2024 saw the launch of “Tracker,” a gripping weekly procedural based on Jeffrey Deaver’s crime novels, now in its second season and gearing up for a third. As Colter Shaw, a versatile survivalist tracker played by Justin Hartley (once known for an “Aquaman” spin-off that never saw the light of day), I crisscross the nation, seeking justice wherever it’s needed. Usually, this involves assisting law enforcement with baffling missing persons cases that leave the authorities at a loss.
Equipped with an impressive array of skills that might make Liam Neeson envious, Shaw is attracted to cases involving those often overlooked by the law. He’s supported in his work by Teddi (Robin Weigert) and Velma Bruin (Abby McEnany), a married pair who assist him in selecting suitable cases; computer whiz Bobby Exley (Eric Graise); and legal advisor Reenie Greene (Fiona Rene).
A blend of adventure, police procedural, and character-driven narrative, “Tracker” is an ideal prime-time drama. Despite only two seasons and 33 episodes, viewers may find themselves yearning for more. However, while we eagerly await the next season, here’s a list of shows you’ll enjoy if you’re a fan of “Tracker.”
If you’re hooked on “Tracker,” check out these other great shows to watch as we wait for more!
1. “Longmire” – A crime drama set in Wyoming that combines mystery and Western elements.
2. “Justified” – A FX series about a U.S. Marshal enforcing the law in a rural part of Kentucky.
3. “Banshee” – An action-packed crime drama following an ex-con posing as a sheriff in a small town.
4. “Fargo” – An anthology series exploring different stories within the world of crime and morality.
5. “Sons of Anarchy” – A drama about a motorcycle club struggling to protect their town while maintaining their criminal empire.
Alert: Missing Persons Unit
Tracker” introduces Colter Shaw, an autonomous detective, driven to aid others following a life-altering personal catastrophe. The series “Alert: Missing Persons Unit” follows suit by zeroing in on a law enforcement sector pursuing the same objective. The narrative revolves around two main characters seeking solace and purpose in their professional roles as tireless investigators, both grappling with a shared pain – the mysterious disappearance of their son many years ago.
Attention: Unit for Missing Individuals” features Dania Ramirez as Captain Nikki Batista, who heads Philadelphia’s Missing Persons Unit. Scott Caan, known for his father’s role in “The Godfather,” portrays her former husband, Detective Jason Grant, who re-joins the force with her. In their professional assignments, they tackle human trafficking, abductions, and similar cases. However, amidst these investigations, the ex-spouses are equally dedicated to locating their son, a personal quest that continues between their work tasks.
Developed by renowned actor Jamie Foxx and Executive Producer Jason Eisendrath, “Alert: Missing Persons” combines episodic investigations with an overarching enigma, setting it apart from regular weekly procedurals. This unique blend resembles a fusion of shows like “Tracker” and more profound, mystery-centric crime dramas such as BBC’s “Broadchurch.” It promises to be an intense prime-time drama that will captivate fans who enjoy the style of Colter Shaw.
Found
In the realm of shows that center around the quest for missing individuals, some opt for the solitary, unconventional hero style as seen in “Tracker.” Conversely, others prefer a law enforcement-centric narrative like “Missing Persons Unit.” The upcoming 2023 series “Found” presents a unique blend, introducing us to a protagonist who doesn’t fit either mold. She’s not a solitary figure nor a member of law enforcement, but rather a crisis management expert with a personal crusade – to locate missing persons that have stumped traditional investigation teams.
Gabrielle Mosely, portrayed by Shanola Hampton, has built a career in public relations, which now serves her well on an unusual assignment. Her team members, much like herself, carry the weight of past tragedies. Margaret Reed, played by Kelli Williams, yearns to one day locate her long-lost son. Lacey Quinn and Mark Trent, characters played by Gabrielle Walsh and Brett Dalton respectively, were both victims of a notorious kidnapper known as “Sir,” whose real name is Hugh Evans, portrayed by Mark-Paul Gosselaar, who continues to haunt them. Zeke Wallace, acted by Arlen Escarpeta, was taken away as a child by a relative. Lastly, Dhan Rana, played by Karan Oberoi, is a former military personnel who endured three years of captivity at the hands of enemies.
