While the show is known for its lightness and general wrapping things up in a nice and neat little bow, “One Angry Woman” gave viewers a crash course in what this show is capable of.

Elsbeth continues to raise the stakes and keep things fresh in exciting ways that not even die-hard fans can anticipate, yours truly included. Then again, it doesn’t hurt to play against the love of your life.

Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7 introduced Micheal Emerson’s killer, Judge Milton, in the most exhilarating way. Not to mention a giant easter egg from Emerson’s previous and most prominent role in Evil.

Elsbeth Gives Audiences A Massive Evil Easter Egg

I just have to get this out of the way now. If you’re a fan of Evil and Elsbeth, you may be like this TV Fanatic and noticed a massive crossover between the two shows.

Are you ready for this? The courtroom in Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7, “One Angry Woman,” is the exact same courtroom from Evil Season 1 Episode 1, where audiences first meet Emerson’s character.

How mind-blowing is that? While it’s not unheard of for shows, especially those on the same network, to share locations, this seemed remarkably purposeful and is deeply appreciated.

Easter eggs aside, Michael Emerson is a force of nature once he steps into a role.

As mentioned in the Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7 Spoilers, Carries Preston had initially hoped for Emerson to play a character opposite to the creep roles he is usually cast in.

Suffice it to say, we are quite glad that did not happen because, within one episode, Judge Milton left such an impression on viewers that there’s a good chance the judge could become a staple of the show.

Everyone loves a good rival origin story, and there’s something so juicy about keeping it close to home and in the family.

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Elsbeth Dips Its Toes Into An Old But Still Beloved Series From The ‘80s

Weirdly, “One Angry Woman” is set up so similarly to the first episode of Matlock. No, I’m not talking about the Kathy Bates one. I’m referring to the Andy Griffith run.

In that late ‘80s episode, Dick Van Dyke murders a woman he is sleeping with and frames the lover. Later, it is revealed that he is the judge on the case.

Much like this episode of Elsbeth, Dick Van Dyke’s Judge Carter Addison did all he could to derail the defense, much to the titular character’s confusion and anger.

Those feelings are going around because we saw a fired-up Elsbeth ready to jump into the fray for justice. Seriously, she looked ready to blow a gasket at any moment.

It was bad enough that he kept bringing up his family coming over on the Mayflower. That’s a weird flex. I don’t know why that’s impressive. My ancestors were already here.

Thankfully, Elsbeth’s keen sleuthing skills and expert eye for detail secured her spot on the jury by outing a garbage podcast host with questionable views on women.

That guy’s podcast was called “Nut Job Sluts Who Kill.” Not even Judge Milton could find a way to justify having him on the jury.

However, it wasn’t all intense stare-offs between Elsbeth and Milton. There were plenty of light and comedic moments to break up the tension.

Family Will Forever Be A Part Of The Heart Of Elsbeth

If you were along for the ride with TV Fanatic through Elsbeth Season 1, you know I had a chip on my shoulder about Teddy being a terrible son who never called or visited.

I am so glad to say that I was incredibly wrong. Teddy is as sweet as his mama and just so darn adorable. He really is just as kind and thoughtful as Elsbeth.

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Teddy wasn’t mentioned in this episode’s promo, photos, or description. So, even though he was in Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 6 at the end, there was no guarantee he would stick around.

Like Elsbeth, we’d love it if Teddy made a trip to NYC more often, especially if his new guy, Roy, lives in Brooklyn.

Didn’t it just melt your heart when Kaya (Carra Patterson) got so excited about showing Teddy around the city? This show depicts how people can come into our lives as if they were always family.

There’s more to that precinct than meets the eye.

Carrie Preston And Michael Emerson Brought Incredible Chemistry That Translated Into The Very Best Episode Of The Series

After multiple random pop-ups, viewers finally got a clearer picture of what is going on with Lieutenant Connor. Apparently, he was salty about the captain giving Elsbeth Noonan’s office.

To be fair, I have always found it really strange when characters who do the same job as other employees have MUCH nicer offices.

It’s been present in popular shows like Emily in Paris and the original run for Charmed, where Phoebe (Alyssa Milano), the advice columnist, had her own private office away from the bullpen.

