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Justin Hartley Attributes Success of ‘Tracker’ to Unapologetic Masculinity
Actor Justin Hartley believes his series, ‘Tracker’, has resonated with audiences primarily due to its lead character’s comfort with masculinity. In a recent interview, Hartley emphasized the importance of creating a character who does not shy away from his masculine identity.
Character Development and Masculinity
Hartley portrays Colter Shaw, a survivalist dedicated to locating missing individuals. This character embodies a modern interpretation of masculinity that stands out in today’s media landscape. Hartley stated, “One of the things I really love about Colter is that he doesn’t apologize for his masculinity.” His comments highlight a growing demand for authentic male representations in popular culture.
An Evolving Portrait of Manhood
The success of ‘Tracker’ can largely be attributed to its portrayal of manhood. Hartley pointed out that audiences are increasingly looking for relatable male figures. He explained, “You’re asking yourself, ‘What kind of people do I want to hang out with?” There is a desire for male characters who are not only strong but also emotionally evolved.
Addressing Toxic Masculinity
While discussions about toxic masculinity have gained traction in society, Hartley contends that characters like Colter offer an alternative narrative. During the interview, he expressed that his character’s journey involves tackling the complexity of human behavior rather than adhering to traditional stereotypes. He articulated, “I think we’ve crafted a character that is so emotionally evolved, and he really does want to get to the root of why people do things.”
Current Season and Future Prospects
‘Tracker’ is currently in its second season, and a third season is reportedly in development. This continued commitment to the series underscores its popularity and the audience’s appetite for more storytelling centered around man’s complexities.
Balancing Strength with Emotion
Hartley believes that the character’s appeal lies in how Shaw balances strength with emotional depth. He said, “He’s a man through and through. And that doesn’t mean you have to be the loudest person in the room and know every single thing and throw tables around and scream and shout and yell.” Instead, Shaw communicates, understands people, and connects deeply. This nuanced representation of masculinity has garnered appreciation from viewers.
A Throwback to Procedurals
The show’s executive producer, Ken Olin, along with Hartley, aimed to recreate a procedural format that emphasizes character growth over time. Hartley shared, “We wanted a new spin on a procedural, meaning our character would evolve over time.” This approach has intrigued many viewers, as they are offered a story that progresses naturally rather than a static narrative. He noted, “We were hopeful people would like it. People ended up loving it. I think there’s a huge appetite for this kind of show.”
Hartley’s Career Overview
Justin Hartley is widely recognized for his diverse roles across television, including celebrated performances in hit series such as ‘This Is Us’, ‘Passions’, ‘Smallville’, and ‘The Young and the Restless’. His ability to navigate complex characters enhances his standing as a versatile actor dedicated to authentic portrayals on screen.
Looking Ahead
The journey of ‘Tracker’ reflects a larger conversation about masculinity in media. As audiences increasingly seek depth and relatability in characters, Hartley’s insights into his role reveal the potential for future stories that challenge conventional portrayals. With ongoing support from fans and continuing character development, ‘Tracker’ is poised to maintain its relevance and impact in the television landscape.
In a world where representations of gender continue to evolve, shows like ‘Tracker’ offer both entertainment and a platform for meaningful discussions surrounding masculinity. Hartley’s commitment to his role may very well contribute to a new narrative that celebrates emotional intelligence alongside traditional strength.
