In 2024, CBS launched a new show called Tracker, which became a hit among viewers. It stars Justin Hartley, who many know from shows like This Is Us and Smallville. He plays Colter Shaw, a man who helps people find things or loved ones who have gone missing, but he charges for his services.
Hartley not only plays the lead role but also works as an executive producer on the show. Tracker isn’t your typical crime show, and it doesn’t follow the usual storyline of a lone hero solving crimes in one city. Instead, each episode takes Colter to different places, where he faces new problems and helps solve them.
The series uses a mixture of standalone plots and ongoing mystery. While each episode has its own case to solve, there are hints throughout that point to a larger story, especially about Colter’s family. As fans eagerly await the arrival of Season 2, it’s a good time to reflect on the key moments of Season 1 and recall where Colter’s story left off.
Colter Shaw’s Search for Truth in Tracker Season 1
From the very beginning of the show, we learn that Colter Shaw is a man with a mission. Actually, he has many missions, because he’s always helping people find things or loved ones that have gone missing. He often says, “We’re all looking for something,” which shows just how dedicated he is to getting the job done.
Colter makes it clear that he won’t stop until his clients get the answers they need. While most of Colter’s cases are standalone, meaning each episode has its own story, there is a larger mystery running in the background of the show, which involves his own family.
Colter’s reasons for helping others aren’t just about money—there’s something deeper going on. Over time, we discover that Colter is driven by events from his past.
When Colter was a teenager, his father, Ashton Shaw, moved their family off the grid. Ashton believed that the government was conspiring against them and took extreme measures to protect his family. They lived in isolation, away from the rest of society.
One day, during a thunderstorm, Ashton died unexpectedly, leaving his family in shock. Looking back on it, Colter thought his father might have lost his grip on reality.
He also believed that his older brother, Russell, might have been responsible for their father’s death. This tragedy left a deep impact on Colter and his siblings, and it’s a key part of why Colter is so focused on solving other people’s problems.
Early in the series, we see that Russell, who hasn’t spoken to Colter in years, tries to reach out. He calls Colter several times, but Colter doesn’t answer. Colter’s mother, Mary Dove Shaw, tells him to ignore his brother and stay away from him.
She had told him to leave Russell behind about 20 years ago, and Colter seemed fine with following that advice—at least for a while. But things begin to change when Colter’s sister, Dory, encourages him to let Russell back into his life. Dory believes that it’s time for the family to reconnect and that Russell has something important to share.
When Colter finally decides to meet with Russell, he learns that Russell didn’t kill their father after all. Russell reveals that many things were going on during their childhood that neither of them fully understood at the time. Dory also seems to have her own theories about what happened.
In one episode, “Beyond the Campus Walls,” Dory suggests that their father’s obsession with the government may not have been as far-fetched as it seemed. She hints that there was more to the story and that their father’s death might not have been as simple as they thought. These conversations leave Colter wondering who is telling the truth and who might be hiding something.
In the season finale, “The Storm,” Colter learns a shocking truth from a family friend, Lizzie Hawking. She tells him that his mother had been having an affair with her father. This revelation changes everything for Colter and offers a possible explanation for Ashton Shaw’s sudden death.
Still from Tracker (Credit: Paramount+)
However, the story doesn’t end there. Russell’s involvement with some questionable military figures raises even more questions. Could Ashton’s death have been linked to something much bigger than just a family affair?
As the season wraps up, we are left with more questions than answers. But one thing is clear: Colter’s family history is far more complicated than he ever realized. With Russell and Dory set to return in Season 2, it seems likely that we will see more family reunions and perhaps more secrets coming to light.
Colter’s Struggles With Keeping His Life Separate
One of the things that makes Colter Shaw such an interesting character is how he manages to keep his personal and professional lives separate. Even though he works closely with a group of co-workers, including Teddi Bruin, Velma Bruin, Bobby Exley, and Reenie Greene, Colter doesn’t share much about his family or his past with them.
He has built walls around himself and prefers to keep others at a distance. This can make him seem mysterious, but it also shows how deeply affected he is by his past.
Reenie’s growing involvement with Colter may play a significant role in the next season, especially as Colter continues to deal with his complicated family dynamics.
Colter Shaw and Reenie Greene’s Relationship: Will It Turn Romantic?
From the early episodes of Tracker, there is a noticeable connection between Colter Shaw and Reenie Greene. While the show hasn’t officially made them a romantic couple yet, there are plenty of moments that suggest they have feelings for each other.