It’s a weird storytelling tool that is slowly but surely making its way out of TV, namely on shows like Matlock, where Kathy Bates shares an office with two other associates.

However, as Lieutenant Connor did in this episode, we see Elsbeth’s worth and why she should, in fact, have her own private space. She needs a lot of room for all that thinking.

We can officially take Lieutenant Connor off the naughty list, as he is no longer gunning for Elsbeth or making things difficult for Captain Wagner.

Also, this could just be me, but did anyone else notice a slight sparkle in the lieutenant’s eyes whenever he addressed Teddy? It might just be me, but seeing those two together would make for hysterical TV.

Either way, it’s great to have one less person for Elsbeth to worry about because by the end of “One Angry Woman,” everyone’s favorite Chicago attorney caught the scent of murder from Judge Milton.

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Carrie Preston and Michael Emerson brought incredible chemistry that translated into the best episode of the series. If Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7 doesn’t stir some awards feathers, then the system is broken.

Thankfully, there is one more episode before CBS‘s Elsbeth takes a slight pause through the winter holidays. The series will be back and ready for more campy fun in early 2025.

However, if the next episode is anything like “One Angry Woman,” wear a helmet because we will likely have our minds blown again.

Did you notice the Easter Egg from Evil and the similarity to Matlock?

This episode had so many incredible moments; what was your favorite?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you think, and join me again when I review another episode of Elsbeth!

Watch Elsbeth Online

The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7 Sees Justice Take A Day Off As The Titular Character Squares Off Against Her Greatest Threat Yet appeared first on TV Fanatic.

That’s right. Everyone’s favorite psycho from Evil, Michael Emerson, is bringing his cold, dead smile to the courtroom. CBS sure does like to keep everything in the Paramount family.

Preston and Emerson are best known for their roles on shows like Elsbeth and Evil, which are not only Paramount+ residents but stem from the same showrunners.

I wasn’t kidding when I called this episode a family affair. Both series have showrunners and married couple Robert and Michelle King’s hands working behind the scenes.

So, with two married couples in front and behind the camera, there’s bound to be a ridiculous amount of entertaining chemistry. Plus, don’t you love it when real-life couples play foils for each other?

It’s “Bring Your Spouse To Work” Day On Elsbeth

It’s certainly not unheard of for couples in the acting world to play opposite each other. Many times, actors begin relationships while working on a project together.

While I could go down a rabbit hole of iconic actors who fit the bill, we would be here all day, and I’m not trying to take away Wikipedia’s job. Suffice it to say, the chemistry almost always comes through.

For example, fans of the Hulu series Tell Me Lies can have firsthand experience of watching real-life couple Jackson White and Grace Van Patten rip into each other in every episode.

It’s kind of a trend at this point for couples to play antagonists to one another in whatever project they are starring in. Maybe it’s some form of couple’s therapy.

Either way, that’s exactly what viewers have in store with “One Angry Woman.”

Michael Emerson Is Bringing His Years Of Creepiness On Evil Over To Elsbeth

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The official synopses for Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7 reads: “Elsbeth finally makes it as a true New Yorker when she is summoned to jury duty.

“She lands on a murder trial where she faces off with the unusually difficult Judge Milton Crawford (Michael Emerson), who will prove a formidable adversary.

Yep, there it is. Funnily enough, the tension between the characters does not come across in the promo, so thank goodness for that episode description.

Around the time of the Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 10, Carries Preston talked with TVLine about the possibilities for the following season. During the interview, her husband was a hot topic for the show.

While Preston expressed a desire for Emerson to play against the type he is typically cast as, i.e., a creep, the man knows where his strengths lie.

Michael was one of the most exciting, infuriating, and fascinating characters on the Paramount+ series Evil. If you haven’t seen the show, I won’t spoil it for you. All I’ll say is that the devil is in the details.

Interestingly enough, the actor’s debut in both series starts in a courtroom, albeit in very different roles. Nonetheless, he’s good at getting in the way of the law.

