Justin Hartley left fans laughing and possibly concerned during his appearance on The Tonight Show when he joked that his character Colter on Tracker might meet his end in the Season 3 finale — by tracking down Abraham Lincoln in heaven.
The Funny Finale Tease
During the May 5 episode of The Tonight Show, host Jimmy Fallon had Hartley read pre-written answers to interview questions, a setup that led to some unexpected humor. When asked about the Season 3 finale, Hartley couldn read a script that imagined his character dying and arriving in the afterlife. The scenario involved angels asking for help because Abraham Lincoln was missing, only to discover the former president at a Jamba Juice. ‘It was unbelievable,’ Hartley laughed, clearly amused by the absurdity of the situation.
While the finale likely won’t actually show Colter in a near-death situation, Hartley has previously hinted that such a storyline isn’t off the table. His comments come as Tracker continues to build tension and stakes for its characters, keeping viewers on edge about the fate of its protagonist.
Keeping the Character Mortal and the Stakes High
Hartley emphasized the importance of maintaining Colter’s humanity during a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter. ‘It’s important to keep upping the stakes,’ he said. ‘I like being Colter as a hero, finding people and all that. I also really like seeing him in a suspenseful thriller and a dangerous situation.’ He added, ‘I don’t want our audience to forget that this man is mortal, he’s not a superhero. He can die! The things he is doing are very very dangerous.’
This approach aligns with the show’s foundation. Based on Jeffery Deaver’s novel The Never Game, Tracker follows Colter as he travels across the country assisting those in distress while uncovering deeper mysteries. The series has gained a loyal following for blending action, mystery, and emotional depth, with Hartley’s performance at its core.
The Show’s Success and Future
Since its debut, Tracker has been a hit for CBS, combining procedural elements with character-driven storytelling. The series has been renewed for a fourth season, ensuring that Colter’s adventures will continue. However, Hartley’s playful remarks about the finale suggest that the show is not afraid to push boundaries and challenge its characters in unexpected ways.
The show’s success is also a testament to its ability to balance entertainment with genuine emotional stakes. By keeping Colter’s mortality front and center, the series ensures that every case feels urgent and every decision carries weight. This approach has resonated with audiences, making Tracker a standout in the current television landscape.
Key Points from Hartley’s Interview
- Hartley joked about his character dying and tracking Abraham Lincoln in heaven during the Season 3 finale.
- He emphasized that Colter is mortal and not a superhero, which keeps the storylines intense.
- The show is based on Jeffery Deaver’s novel The Never Game.









