BREAKING NEWS! Justin Hartley officially speaks out about drug test rumors: “I apologize to the audience”
Justin Hartley Addresses Drug Test Rumors: “I Apologize to the Audience”In a surprising turn of events, Tracker star Justin Hartley has publicly addressed swirling rumors about alleged drug test failures, calling them “baseless” and expressing regret for the confusion they’ve caused his fans. The 48-year-old actor, best known for his roles in This Is Us and CBS’s hit series Tracker, took to social media on July 1, 2025, to set the record straight, apologizing to his audience for the distraction caused by what he described as .
The rumors began circulating online in late June 2025, following a now-deleted article from an obscure blog that claimed Hartley had failed a drug test during the production of Tracker’s second season. The article alleged that the actor tested positive for unspecified substances, citing an anonymous source close to the production. Despite lacking credible evidence, the story gained traction on social media platforms, with some speculating about Hartley’s behavior on set and others questioning his professionalism. The timing was particularly damaging, as Hartley’s ChangeUp Productions recently signed a multi-year first-look deal with 20th Television, a milestone in his flourishing career.
In a heartfelt statement posted on X, Hartley wrote, “I apologize to the audience for the confusion and distraction caused by these baseless rumors. I’ve always prided myself on my work ethic and commitment to my craft. To my fans, I want to assure you that there’s no truth to these claims. My focus remains on delivering stories that resonate, like Tracker, and I’m grateful for your support.” The post quickly garnered thousands of supportive responses, with fans praising Hartley’s transparency and professionalism.The fake news article, which lacked any verifiable details, appears to have been an attempt to capitalize on Hartley’s rising fame. Tracker, which premiered after the Super Bowl in 2024, has become a breakout hit, reaching over 100 million viewers and ranking as the #1 new series on television since 2000. Hartley stars as Colter Shaw, a rugged survivalist who solves mysteries and collects rewards, a role that has cemented his status as a leading man. The show’s success, coupled with Hartley’s acclaimed performance as Kevin Pearson in This Is Us, has kept him in the spotlight, making him an easy target for sensationalist rumors.
Industry insiders have dismissed the drug test allegations as “fabricated nonsense.” A representative from 20th Television told Variety, “Justin is a consummate professional, and these claims are entirely unfounded. We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with him and ChangeUp Productions.” Sources close to the Tracker set also confirmed that no such drug test incident occurred, emphasizing Hartley’s dedication to the project.
This incident highlights the growing issue of fake news in the entertainment industry, where unverified stories can spread rapidly online. Hartley’s response mirrors recent efforts by other public figures, like Elon Musk, who have combated false reports with transparency. While the rumors have been debunked, they serve as a reminder of the challenges celebrities face in the digital age. For now, Hartley is focused on Tracker’s upcoming season and new projects under his 20th Television deal, undeterred by the noise.