Elsbeth Is Keeping Things As Close To Home As Possible

The description says explicitly that Emerson’s character, Milton, will be a “formidable adversary” for Elsbeth. So, he’ll probably be sticking around for a few episodes.

However, the real question is why a judge would be so antagonistic towards a juror, let alone a lawyer who works with the NYPD. Shouldn’t they be on the same side?

Is it a matter of not liking lawyers? Because he chose the wrong career if that is the case. Or does he have a past with Elsbeth that he hasn’t overcome?

Maybe they dated, and she ghosted him? Probably not, since we learned in Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 6 that Elsbeth is catnip for firemen. Lucky girl.

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We also finally saw Elsbeth’s son, Teddy, make his first appearance in The Good Wife universe. Teddy is played by Ben Levi Ross, known for his stage role in Dear Evan Hansen, where he was an understudy for Evan.

While he is not mentioned in the description, promo, or photos for “One Angry Woman,” it would be a boon for viewers to see at least one scene of Elsbeth and her son spending time together.

Granted, it will have to be a quick scene if Elsbeth is going to be caught up in jury duty.

Elsbeth May Be Packing In More Stories Than It Has Time For

In the promo for Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7, the first thing viewers will hear is a woman telling Elsbeth, “She supposedly snuck into her neighbor’s apartment and beat him to death.”

Not to point out a strange development, but this will be the fourth female killer in a row, even if she is possibly innocent. Is that strange?

The first three episodes all had male killers, and every episode since Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 4 has featured a female killer. The episodes were so fun; who would’ve even noticed? This TV Fanatic, that’s who.

Again, though, for once, the killer may actually be innocent, as Elsbeth is heard in the promo saying, “She’s being railroaded. What I can’t figure out is why.”

So, not only will Elsbeth not technically work a case, but she’ll also be dipping back into her lawyer roots and trying to find a way to exonerate the defendant.

Sadly, this will be the last episode before Elsbeth takes a little pause through the New Year. Whatever this episode has in store for audiences, it likely sets up the plot for the second half of Elsbeth Season 2.

Hopefully, with all this focus on Carrie Preston and her husband, we still get some scenes with the lovable Officer Kaya and the recently much more comedic Captain Wagner.

Seriously, what is going on with Lieutenant Connor? The character only pops up when it’s time to make the good captain sweat about being popular.

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Then there was that BS he pulled with Kaya in Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 1, which pretty much derailed Kaya’s becoming a detective.

However, in “Gold, Frankincense, and Murder,” it was all good news regarding her detective exams.

Between Connor, Kaya, and the captain, there are enough sub-plots for a spinoff, but let’s get through the holidays before we start that talk. That would make it the third spinoff of the franchise.

Then again, CBS loves to expand almost every show that falls into its lap. From NCIS to FBI, the network is a veritable playground for expansion.

All in all, this episode will take the story in a new direction with the introduction of Emerson’s character. But is that wise, given that so many other arcs still hang in the air?

I’m speaking, of course, about the publicized divorce in Chicago that Elsbeth is still caught up in. Then again, maybe that’s the connection to why Emerson’s character will be so antagonistic towards Elsbeth.

At this point, all we can do is sit back and enjoy this incredibly entertaining and campy series with all its ridiculousness and heartwarming fun.

Now, check out the promo for CBS‘s Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7 below!

Do you think we’ll see Teddy again in this episode?

Why do you think Emerson’s Judge Milton will be so antagonistic with Elsbeth?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you think, and join me again when I review this episode of Elsbeth!

Watch Elsbeth Online

The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7 Spoilers: Michael Emerson Makes The Switch From Evil To Elsbeth appeared first on TV Fanatic.

This episode had its stocking stuffed with holiday cheer and merry murder mayhem. From beginning to end, it was a laugh riot with some of the best running jokes of the season and so many shoutouts to previous episodes.

Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 6 was somehow a “howcatchem” and a murder mystery in one. Now, that is what I call an early Christmas present.

So many moments had viewers asking themselves, “Did DeeDee kill Dirk, or was it a happy accident?” By “happy accident,” I meant she would’ve avoided being killed if she were innocent.

Alas, in the end, America’s Mrs. Claus turned out to be the Grinch that killed Christmas. At least, she tried anyway because Elsbeth is about to have the happiest holiday ever.

