Jensen Ackles' Tracker Role: Why a black ops spinoff is PERFECT (But Probably Won't Happen!)
Jensen Ackles in Tracker: A Black Ops Spinoff We Need (But May Not Get!)
Whoa, Jensen Ackles (Supernatural) is totally killing it in Tracker! His portrayal of Russell Shaw in CBS's hit show starring Justin Hartley has shown incredible potential and created a new character so cool; this one alone should generate a spin-off, something hinted at throughout this very article.
Season 2 has made it abundantly clear: Russell's character could and probably should star in his own black ops series. But... there's a catch, those things might just not happen because of conflicting perspectives which ultimately could limit how the Tracker spin-off ultimately happens. Will they do it? Let's unpack the awesome potential (and the unfortunate realities)!
Russell Shaw: From Suspect to Action Hero
In Tracker's first season, Russell Shaw starts as the prime suspect in the mysterious death of his dad. But by the finale, he joins his brother Colter Shaw, who stars as that cool bounty hunter. The episode titled “Off the Books” hints at an intriguing black ops career working with a shady organization. Russell’s background in the military; which is explored much more deeply in “Ontological Shock” (episode 2, Season 2), demonstrates this extremely strong set of capabilities and hints toward incredible black ops potential which makes viewers curious! His stealthy skills make him appear highly competent!
His reappearance in Tracker season 2 shows Russell is much more than just a figure involved in a family mystery: He is an action star all his own! When Colter gets himself into trouble near a Department of Defense site; who saves the day? The extremely capable Russell; easily infiltrating that secured site showing amazing prowess. The show's producers and writers were incredibly effective at creating another awesome, larger-than-life character! A seriously strong contender for another cool spy thriller.
Why a Russell Shaw Spinoff Would Totally Rock
A Russell Shaw spin-off based on Tracker would do multiple things: expand his shady organization, show that amazing work, and unravel his own past; using it to add intrigue; yet a great many storylines within the larger show's timeline could greatly increase how many viewers expect that kind of dramatic impact, to really work for Russell as a larger, compelling plot element.
That spin-off could work exceptionally well if styled similarly to Tracker: Using procedural aspects with some larger, more serious arcs focusing on some bigger themes, and putting Russell across various exotic locations. This blends procedural storytelling within Tracker, but creates additional plot points based on his background. It's perfectly in line with the series itself.
Will Ackles' Other Projects Get in the Way? A Packed Schedule!
Sadly, even his fantastic work might not happen. Jensen Ackles has a seriously busy schedule! This actor has taken some serious opportunities with three new projects besides Tracker (Season 2!): Season 5 of The Boys (reprising his Soldier Boy role); the The Boys spinoff, Vought Rising; and the leading role in Amazon's Countdown. That alone means plenty of scheduling conflicts for another series!
There's hope. This is actually a great point; showcasing another reason why Tracker could work for this extremely competent and talented actor! Ackles has been mainly limited to guest starring appearances following Supernatural’s conclusion. It really shows he can fully take that main role on network TV. A spin-off focused on him is incredibly beneficial – boosting both the Tracker franchise and Ackles' career. And Ackles easily outshines Hartley, sometimes even totally stealing those particular scenes in Tracker— giving compelling reasons why having another show focused on that character entirely would likely achieve even better success!
The Verdict: A Potential Spinoff Hindered by Other Priorities?
This show’s producers remain uncertain. While Tracker's future appears uncertain, having another series centered on Russell Shaw would’ve been perfect! And Ackles’s amazing performances give more credence and more demand. Yet even if those creative individuals choose not to use this massive and highly relevant and appropriate storytelling potential; it shouldn't stop viewers from desiring something great!
This leaves viewers desiring another spy-action-thriller for this actor!