They share longing looks, exchange witty remarks, and Colter often puts himself in danger to protect Reenie. He’s willing to go the extra mile for her, and not just because it’s part of his job.
Reenie’s role in the show has grown significantly throughout the first season. As the series’ main female lead, Reenie is involved in many of the key episodes.
Fiona Rene, who plays Reenie, has great on-screen chemistry with Justin Hartley, and the show’s creators seem to be holding off on fully developing their relationship until the right moment. Fans are hopeful that we’ll see more of their dynamic in Season 2, perhaps with their relationship taking a more serious turn.
But there is an in-universe reason why Colter and Reenie haven’t started a romance yet: Colter has a hard time with commitment. He doesn’t like being tied down and prefers to live a life of independence. His job requires him to constantly be on the move, and his lifestyle reflects his need for freedom.
He lives in a camper, and this mobile lifestyle symbolizes his internal need for isolation. He doesn’t let people in easily, not even his own family.
One scene in particular highlights Colter’s reluctance to stay in one place. After helping Bobby Exley’s friend in the episode “Chicago,” Bobby offers to buy Colter and Reenie lunch. Rather than sticking around for a simple meal, Colter quickly leaves for Sioux Falls.
This pattern of leaving without saying goodbye happens several times throughout the season. Colter has a habit of making sudden exits, which shows how uncomfortable he is with forming deep connections. Even with his handlers, Teddi and Velma Bruin, Colter keeps some emotional distance.
Reenie has her work cut out for her if she wants to break down Colter’s walls. But she’s not the only potential love interest in Colter’s life.
Billie Matalon: Another Love Interest for Colter Shaw?
While Tracker has a relatively small main cast, one guest character made a big impression on fans: Billie Matalon, played by Sofia Pernas. Billie is another reward-seeker, much like Colter. She first appears in the episode “Lexington,” but it’s clear that she and Colter have a history.
They worked together on a job in Miami, but things didn’t end well. Billie betrays Colter during that job, which has created some tension between them.
Despite the betrayal, Billie and Colter have undeniable chemistry. Their interactions are filled with sparks, and Billie could serve as a romantic foil to Reenie. This is made even more interesting by the fact that Sofia Pernas, who plays Billie, is Justin Hartley’s real-life wife.
The two actors met while working together on The Young and the Restless and eventually got married. Their real-life connection adds an extra layer of intrigue to their on-screen relationship.
It will be interesting to see how the show balances Colter’s potential relationships with Reenie and Billie in Season 2. Will Colter finally open up to Reenie, or will Billie’s reappearance cause more complications in his personal life? Either way, fans are eager to see how these dynamics play out in future episodes.
What to Expect in Tracker Season 2
As Season 2 of Tracker approaches, fans are excited to see what’s next for Colter Shaw. The first season ended with many unanswered questions, especially about Colter’s family. But Tracker is known for its episodic nature, where each installment features a standalone plot.
Still from Tracker (Credit: Paramount+)
This structure allows the show to focus on different cases each week, which keeps the storytelling fresh and exciting. However, it can also push the larger story arcs, like Colter’s family mystery, to the background.
Some standout episodes from Season 1 include “Missoula,” which centers on a dangerous cult, “Aurora,” a horror-themed missing person case, and “Into the Wild,” which features the talented Peter Stormare. These episodes are examples of Tracker’s ability to balance intriguing standalone cases with the overarching mystery surrounding Colter’s past.
As for Season 2, we know that there will be some changes to the team. Robin Weigert, who played Teddi Bruin, won’t be returning for the new season. Her character’s departure means that Reenie Greene will likely take on a more prominent role within Colter’s team.
Reenie, who was previously Colter’s go-to lawyer, will now be working closely with Velma Bruin on a new business venture. This new job will not only help Colter financially but will also allow him to continue helping people who need skills that go beyond the law.
In the upcoming season, Colter’s first case will involve searching for a missing mother who has ties to organized crime in Arkansas. This storyline is expected to feature both Russell Shaw and Billie Matalon, who will return in the first few episodes.
As Colter continues to tackle new challenges, fans are eager to see how the remaining family secrets will be revealed and what new twists await him in Season 2.
The Terrifier series is a group of horror movies that has gained a lot of attention and popularity. So far, there are three full-length films in this series: Terrifier (2016), Terrifier 2 (2022), and Terrifier 3 (2024). However, some people believe that the series really started with two short films and one anthology movie.
