fiona Rene) and asked her to keep his secret. This left viewers wondering if the character would come back.
Justin Hartley confirmed at the Televerse 26 event in Los Angeles that Ackles would be returning. During the event, Hartley joked about his co-star:
“He’s really talented and extremely ugly. It’s really hard to look at. But other than the looks, he has this incredible work ethic and charm and charisma and talent and all of that.”
Hartley also shared what it is like working with Ackles:
“What you don’t know, what you don’t see unless you work with people — and he’s one of them — is just his desire to be on point all the time. It is so cool to be around. I think it inspires other people as well.”
Russell Shaw has appeared in six episodes of Tracker so far and has become a favorite among viewers. His return adds a strong family element to the show that many fans enjoy.
What to Expect from Russell’s Storyline in Season 4
In season 3, Russell received a file about the Shaw family’s dark past. The contents of the file were so shocking that Russell chose to leave and work for a shadowy organization to protect his brother. He made a deal with McIntyre to burn the file in exchange for completing a task.
Justin Hartley has teased that Russell will be in trouble in season 4 and will need Colter’s help. The two brothers will work together to solve the problem. Hartley explained:
“Yeah, he’s coming back, he’s coming back actually. He’ll be here next week.”
He also shared more about the brotherly dynamic:
“I thought it was really cool what we did last season. We left him in a place where he was doing something for Colter — keeping a secret from him, but for Colter’s own good.”
The new season will show the complications between the brothers even though Russell left to protect Colter.
Production Moves from Vancouver to Los Angeles
Tracker is moving production from Vancouver, Canada, to Los Angeles for season 4. The show secured a $48 million California tax credit that made the move possible.
Justin Hartley spoke about the production move:
“The show has to evolve.”
Filming in Los Angeles has been a positive change for Hartley since it is his hometown. The production team is following the same format of a road show without using a studio. Each episode takes about 8-9 days to film.
The move to Los Angeles allows the show to explore bigger ideas and deliver more ambitious storytelling. The season 3 finale set up this change when Colter drove his trailer to a new base and met John Keaton.
Major Cast Changes for Tracker Season 4
Tracker has seen many cast changes since it started in 2024. Several original cast members have left the show over its run.
Robin Weigert, who played Teddi, left the show earlier. Abby McEnany, who played Velma Bruin, also exited before season 3. Eric Graise, who played hacker Bobby Exley, will not return for season 4.
Chris Lee, who plays Randy, has been promoted to series regular for season 4. Randy was introduced in season 2 as Bobby’s cousin and took over as the tech specialist. He quickly became a key member of the team.
Fiona Rene will return as Reenie Green, the attorney who helps Colter. She is one of the few original cast members still with the show.
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Show Keeps Its Core Format Despite Changes
CBS has confirmed that Tracker will keep its focus on finding missing people. The show’s official social media account shared:
“Every missing person has a story. Every lead matters.”
The main mystery about Colter’s father’s death was solved in season 3. This opens up the show for new storylines in season 4.
Tracker remains one of CBS’s top-rated shows. It was renewed for season 4 in January 2026 while season 3 was still airing. The show has been a strong performer for the network since it debuted.
Tracker Season 4 premieres on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at 9:30 PM ET on CBS. Viewers can also stream the show on Paramount+. With Jensen Ackles back, a new filming location, and fresh storylines, the new season offers plenty of reasons for fans to tune in.
Also Read: CBS Sets Fall 2026 Premiere Dates for Marshals, Tracker, NCIS and More Returning Shows
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