A hard-hitting series without fear of delving into the depths of human resilience in pursuit of justice, “Found” stands out from the crowd. Despite airing for just two seasons, it could have easily blended into ordinary drama territory. However, its success lies in its sharp writing and exceptional acting that elevate it above the norm.
Justified
In “Tracker,” we meet a man, disillusioned with the law’s limitations in assisting the underdog, willing to go to great lengths to save lives and aid those in distress. “Justified” presents a comparable hero, but one who operates within the system as a Deputy U.S. Marshal. Timothy Olyphant plays Raylan Givens, a native Kentuckian who returns home following a contentious on-duty shooting. He’s a rule-breaker who champions justice, sometimes by bending or overstepping the law.
Despite being part of a unit comprising Marshals such as Tim Gutterson, a former Army Ranger, and Rachel Brooks, a diligent and often underestimated team member, Raylan Givens frequently encounters situations where he pursues criminals and tracks suspects independently. His primary adversary is Boyd Crowder, a cunning white supremacist and drug dealer who proves to be a more formidable enemy than anticipated.
Over six exceptional seasons, the show “Justified” unfolded both individual episodes and broader story arcs. Known not only for its gripping crime narratives but also its quirky ensemble of protagonists and antagonists, this series was highly praised by critics and frequently ranks among the top crime dramas of the 21st century. However, what truly sets “Justified” apart is its central character, who, like Colter Shaw, is a charismatic, roguish hero and may very well be one of the most endearing law enforcement figures in TV history.
Without a Trace
In terms of TV series focusing on missing individuals, one long-lasting success that paved the way for others is the crime drama “Without A Trace.” This show shares a fictional world with the “CSI” series due to a crossover episode. It initially aired in 2002 and revolves around the activities of the FBI’s Missing Persons Unit, led by Supervisory Special Agent Jack Malone (Anthony LaPaglia). Working under him is a squad of exceptional investigators handpicked by the FBI.
In each episode, this team dedicates its runtime to locating a different missing person, whether they’re a victim of a deranged kidnapper, a child caught up in a bitter custody dispute, or a dangerous sex trafficker. Every week, the Multi-Purpose Unit goes to great lengths to ensure their safe return, often bearing significant personal sacrifices.
The police drama series “Without a Trace” ranks among the top in its genre, delivering exceptional quality. It excels at crafting heavyweight stories and captivating characters that hold your attention. Imagine it as a spin-off of “Law & Order,” focusing on missing persons cases. Each member of the Major Case Policy Unit (MPU) offers unique abilities, contributing to the team effort in resolving the country’s most challenging mysteries. While they may not possess the unconventional talents showcased by Colter Shaw, every team member brings something distinct and valuable to the table.
MacGyver (2016)
Colter Shaw possesses abilities that extend beyond typical law enforcement capabilities. If there was a true counterpart for him on television, it could be Angus MacGyver, the protagonist of the show “MacGyver.” However, while the original ’80s TV series featuring Richard Dean Anderson is worth watching, fans of “Tracker” might prefer the 2016 reboot even more. In this updated version, Lucas Till portrays MacGyver, bringing the character into modern times while keeping most other aspects unchanged. The title character is a hero for everyday people, but not entirely solitary. He works for a clandestine, lesser-known private agency known as the Phoenix Foundation, whose mission is to ensure global safety.
Working under the Foundation’s direction, MacGyver journeys across the nation providing aid wherever it’s required, be it dismantling a terrorist group, saving a hostage, or thwarting a burglary ring. However, despite working for a covert agency, MacGyver frequently disagrees with their instructions and methods, choosing to act against his superiors. It’s important to note that what is just isn’t always lawful, nor does it always align with the objectives of national authorities – and MacGyver prioritizes justice over upholding the law or preserving the global status quo.
In the creative universe spearheaded by producer Peter M. Lenkov, the series “MacGyver” shares continuity with other shows under his brand. Notably, it intersected with the 2018 revival of “Hawaii Five-0,” offering a more expansive backdrop compared to “Tracker.