The short films are The 9th Circle (2008) and Terrifier (2011). The anthology movie is All Hallow’s Eve (2013). All of these films were written and directed by Damien Leone. He has also directed all three of the main Terrifier movies. Leone has kept control over the creative direction of the franchise, and he has shown growth as a filmmaker in each movie.
The main character in the Terrifier series is Art the Clown. Art is a villain who never speaks but is still very engaging and interesting to watch.
He enjoys what he does, which is brutally tormenting his victims and killing them, usually slowly and painfully. Art the Clown has supernatural abilities that make him very difficult to beat, which adds to the tension and horror of the films.
The Terrifier movies are intense, cruel, and often uncomfortable to watch. However, many people find them oddly admirable because of their unique approach to horror.
There is an element of very dark comedy in the series, but there is also genuine shock value due to the extreme violence and the realistic-looking gore effects. The films do not hold back when it comes to showing horror, and this makes them stand out in the genre.
As the series has developed, it has begun to focus more on a full story that connects the films. This change has made the Terrifier movies more compelling and dramatic. When anything can happen, it raises the stakes, making the audience feel genuinely invested in the characters and their fates.
The mythology of the series is also interesting, and Art the Clown serves as a strong lead antagonist. His past remains mysterious, which adds another layer of intrigue to the films.
Even though the Terrifier series now consists of three movies, more films will likely be made in the future. This gives fans the chance to show more about Art the Clown and the world he inhabits. With the release of Terrifier 3, it is possible to look back and assess the three movies so far. Discussing these films shows how much the series has improved over time and highlights why it is one of the best ongoing horror franchises today.
3. Terrifier (2016)
Starring: David Howard Thornton, Jenna Kanell, Samantha Scaffidi
The first feature-length movie, Terrifier (2016), has some good qualities, but it is the roughest of the three films. The enjoyable parts are balanced with some less-than-great aspects. One of the highlights of this movie is that it introduces Art the Clown as a fantastic villain.
Although Art had appeared in the earlier short films and All Hallow’s Eve, this film is the first time he is played by David Howard Thornton. Thornton has made this role his own, bringing a unique energy to the character. However, it is important to give credit to the original actor, Mike Giannelli, who helped create Art.
In Terrifier, Thornton is the only actor who really stands out. Other characters do not have much to work with in terms of development or screen time. The movie is a very simple slasher film that runs for only 85 minutes. While the sequels are longer, they do not feel as long as the first film.
Still from Terrifier 3 (Credit: Cineverse)
Since Terrifier serves as an introduction to Art the Clown, it lacks a strong narrative. The story follows Art as he goes on a rampage on Halloween night, killing a group of characters. However, the film makes it clear that Art enjoys his work and takes his time with his victims. There is a lot of bloodshed, and Art fits well with the tradition of creepy clowns in cinema.
If you are just looking for a movie with a creepy clown and lots of gore, you might enjoy Terrifier. However, if you want a deeper story or character development, you may find it tedious. It is still an important film in the full series and works as a sort of proof-of-concept or prologue to the other movies.
2. Terrifier 2 (2022)
Starring: David Howard Thornton, Lauren LaVera, Elliott Fullam
Terrifier 2 (2022) makes a big jump in quality from the first movie. It has a proper story and shows that the franchise can be more than just a niche horror series.
Some might even say that if Anakin Skywalker were to watch Terrifier 2, he would declare, “This is where the fun begins.” He would be correct because the film improves on many aspects from the first movie.
While Terrifier was known for its gore, Terrifier 2 takes things to another level. It is even more violent and intense, with some moments that are hard to watch. Although there is more focus on the characters and the story in this film, the violence is still relentless.
The characters, while not deeply developed, feel more like real people. This adds an extra layer of emotional impact to their suffering and makes the audience feel for them.
Art the Clown remains an impressive antagonist in Terrifier 2. The movie also introduces a memorable heroine named Sienna Shaw, played by Lauren LaVera. Sienna has friends and family who become targets for Art. She discovers that she might have the ability to stop him before he can kill everyone she cares about.
The film starts to develop the lore of the series. It introduces new elements to the mythology, adding depth to the story. Some aspects of the film feel almost fantastical, especially regarding Sienna’s character and Art’s supernatural abilities.
