Justin Hartley is trading one network for another. The Tracker star has signed on to lead ABC's upcoming crime drama 'A Forgotten Kill', a dark and twist-filled series based on Isabella Maldonado's bestselling novel. This marks a major move for the actor, who has been a cornerstone of CBS's lineup.
The series centers on a detective grappling with a decades-old murder that was never solved—a case that resurfaces with chilling new evidence. Hartley's character must confront the ghosts of the past while navigating a present-day conspiracy that threatens to unravel everything he knows. It's a classic cold-case premise with a modern, gritty edge.
Maldonado's novel, praised for its intricate plotting and psychological depth, provides a rich foundation. The adaptation is being developed by a team of experienced crime-drama writers, promising a season-long mystery that will keep viewers guessing. ABC is positioning A Forgotten Kill as a flagship thriller, aiming to capture the audience that made Tracker a hit.
Hartley's move to ABC is a significant shift in the television landscape. After anchoring CBS's Tracker, he's now bringing his intense, leading-man energy to a new network. The role allows him to explore a darker, more complex character—a detective haunted by failure and driven by obsession.
For fans of gritty crime dramas, this is a must-watch. The series joins a growing list of high-profile crime thrillers on network TV, including recent hits like Henry Cavill's 'Night Hunter' and Titus Welliver and J.K. Simmons' 'The Westies'. ABC is betting that audiences are hungry for more serialized, suspenseful storytelling.
The series is expected to premiere in the 2026-2027 season, with production slated to begin later this year. Casting for additional roles is underway, and the network is already teasing a multi-season arc. Hartley's involvement is a major coup for ABC, signaling their commitment to high-quality, character-driven crime dramas.
If you're looking for more crime-thriller recommendations, check out our list of gritty crime dramas to dive into after 'Spider-Noir', or explore the heaviest crime movies ever made. For those who love a good mystery, A Forgotten Kill promises to be a standout addition to the genre.
Stay tuned for more updates as ABC reveals additional details about the series, including its showrunner, supporting cast, and premiere date. One thing is certain: Justin Hartley is about to make a big impression on a new network.
