Justin Hartley shifts gears in new drama “Tracker”
Actor Justin Hartley, known for his role as Kevin Pearson on “This Is Us,” has taken on a drastically different character in the new CBS action-packed drama series “Tracker.” Hartley stars as Colter Shaw, a rugged survivalist who traverses the country to locate missing people and collect rewards.
Hartley said he had to completely depart from Pearson to prevent any overlap between the characters.
“I didn’t want Kevin leaking out into what I was doing for Colter. So I actually made a list of the two of them. And it turns out they have nothing in common,” he told “CBS Mornings.”
Hartley found that the physical demands of the role of Colter contrast with the emotional demands of his previous network stint.
“I like the physicality. It’s fun. It’s something different,” he said of the new role, noting that his “tear ducts got a workout on ‘This Is Us.'”
The series also stars Hartley’s real-life wife, Sofia Pernas, adding a personal touch to their on-screen interactions.
Hartley discussed the dynamics of working closely with someone he loves, describing it as both a professional advantage and a personal joy.
“It makes it so easy. She’s so good and she’s lovely to stare at and she’s so good. She’s so talented and anytime you get a chance to work with a talented actor, they just lift your performance. It’s unbelievable. You’re basically just along for the ride,” said Hartley.
Reflecting on his dual role as actor and executive producer, Hartley said his collaborative effort with Ken Olin, whom he previously worked on “This Is Us,” made the transition easy.
“It’s been a wonderful partnership,” he said. And it’s a partnership that has helped boost “Tracker” to being the No. 1 new series on CBS.
“Tracker” delves into Colter Shaw’s backstory and family toward the season’s end. Hartley hinted at how a rich narrative is unfolding.
“The truth comes out,” he said.
Actor Justin Hartley, renowned for his portrayal of Kevin Pearson in the emotionally-charged drama “This Is Us,” embarks on a thrilling new venture in the action-packed CBS series “Tracker.” Stepping into the shoes of Colter Shaw, a rugged survivalist with a penchant for locating missing persons, Hartley undergoes a dramatic transformation to embody the complexities of his latest character.
In an interview with “CBS Mornings,” Hartley reveals the meticulous process of delineating between Kevin and Colter. “I didn’t want Kevin leaking out into what I was doing for Colter. So I actually made a list of the two of them. And it turns out they have nothing in common,” he shares, underscoring the necessity of distinctiveness in his portrayal.
Embracing the physical challenges of the role, Hartley finds solace in the departure from the emotional depths of “This Is Us.” “I like the physicality. It’s fun. It’s something different,” he muses, highlighting the stark contrast between the tear-jerking moments of his previous role and the adrenaline-fueled action of “Tracker.”
Adding a personal dimension to the series, Hartley’s real-life wife, Sofia Pernas, joins the cast, lending authenticity to their on-screen chemistry. Reflecting on their collaboration, Hartley acknowledges the professional advantage and personal joy of working alongside someone he loves. “It makes it so easy. She’s so good and she’s lovely to stare at and she’s so good,” he enthuses, praising Pernas’ talent and the enriching experience of sharing the screen with her.
Navigating his dual role as actor and executive producer, Hartley credits his partnership with Ken Olin, with whom he previously collaborated on “This Is Us,” for the seamless transition into “Tracker.” “It’s been a wonderful partnership,” he remarks, acknowledging the collective effort that has propelled the series to the forefront of CBS’s lineup.
As “Tracker” delves deeper into Colter Shaw’s backstory and familial dynamics, Hartley teases the unfolding of a rich narrative tapestry. “The truth comes out,” he hints, promising viewers an enthralling exploration of Shaw’s journey and the revelations that lie ahead.
In summary, Hartley’s portrayal of Colter Shaw in “Tracker” represents a bold departure from his previous roles, characterized by physicality, intrigue, and a compelling narrative arc that captivates audiences and solidifies the series as a standout success on CBS.