“Why Do People Like A Strange Man Breaking Into Their Homes?”

Let me get this out of the way right now; boy, was I so wrong about this episode. If you read the Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 6 Spoilers, you know I fully expected Elsbeth’s son to continue his invisibility act.

Good God, I was so wrong and am glad about it. Forget calling for Christmas because Elsbeth’s son, Teddy, showed up in a damn Santa suit just to surprise his mom.

If you kept up with Elsbeth Season 1 with TV Fanatic, one of my pet peeves from the first season was that Elsbeth’s son seemed to be icing her out of his life.

In the spirit of the holidays, I am officially putting Teddy on the “Nice List” because making your mom tear up with happiness and joy is a surefire way off the “Naughty List.”

Although Teddy wasn’t the only thing I was wrong about in this episode, I surprisingly wasn’t far from the mark. Instead of Fire Marshall Jake, audiences were introduced to Fire Marshall Lee Sparks.

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The Sparks Flew For Elsbeth, Who Seems To Be Fireman Catnip

Seriously, what is with the firemen on Elsbeth? It’s been building ever since Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2. Did you see how they were all staring Elsbeth down? One guy was on the ground doing push-ups while smiling at her.

I would like to say it was creepy, but CBS found themselves some of the hottest firemen in New York City. I’m slightly annoyed at Kaya for blocking Fire Marshall Lee from hitting on Elsbeth.

That man was insanely handsome and clearly passionate about his job. He and Elsbeth (Carrie Preston) could have had little crime and firefighting babies. Oh, well. At least the firemen are genuinely helpful and not just hot as hell.

Speaking of hot helpers, we must talk about all of Dirk Dasher’s “little” elves. First, there was the hilarious running joke from the Elsbeth writers about Dirk because, let’s not beat around the bush about this.

If your husband is obsessed with Christmas, loves singing carols, and is surrounded by fit, hot men who look like they could break out in dance at any moment, then you’re married to Mariah Carey.

I about died laughing when Molly Price’s (And Just Like That…) Detective Donnelly made Holly confirm that they were talking about the same Dirk Dasher when Holly referred to him as “the best lover she ever had.”

I guess Dirk decked the halls with Boughs of Holly. The joke was right there.

The look on Donnelly’s face alone, but then again, she always delivers the best deadpan humor to round out the show.

“New Yorkers Love Good Moving Boxes”

Detective Donnelly has certainly been present during Elsbeth Season 2, and we are not mad about it. For one thing, she gets some of the best quotable lines in the series.

For example, when Captain Wagner asked, “Dirk had a Holly?” Donnelly responded, “It’s all so on the blinking red nose.” She said that without missing a beat and with such sincerity.

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And, of course, this little gem and running joke about Donnelly’s status as a real New Yorker when she said, “New Yorkers love good moving boxes.” To be fair, New York City is its own chaotic animal.

“Gold, Frankincense, and Murder ” references previous episodes in abundance. During the bar scene, close listeners might have caught Elsbeth specifically asking for seedless apple juice.

Viewers may remember that Vannessa Williams’ Roslyn juiced hundreds of apple seeds so the cops would detect cyanide in her system during Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 4.

However, the biggest callback has to be Gisela (Gee-Zuh-Luh) Mott. If you’re like this TV Fanatic, you have to be spoon-fed context to remember where the character is from.

It was her sunglasses that solved the murder the last time we saw her on Elsbeth eason 1 Episode 10. Funnily enough, Donnelly was also the detective on that case.

Gisela Mott randomly popped up at the end to briefly confirm what Elsbeth was saying during the confrontation with DeeDee, which had me cracking up and laughing.

“All I Want For Christmas Is This Case Solved”

There was so much camp in this episode and, really, Season 2 as a whole. Things have taken a much lighter tone than Elsbeth Season 1.

That may essentially be due to the possible closing of Captain Wagner’s corruption case. It has been so much fun seeing a lighter and more fun side to the character.

Between trying to win a popularity contest at the precinct and spending this entire episode trying to find a gift for his wife, Captain Wagner (Wendell Pierce) is the real Santa this season.

