CBS Series ‘Tracker’ Loses Underrated Character: Here’s Why
CBS’s acclaimed series Tracker has garnered significant attention, presenting a blend of action and emotional depth. This drama, adapted from Jeffery Deaver’s novel The Never Game, centers on Colter Shaw, portrayed by Justin Hartley. Colter is a skilled survivalist and “rewardist” who travels the nation solving mysteries and locating missing persons for a fee. A key part of his team was Velma Bruin, played by Abby McEnany, who provided logistical support to Colter’s often chaotic endeavors.
Character Departures from Tracker
With the launch of Tracker’s third season in October 2025, viewers were surprised by the departures of both McEnany and Eric Graise (Bobby Exley). Their exits were confirmed during the summer by sources including TVLine and Deadline, catching fans off guard, especially after Velma had previously faced the loss of her wife, Teddi (Robin Weigert), in Season 1.
Reasons Behind McEnany’s Exit
While CBS has not provided a specific reason for McEnany’s departure, insights from showrunner Elwood Reid suggest it was a creative decision. Reid indicated the writing team aimed to focus more closely on Colter’s character, avoiding a repetitive “phone-a-friend” formula. Justin Hartley also advocated for a streamlined approach, questioning the necessity of calling upon specific characters for every situation.
According to Reid, this narrative shift allows Fiona Rene’s character, Reenie Green, to assume a more prominent role, contributing to richer storytelling beyond Colter’s immediate world. Consequently, Velma and Bobby’s characters, though beloved, were phased out to align with this new direction.
Explaining Velma’s Absence
The Season 3 premiere titled “The Process” addresses the absence of these characters early on. Reenie informs new recruit Randy that Velma is “trying to save her marriage” by visiting Teddi. This statement provides a poignant closure for Velma, respecting her character arc without resorting to melodrama. Bobby’s departure is attributed to a career advancement as he takes on a lucrative role at a startup.
Future Possibilities for Velma
Although Velma’s exit signifies a shift, the door remains open for her return. Reid mentioned in a September 2025 interview that while there are no immediate plans for McEnany’s comeback, he remains optimistic about future developments. The show thrives on open endings and evolving narratives, so Velma’s story could intertwine with Colter’s expanding circle or Reenie’s growing legal practice.
Tracker’s Continued Success
Despite recent cast changes, Tracker maintains its status as one of CBS’s top-rated dramas, consistently ranking in the Top 5 among both linear and streaming audiences. The show’s unique combination of action, mystery, and emotional storytelling fosters its appeal, reminiscent of earlier hits like Person of Interest and The Mentalist.
In the current season, Colter and his brother, Russ (Jensen Ackles), are navigating new cases while grappling with the emotional aftermath of their father’s death. Fans are reassured that Velma’s absence stems from a shift in storytelling rather than behind-the-scenes issues, marking a significant transformation for the series.
