AceShowbiz - Justin Hartley's hit CBS drama Tracker is undergoing significant cast changes as it heads into its third season, with Chris Lee being promoted to series regular status. According to Deadline, Lee, who portrays Randy, initially appeared in season 2 as Bobby’s cousin before his role expanded substantially.

The show, which debuted in February 2024, quickly found success, breaking ratings records for CBS. Viewers have since followed the fictional survivalist Colter, played by Justin Hartley, as he travels across the United States solving various missing persons cases.

As the central character receives assistance, the ensemble cast has grown to include notable characters such as handlers Teddi (played by Robin Weigert), Velma, the hacker Bobby (Eric Graise), and attorney Reenie. However, the series has also experienced several departures. Teddi’s character was written off early in season 2, with Velma explaining that they needed to take some distance. Velma then started collaborating with Reenie.

Season 3 arrives after the show faced the exit of multiple cast members, including Eric Graise and another actor, McEnany, who are confirmed not to return "at least for now." Fans noticed Graise’s absence in six episodes during season 2, sparking some backlash as Randy was introduced to fill the gap and assist Colter.

Justin Hartley, the show's lead and executive producer, has been central to Tracker's appeal since its premiere.

Executive producer Elwood Reid spoke exclusively to Us Weekly in May 2025 about the show’s evolution, emphasizing that the team wants to avoid complacency. “I do think it’s evolving. If I can’t evolve those characters — Randy, Reenie, or Bobby — the show risks becoming formulaic,” Reid explained. He highlighted the importance of developing the characters beyond simple plot devices who just “pick up the phone” with answers.

Reid elaborated that the show's structure involves Colter arriving in a new location each week to tackle a fresh case, but the dynamics of how he solves these cases and interacts with supporting characters remain flexible. “Meeting the quirky local characters is something we're eager to explore more as the season progresses,” he added, noting that this approach allows Hartley to showcase his versatility with a strong guest cast.

The decision to shake up the cast and storylines in season 3 was defended by Reid as necessary to maintain the show’s freshness. “Justin has to carry so much of the show, so I don’t want the other characters to be just phone-a-friend options when he’s in trouble. The challenge has been to build meaningful stories around these characters,” he shared.

Despite the cast changes, Reid confirmed that characters Reenie and Randy will remain integral to the show’s world. He teased upcoming developments where Reenie grapples with guilt from a season 2 case and brings Randy into her orbit as she works to expand her law office. This storyline is expected to deepen their on-screen relationship and introduce new characters to the series.

Reid also emphasized a tonal balance for season 3, seeking to inject some lightness to offset the often dark and intense nature of Colter’s work. “Sometimes Colter deals with really heavy, life-or-death situations, so it’s important to find moments of relief,” he said.

Tracker continues to air on CBS Sundays at 9 p.m. ET, with episodes available for streaming on Paramount+ the following day.