In episode 3 of Tracker season 2, titled “Bloodlines,” Billie Matalon makes a long-awaited return—and with it, a clear reminder of why she and Colter Shaw are better apart. While fans may appreciate the fiery chemistry between Sofia Pernas and Justin Hartley (who happen to be married in real life), their characters’ emotional and professional disconnect makes them one of Tracker's most compelling mismatches.
After first appearing in season 1, episode 6, as a rival tracker with a shared history with Colter, Billie resurfaces in season 2 with a case that brings the two back together. The reunion is anything but romantic, underscoring the fundamental differences between them and why they just don’t work as a couple.
Billie Brings a Case—and a Complication
“Bloodlines” opens with Billie contacting Colter for help. A teenage baseball prodigy named Eric Dobbs has gone missing in her hometown in Nebraska—surprising news to Colter, who thought Billie was from Miami. Estranged from her former community, Billie needs Colter to act as a buffer between her and the people she once wronged. Though reluctant, Colter agrees, setting the stage for a tense partnership.
As they dive into the search, it becomes clear that the case is anything but straightforward. The pair follow a trail of clues that eventually point to a disturbing underground biohacking group using young blood as an anti-aging treatment. When the man offering the reward—Shane Nile—backs out, Billie is ready to walk away. For her, no money means no mission.
That’s when things take a darker turn. Shane kidnaps Billie and leads her to where Eric is being held captive. In true Colter fashion, he rescues them both. The harrowing experience prompts Billie to lower her guard and share some personal history, offering a rare glimpse into her emotional world. But even this moment of vulnerability isn’t enough to bridge the gap between them.
A Clash of Values That Can’t Be Ignored
While Colter and Billie have undeniable chemistry, their core principles are worlds apart. Colter’s motivation comes from a deep-seated desire to help people. He pursues justice even when there’s nothing to gain, simply because it’s the right thing to do. Billie, on the other hand, is driven by profit. Her decision to abandon the case once the reward money disappears is a stark contrast to Colter’s unwavering sense of duty.
This moral divide is more than a personality quirk—it’s the reason a relationship between them would never survive. In their line of work, professional values are personal values. There’s no separation between who they are and what they do. And if they were to attempt a romantic relationship, it would likely be filled with constant conflict and emotional burnout.
Even when they work together, the tension is palpable. They’re competitive, stubborn, and often at odds. That friction may make for great television, but it’s a recipe for disaster in any long-term relationship. Colter needs someone whose ideals match his own—someone who sees justice as a calling, not just a payday.
Billie’s Role in Tracker Still Has Room to Grow
Despite the incompatibility, fans haven’t seen the last of Billie. Sofia Pernas is slated to return in future episodes of Tracker season 2. According to Justin Hartley, Pernas will appear multiple times throughout the season, though specific episodes have not been confirmed. With the season reportedly consisting of 22 episodes, there’s plenty of room for Billie’s story to expand—just not as Colter’s romantic partner.
Instead, her return opens up new narrative possibilities. Billie could serve as a mirror to Colter’s character—someone who challenges him and reflects what he could have been if his moral compass pointed elsewhere. A future spinoff focusing on Billie’s adventures wouldn’t be out of the question either. Her cutthroat, no-nonsense approach makes her a fascinating character in her own right, even if she doesn’t belong at Colter’s side.
Looking Ahead in Tracker Season 2
As Tracker continues to unfold, more familiar faces are set to return. Jensen Ackles is expected to reprise his role as Russell Shaw after his appearance in episode 2, and there’s hope that Melissa Roxburgh will also make a comeback as Dory Shaw. With such a rich lineup of guest stars and deepening storylines, Tracker season 2 is shaping up to be an exciting ride.
While Billie’s presence adds sparks and conflict, it also reinforces what Tracker fans are beginning to understand: not all chemistry leads to compatibility. Colter and Billie may have history and heat, but when it comes to values and vision, they’re just not meant to be. And sometimes, the strongest storytelling comes from showing exactly why two people shouldn’t end up together.