Joe Pickett
The series “Tracker,” modeled after Jeffrey Deaver’s extensive collection of airport crime books, has found success, much like other shows derived from long-running crime fiction series. Similarly, “Joe Pickett” on Paramount+ is an adaptation of pulp crime novels by C.J. Box. This show, named after its protagonist, unfolds in the rugged landscapes of Wyoming. The story revolves around a game warden who embodies a unique kind of hero. He’s not your typical tough guy; instead, he’s a compassionate and empathetic man who rectifies wrongdoings using a blend of kindness, old-fashioned determination, and courage.
In a style reminiscent of contemporary Westerns, “Joe Pickett” unfolds the concealed wrongdoings and unspoken threats that seep into the expansive landscapes of the Midwest. The show follows one man, much like Colter Shaw, who staunchly refuses to look away as these incidents transpire. Michael Dorman portrays Joe Pickett, while Julianna Guill brings Marybeth to life. Their bond serves as a crucial element in the narrative, as their lives are entangled by the hazardous aspects of Joe’s profession.
Absolutely, the series doesn’t just focus on the crimes and cases, but also delves deeply into the life and struggles of our main character, the title hero. He is a composed and peace-loving law enforcer who tries to avoid conflict, but if necessary, he won’t hesitate to engage in a fight. However, his past has cast him as an outsider within his community.
The Hunting Party
In the show “Tracker,” Melissa Roxburgh portrays Dr. Dory Shaw, Colter’s sister and a physics professor, who makes an appearance in two episodes. However, following her debut on the series, Roxburgh was promoted to the lead role in her own show. Here, she takes on the role of the fearless detective. In “The Hunting Party,” instead of searching for missing individuals, Roxburgh’s character, Rebecca “Bex” Henderson, is a talented FBI criminal profiler who hunts some of the world’s most dangerous serial killers.
The narrative commences with the unearthing of a concealed subterranean prison housing the country’s most heinous murderers. Designed for their isolation from society, this prison serves as their confinement. However, an unforeseen calamity causes the prison to collapse, freeing the serial killers who then terrorize an unsuspecting populace. Now, it falls upon Henderson and his specialized team to regularly undertake the task of apprehending these ruthless predators and returning them to their rightful place in custody.
Despite receiving unfavorable critic reviews during its 2025 debut, the audience ratings were impressive. Critics primarily pointed out that the series lacks originality, as it blends elements from shows such as “The Blacklist,” “Blindspot,” and “Prodigal Son.” However, a show doesn’t always have to be something entirely new; often, we simply want another series that satisfies our familiar cravings — and “The Hunting Party” does just that.
Will Trent
Similar to the show “Tracker,” ABC’s police procedural “Will Trent” revolves around a tenacious investigator dealing with challenging cases week by week. Just like “Tracker,” it’s adapted from a series of crime novels, but this time by author Karin Slaughter. What sets “Will Trent” apart is its title character, who isn’t your typical rugged male lead like Colter Shaw. Instead, he shares similarities with “Monk’s” Adrian Monk – an unconventional and peculiar detective using his unique talents within the Georgia Bureau of Investigations to solve his most demanding cases. This bureau is a real division of law enforcement in Georgia.
Born into foster care, Trent carries a deep empathy for those who are struggling, and his keen eye for detail makes him an ideal fit for this role. Dressed in formal attire and frequently accompanied by his small dog, Trent adds a touch of playful wit to the series without compromising its seriousness. Throughout the show’s three seasons so far, he has tackled cases ranging from baffling murders to mysterious suicides and a gang of car thieves. Amidst all this, he juggles complex relationships, both personal and professional.
Walker
It’s quite possible that Colter Shaw should sport a Stetson, as it seems that do-gooding loners, such as Raylan Givens, Joe Pickett, and Cordell Walker, often favor wide-brimmed hats. Much like Shaw, the legendary Texas Ranger Walker possesses numerous skills; he’s a one-man team who can handle any situation, using his abilities to aid those in distress. Although you might be more accustomed to the ’90s TV series featuring Chuck Norris, “Walker: Texas Ranger,” fans of “Tracker” may find themselves drawn even further to the reboot, simply called “Walker.