At 138 minutes long, Terrifier 2 is quite lengthy, and some side characters may feel a bit shallow. However, the film features a great villain, a strong heroine, and a lot of tension. It also contains some of the most shocking violence you will see in a slasher film.
Terrifier 2 manages to combine the right ingredients to create a satisfying horror experience. It improves on the weaknesses of the first film while delivering a more complete and engaging story.
1. Terrifier 3 (2024)
Starring: David Howard Thornton, Lauren LaVera, Daniel Roebuck
Following the success of Terrifier 2, expectations were high for Terrifier 3 (2024). This film aims to meet or even exceed the quality of its predecessor, and it almost succeeds. Both Terrifier 2 and Terrifier 3 share similar strengths and flaws, but Terrifier 3 is better-paced and feels tighter.
At 125 minutes long, Terrifier 3 is still a long movie by slasher standards, but it manages to keep the audience engaged throughout. The film develops its story with purpose and builds suspense effectively.
The movie opens with a lot of savagery and introduces a returning character from the original Terrifier, Victoria Heyes, who plays a key role in this film. Sienna and her brother also return, along with a few new characters that add depth to the story.
Still from Terrifier 3 (Credit: Cineverse)
Having returning characters makes the conflict more meaningful. The audience can invest in their fates, and this adds to the emotional weight of the film.
The victims in Terrifier 3 feel more sympathetic than ever, and the deaths are more painful to witness. This film manages to upgrade the horror, making it even more intense than the previous installments.
In addition to its horror elements, Terrifier 3 is also surprisingly effective as a Christmas movie. It showcases some of the most extreme violence ever seen in a holiday film, which might be shocking to some viewers. The level of brutality in this movie is quite surprising, and the horror is not just a backdrop but plays a central role in the story.
Terrifier 3 offers some of the most thrilling and suspenseful scenes seen in a horror film this year. The mix of gut-wrenching moments and spectacular horror makes it stand out. If the series continues with a Terrifier 4, fans can expect it to be even better. The growth of the franchise suggests that it could become a classic in the horror genre.
The Evolution of Art the Clown
Art the Clown is one of the most memorable villains in recent horror cinema. His character has evolved throughout the series, becoming a significant figure in the horror community.
In the first film, Terrifier, Art is introduced as a sadistic killer who delights in tormenting his victims. He has a unique style, often using clown props and tricks to create fear.
His character is terrifying not just because of his actions, but also because of his unsettling demeanor. He never speaks, which adds to his mystery and makes him even more frightening.
As the series progresses, Art becomes more complex. In Terrifier 2, we see a glimpse of his backstory and the mythology surrounding him. This development gives viewers more insight into who Art is and why he behaves the way he does. While he is still a brutal killer, these new elements add depth to his character, making him more than just a simple villain.
By the time we reach Terrifier 3, Art has become a horror icon. His blend of charm and menace attracts audiences, and he has solidified his place in the pantheon of horror villains. This growth shows how well Damien Leone has crafted the character, making him not only terrifying but also memorable.
The Impact of the Terrifier Series
The Terrifier series has made a significant impact on the horror genre. It stands out for its unique blend of extreme violence, dark humor, and memorable characters.
One of the reasons the series has resonated with audiences is its commitment to horror. The films do not shy away from showing brutality. They embrace the genre’s roots, delivering shocking moments that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This willingness to push boundaries has attracted a dedicated fanbase.
Moreover, the Terrifier movies have sparked discussions about horror filmmaking. They challenge traditional narratives and show what it means to create horror in modern cinema. The series has shown that there is a place for extreme horror, and it has inspired other filmmakers to show similar themes.
Still from Terrifier 3 (Credit: Cineverse)
The character of Art the Clown has also played a crucial role in the series’ success. He has become a symbol of modern horror, representing the genre’s ability to evolve and adapt. As Art gains more recognition, the franchise continues to grow, leading to more potential stories and films in the future.
Conclusion
The Terrifier series is a remarkable journey through the world of horror. It started with a few short films and has grown into a full-fledged franchise with three feature-length films. Each movie showcases the evolution of the characters, especially Art the Clown, and highlights Damien Leone’s growth as a filmmaker.
With its unique blend of violence, dark humor, and compelling characters, the series has left a mark on the horror genre.
As we look forward to future installments, the Terrifier series promises to continue thrilling and shocking audiences. It has become one of the greatest ongoing horror franchises, and its impact will likely be felt for years to come.
