The popular CBS TV series, “Tracker,” known for actor Justin Hartley’s role as a survivalist who tracks missing persons for rewards, will be relocating its production to California after three successful seasons filmed in Vancouver and southern British Columbia. The move comes as the show gears up for its fourth season in Los Angeles next month, benefiting from a substantial $48 million US tax credit, as reported by entertainment news site Deadline.
The show, which debuted in February 2024 and has been a ratings hit for CBS, will leave a significant impact on the local industry in British Columbia, where it was based at Martini Film Studios in Langley. Gemma Martini, CEO of the studio and chair of Screen BC, expressed disappointment over losing the series, highlighting its positive economic contributions to communities across the province.
Acknowledging the support from Vancouver for the first three seasons, showrunner Elwood Reid expressed gratitude and excitement for the upcoming season in Los Angeles, thanks to the tax credit incentive program. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office welcomed the news, emphasizing the boost to local employment and businesses.
“Tracker” is among the 16 productions approved for tax credits under California’s $750 million incentive program, with its $48 million credit being the largest for the year and the only one moving from a different location, according to Deadline. Despite the move, British Columbia has been actively enhancing its own incentive programs to attract productions, aiming to sustain and grow the local industry.
The film and television sector in British Columbia contributed significantly to the economy in 2024, generating $3.1 billion and creating around 42,000 jobs, according to Creative BC. As “Tracker” bids farewell to Vancouver, other productions like “Watson” and “Fire Country” have faced cancellations or reduced orders, while several ongoing projects continue to support the local industry, indicating a dynamic landscape for film and television production in the region.