Also, I’d like to throw this out there: Did anyone else notice the MULTI-COLORED bucket hat Elsbeth rocked at the start of the episode? I felt personally attacked.

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All in all, this was one of the best holiday episodes of the broadcast season. I can’t imagine there was a viewer left who wasn’t in the holiday spirit by the end.

Luckily, CBS’s Elsbeth has one more episode in store before it takes a little break until after the New Year.

So, get your knee pads ready and brace for what will likely be a cliffhanger ending that will drive viewers crazy for the rest of the holiday season.

Did this episode put you in the holiday mood?

Were you shocked that Teddy made a surprise appearance at the end of the episode?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you liked about this episode, and join me again when I review another episode of Elsbeth!

Watch Elsbeth Online

The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 6 Review: Gold, Frankincense, and Murder appeared first on TV Fanatic.

You may have to watch the promo for “Gold, Frankincense, and Murder” to understand the reference above. Don’t worry because we are going to unpack what could be the campiest episode of the season.

That being said, Elsbeth has enough quirkiness for two shows. Couple that with some holiday cheer, and you have some certified yuletide mayhem.

It may be the happiest time of the year, but let’s not forget the crowds, alcohol consumption, desperation, gift-giving pressure, emotional instability, and homes left vacant.

This is a tough time of year for many people, and someone always snaps. So, let’s all be thankful for shows like Elsbeth that keep us laughing through the good and bad times.

It’s The Happiest Time Of The Year On Elsbeth Unless You’re Detective Donnelly

The Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 6 promo kicks things off with the jolliest guy in the North Pole dead as a doornail. Someone should let Mrs. Claus know she has to take care of the reindeer now.

Well, it wouldn’t be Elsbeth if someone didn’t drop dead. At the start of the promo, the titular character can be heard saying, “Oh, my gosh. Is that Santa?” as the covered body is wheeled out.

Sure, a dead Santa means there is murder afoot, but the most exciting thing about that part of the trailer is that you can see a certain blonde detective on the case.

That’s right, Molly Price’s (And Just Like That…) Detective Donnelly is back with all her glorious dry humor and perfectly timed quips dipped in cynicism and general crankiness. Donelly is a vibe.

Who else could sum up a murder with just the right amount of New York sarcasm when the investigator says, “Classic Christmas light string shock and ladder fall resulting in a reindeer antler impalement.”

Can you imagine the character giving a eulogy? Her deadpan humor perfectly complements Elsbeth’s over-the-top nature.

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I think it’s safe to say that Donnelly has been featured more than any other supporting character detective. She was just seen playing poker with the team in Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 5.

Donnelly isn’t the only familiar face gracing the screen in “Gold, Frankincense, and Murder.” Fans of Saturday Night Live are in store for an early Christmas treat wrapped in homicide.

Elsbeth Is Giving Viewers The Treat Of An SNL Alum Wrapped In Homicide

There are certain actors that you will recognize immediately for specific talents, like Morgan Freeman’s voice. There are specific key identifiers that surge through your memory reserves and light up your synapses to recognize that person.

In the case of Vaness Bayer, it’s that big, beautiful smile of hers that makes you want to crack up laughing. After doing almost one hundred and fifty episodes on SNL, this lady knows how to make viewers laugh.

While many of her characters from the late-night live sketch comedy variety show are iconic, the actor has paved her way to a solid film and television career.

If you love comedy that dips into absurd humor with vampires, you must see Bayer as Evie Russell, an emotional vampire on What We Do In The Shadows. The woman is hilarious.

Listen, Vanessa knows how to turn her strengths into a career. So, while finding her in a serious dramatic role may be challenging, her comedic roles are practically endless.

When you’re done laughing your butt off at Bayer on Elsbeth, you can watch her continue to deliver laughs on other shows like Barry and Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

Who Had Impalement By Reindeer Antlers On Their Murder Bingo Card?

The official synopsis for Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 6 reads: “Celebrity Christmas curators Dirk and DeeDee Dashers (Vanessa Bayer) go from tinsel to tragedy after Dirk is killed in a freak accident.

