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

Prime Video casts the lead stars for its next young adult series, ‘Boys of Tommen,’ adapting Chloe Walsh’s bestselling romance novels.
15 minutes ago
A prominent 'The Boys' star reflects on his complicated relationship with Homelander ahead of ‘The Boys’ finale.
35 minutes ago
‘The Oval’ Season 7 teaser hints at political chaos, shocking revelations, and a dangerous new crisis inside the White House.
3 hours ago
‘Rick and Morty’ Season 9 received an unexpected release boost in a major update, and it's releasing sooner than we think.
5 hours ago
The crime drama series premiered its nine episodes on Peacock on May 7, after which showrunner spoke about 'M.I.A' next seasons.
8 hours ago
Season 1 of 'Of Campus' was released on May 13 on Amazon Prime Video, and now we already have a big update for Season 2.
9 hours ago
'Outlander' ended after eight seasons, bringing the time-traveling love saga between Claire and Jamie to an emotional end
12 hours ago
Will Ferrell's comedy series is set to premiere on the platform on July 16, 2026
14 hours ago
‘SVU’ boss Michele Fazekas reveals where Benson and Fin stand after the Season 27 finale raised major questions about retirement
15 hours ago
The show's eighth season began production in April in Vancouver and will conclude in August
16 hours ago