Debuting in 2020, the series “Walker” features Jared Padalecki, once known for his role on “Supernatural,” donning a cowboy hat. Similar to his predecessor, he is a law enforcer, dedicated to championing the underdog and never shying away from confrontation when necessary. However, unlike the original character, this Walker is a tough, no-nonsense fighter with intricate emotional depth. The story unfolds as he grapples with grief over his wife’s passing and struggles to reconnect with his daughter, Stella (portrayed by Violet Brinson). Balancing the repair of their relationship and combating petty criminals, kidnappers, and powerful kingpins becomes a challenging undertaking for Walker.
Unlike what one may anticipate, the revamped “Walker” leans more towards a subtler genre of light crime drama, similar to “Tracker.” Its debut season garnered mixed responses, but as it progressed, it gained momentum and continued for four seasons before concluding its run.
Reacher
If you’re a fan of “Tracker” and prefer a protagonist who’s more of a tough guy rather than a detective, then you might appreciate “Reacher.” Although the main character is intelligent enough to solve crimes with ease, he’s usually ready to use his fists instead of his brain. This isn’t surprising given his massive build, cold and calculating nature, and former career as an Army Major. He seems to relish situations that require physical confrontations with his adversaries.
Derived from another set of novels about airports and action, “Reacher” serves as a sort of fresh start, following two well-received “Jack Reacher” films featuring Tom Cruise. Unlike these movies, this new adaptation has gained more favor among readers of the books due in large part to the performance of lead actor Alan Ritchson, who portrays the towering, muscular fighter from the pages with a greater degree of authenticity compared to the 5’8″ Cruise.
The series effectively showcases Ritchson’s physical prowess, but it also highlights Reacher’s compassion and his inclination towards aiding those who are frequently neglected by the law, similar to Colter Shaw. To add to this, the lead actor of “Tracker”, Justin Hartley, has a connection with Ritchson, as he assumed the role of Aquaman when the character transitioned from “Smallville”.
The Finder
In the realm of investigative dramas, some shows stand out by offering a fresh perspective. One such example is “The Finder,” which premiered in 2012 and was spun off from “Bones” via a special episode known as a backdoor pilot. Despite its seemingly straightforward title, it’s actually adapted from a series of books titled “The Locator.” Yes, you read that correctly!
“The Finder,” however, is more than just your typical procedural. It infuses a touch of humor into its storyline, making it an engaging watch.
The series features Geoff Stults portraying Walter Sherman, a retired Army Major who sustained a traumatic brain injury in combat, resulting in some unusual quirks. Once back home, Sherman is committed to assisting those in distress, focusing on investigating missing persons cases. In his initial investigation of a missing father, he encounters Leo Knox, a former lawyer portrayed by Michael Clarke Duncan. The two quickly bond and collaborate, turning their informal partnership into a more formal operation. Together, they tackle missing persons cases that have gone unresolved or been overlooked by the police and FBI.
Despite receiving outstanding feedback from viewers, regrettably, “The Finder” failed to secure the viewership it merited and was abruptly terminated following only a single season.
Magnum PI (2018)
Just like “Walker” and “MacGyver,” the 2018 rendition of “Magnum PI” revives an old TV show. The original, featuring Tom Selleck (who had to decline the role of the legendary whip-wielding artifact seeker Indiana Jones due to his dedication to the series), was one of the most popular shows in the 1980s. Although the reboot doesn’t quite reach its predecessor’s level of success, it does a commendable job of preserving its essence.
In this new iteration, “Magnum PI” introduces Jay Hernandez as Thomas Magnum, a former Navy SEAL living in the Robin’s Nest, the guest house of the wealthy and reclusive novelist Robin Masters. Though Masters remains off-screen, Magnum works for him as a security consultant, providing inspiration for his latest novels. Magnum often finds himself tackling intriguing cases that land on his desk, which may include searching for missing individuals, rescuing someone from dangerous criminal situations, or thwarting nefarious terrorists.
As a gaming enthusiast, I’d say if you’re a fan of Justin Hartley’s series, you’ll find a liking in Hernandez’s portrayal of Thomas Magnum – a swaggering, charismatic character who can be a bit elusive at times. And to sweeten the deal, this series actually crossed paths with the MacGyver reboot, both being creations of producer Peter M. Lenkov.
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2025-07-04 13:32