“Elsbeth begins to suspect his wife is behind the murder. Meanwhile, Elsbeth (Carrie Preston) gets a holiday surprise courtesy of Wagner and Kaya.”

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Correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t it always the spouse? This feels like an open-and-shut case, which means the writers likely filled this episode with enough camp and quirk to last till New Year.

What other show can serve up a homicidal killer decked out in holiday attire named DeeDee? Elsbeth always does right by its audience. The means of murder alone is a treat.

Who had impalement by reindeer antlers on their murder bingo card? No one?

Funnily enough, there has yet to be an impalement on the series, but the writers saw their opportunity to make the holiday season a little redder.

However, the real mystery is at the end of the description of “Gold, Frankincense, and Murder.” What could Officer Kaya and Captain Wagner be up to?

Enjoy The Holidays Now, Elsbeth, Because Winter Is, Technically, Here, But Also Still Coming

Let me get this out of the way right now. What I’m hoping for with every fiber of my being is that Kaya and Wagner are about to play matchmaker for Elsbeth.

Many viewers, myself included, had such high hopes during Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2 when Fire Marshall Jake entered our and Elsbeth’s world.

That tall drink of water took one look at Elsbeth and had her fumbling with her consonants. That’s my Christmas wish for Elsbeth. That she has a reason to stand under the mistletoe.

At the very least, we know it has nothing to do with the Chicago case that Elsbeth seems to be caught up in. In “Elsbeth Flips the Bird,” we met the soon-to-be ex-wife caught up in a rather heated and publicized divorce.

There hasn’t been much traction on the case in the show. The only other episode that dealt with this scandal was “The Wrong Stuff,” when Christian Borle’s Carter Schmidt came over from The Good Wife to deliver the news to Elsbeth in person.

Hopefully, the series will pick up the pace on Elsbeth’s lawyer past before it goes on a break until after New Year’s.

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However, I have to say that I don’t think anyone is in a hurry to see Elsbeth separate from her New York team/family to go back to Chicago and deal with a job that won’t seem to let her go.

Still, whatever happens, you know Elsbeth will handle it with her indestructible positivity and big heart for helping innocent people. And still, watch how her son doesn’t call her for Christmas.

For now, check out the promo for CBS’s Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 6 below!

What do you think the surprise from Wagner and Kaya for Elsbeth is?

Did you recognize Vanessa Bayer from other roles she has played?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you think, and join me again when I bring you more Elsbeth spoilers!

Watch Elsbeth Online

The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 6 Spoilers: It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Murder On Elsbeth appeared first on TV Fanatic.

As the series comes to the halfway point of its sophomore season, it’s fair to say there are endless guest appearances. Something that has indeed worked in the show’s favor.

Fans of Elsbeth have more than become accustomed to the revolving door of detectives.

While we will likely still have more new faces down the road, we at least have a core group of investigators.

Now that a good handful of the detectives are buddying up with Elsbeth, it’s about time we get familiar with some of these wildly different but equally entertaining sleuths.

Detective Jackie Donnelly

Don’t claim to be a New Yorker around this intimidating lady unless you’ve done the hard-earned time. You’re not a real New Yorker until you’ve lived in a fifth-floor walkup apartment and the shower is in the kitchen.

Maybe that’s how Donnelly became so surly because while she is a pleasant addition, she’s not exactly Miss Sunshine.

We first met the detective in Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 3, investigating the death of a reality star. From there, it became clear she would have rather be shooting things than having any conversation ever.

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Still, she was one of the very first detectives to show Elsbeth appreciation, albeit in her own way. There’s a smile hiding under Donnelly’s jaded cynicism.

Remember when the detective told Elsbeth to do her “thing” because it “works” even though she didn’t respect it? That’s sisterhood right there.

The Elsbeth writers must feel the same because she’s already popped up twice during Season 2.

Molly Price

Believe it or not, Molly Price has been in the entertainment industry for over thirty years. You know what that means, right? You’ve definitely seen her in one thing or another.

You may have seen her in the FX series FEUD: Bette and Joan by horror and musical enthusiast Ryan Murphy. In it, she flexed her acting chops alongside Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon.

