CBS's 'Tracker' draws major inspiration from Jeffery Deaver's novel 'The Never Game'

Whether you're a seasoned bookworm or a dedicated TV viewer, 'Tracker' promises a thrilling ride
Justin Hartley in a still from the show 'Tracker' (2024)
Justin Hartley in a still from the show 'Tracker' (2024)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Calling all bookworms and TV enthusiasts! Are you curious about the origins of CBS's thrilling drama 'Tracker' starring Justin Hartley? Wondering if the show draws inspiration from the pages of a captivating novel?

The answer is yes! 'Tracker' is indeed based on a book, but there's a bit more to the story than you might expect.

So, whether you're a seasoned bookworm or a dedicated TV viewer, 'Tracker' promises a thrilling ride with its blend of literary inspiration and creative adaptation.

While 'Tracker' released on Sunday, February 11, Mark your calendars, and let's delve into the literary background of this suspenseful series.

CBS's 'Tracker' based on Jeffery Deaver's book was originally titled 'The Never Game'

While the series title might not instantly hint at its literary connection, 'Tracker' actually draws heavily from Jeffery Deaver's gripping novel, 'The Never Game.'

This first book in the 'Colter Shaw' series introduces the main character, a resourceful tracker with a unique ability to sense deception. Indeed, when Justin Hartley's most recent television endeavor was initially revealed, it carried the original title of 'The Never Game,' not 'Tracker.'

The show takes creative liberties and builds upon the foundation laid in 'The Never Game,' incorporating new characters and storylines while retaining the core essence of Deaver's thrilling narrative.

However, 'Tracker' isn't a direct page-to-screen adaptation. The showrunners took creative liberties, expanding upon the foundation laid in 'The Never Game' and building a universe with its own set of characters and storylines.

While Shaw remains the central figure, some supporting characters from the book are absent, and new individuals are introduced to flesh out the narrative.

Additionally, the show explores broader themes beyond the specific case presented in 'The Never Game,' allowing for longer-arc storytelling and character development.

Is 'Tracker' the first Jeffery Deaver adaptation?

'Tracker' isn't Deaver's first brush with Hollywood fame. Several of his novels have been adapted for the screen, including the Lincoln Rhyme series starring Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington.

So, while 'Tracker' marks the first adaptation of the 'Colter Shaw' series specifically, Deaver's thrilling worlds have already captivated audiences through various film and television projects.

'Tracker' is currently streaming on CBS.

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

One of the new characters joining Season 2 may be connected to Andrea's arc
2026-11-02T03:14:22.000Z
Titus Welliver and Tom Bernardo address Harry Bosch’s future ahead of the MGM+ prequel.
2026-10-31T18:58:21.000Z
‘It: Welcome to Derry’ uncovers the dagger’s origins and a Stephen King connection in its surprise Halloween special.
2026-10-31T15:59:16.000Z
'Beyond The Gates' received 13 nominations at the Daytime Emmys in its first year
2026-10-31T10:54:38.000Z
Jay Gatsby gets a new career while the familiar Long Island characters enter a modern crime-solving world
2026-10-31T10:27:21.000Z
'Avatar: Seven Havens' released its first season finale named 'The Root of Chakra' on October 30
2026-10-31T09:02:29.000Z
'General Hospital' wins its sixth consecutive 'Outstanding Drama Series' award at Daytime Emmys
2026-10-31T07:32:44.000Z
The Apple TV series relocates a Swedish crime saga to rural Pennsylvania and keeps its prisoner underground
2026-10-31T07:04:20.000Z
Bertha Russell and her family face shifting social dynamics, new rivalries, and personal challenges in the next chapter
2026-10-31T06:09:14.000Z
'Fire Country' introduces a new love interest for CJ in its latest episode
2026-10-31T05:46:21.000Z