Then again, it could be anything from her three decades of acting like And Just Like That…, The Path, or Almost Family.

Hopefully, Detective Donnelly isn’t going anywhere any time soon because Elsbeth needs as many detectives in her corner as she can. We’ll get to that in a minute.

Detective Buzz Fleming

Detective Grandpa is in the house and has nothing but stories about the good old days, much to HR’s chagrin. Buzz has been a very welcomed addition to Elsbeth.

Having been introduced in Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 1, the character quickly established that he’s far too old to retire. That man is going to be busting criminals till he’s dust.

Interestingly, he’s been at the precinct for a while, judging by how Fleming and Donnelly exchanged pleasantries during the poker game in “Elsbeth Flips the Bird.”

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Truthfully, I was expecting new detectives, but I thought we would be getting a fresh-faced recruit.

That said, I’m glad I was wrong because Detective Grandpa has the perfect unbothered energy that compliments a show as campy as Elsbeth.

Daniel Oreskes

Now, here is a man who knows his way around a precinct or two. Before you jump to any conclusions, I just meant that this actor has been in several police procedurals.

Let’s be honest; procedurals rule broadcast television, so it’s no surprise that Daniel Oreskes has been around the broadcast block a time or two. And by “two,” I mean many, MANY times.

From Law & Order, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Law & Order: Organized Crime to Rescue Me, Blue Bloods, and Elementary, Oreskes has been sneaking onto screens for years.

It’s not all procedurals, though. The actor has strayed from the beaten path a time or two. Namely, fans of Only Murders In The Building may recognize him as “Marv.” He was a staple on Courage, the Cowardly Dog for all those ‘90s kids out there.

Then again, maybe, just maybe, you recognize Daniel Oreskes from The Good Wife. You didn’t think it was just the murderers who were reintroduced characters, did you?

Detective Samantha Edwards

If this series had been written thirty years ago, Detective Edwards would have been characterized as Elsbeth’s rival but would have been considered difficult by her male colleagues for always wanting to be thorough.

Luckily, Elsbeth’s fantastic writers are brilliant, so Edwards not only isn’t a cliche but shows that getting the job done is more important than making friends.

Did Samantha and Elsbeth have a rocky start to their working relationship in Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 6? I’m pretty sure Edwards wanted to shoot her after five minutes of conversation. Still, she’s a good cop.

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Unlike the other detectives at the precinct, Detective Edwards naturally thinks outside the box and pursues every clue that other cops don’t.

She may be a little sharp with her words, but if it means the case is solved and justice is served, I’m all for Samatha’s permanent frown.

At least she and Elsbeth finally find common ground in “Elsbeth Flips the Bird.” Nothing brings people together like the “Avocado Cartel.” Remember that nonsense?

Micaela Diamond

If you’re like this TV Fanatic, you likely feel that Micaela Diamond came out of nowhere but is popping up everywhere. You would be right in that assessment, as the actor has only been in the game for six years.

Having started on Broadway, Diamond quickly proved her acting prowess. She went from playing Mary Magdalene in a Jesus Christ Superstar Live in-concert television special to CBS’s Elsbeth.

Most recently, she joined Niecy Nash in the Ryan Murphy series on FX, Grotesquerie. That’s quite a meteoric rise if you ask me.

While she’s not a household name at the moment, I can certainly see her star shining years down the road from a carefully crafted filmography.

You can catch Micaela Diamond in her other roles on The Gilded Age, Up Here, and in the Netflix original movie Tick, Tick… Boom! alongside Andrew Garfield and Vanessa Hudgens.

Detective Bobby Smullen

We’ve saved the worst for last because this character has unfortunately allied himself with the enemy. We may not know what the new Lieutenant has in store for Wagner (Wendell Pierce) and Elsbeth, but we know Smullen’s deal.

Since day one, Detective Smullen has been a constant thorn in Elsbeth’s side. I’m surprised that Elsbeth and Kaya (Carra Patterson) don’t groan unanimously when he enters the room.

For some reason, he is the only detective that refuses to give Elsbeth a chance. He dismisses every theory she poses. The captain had to separate them in Elsbeth Season 1 like they were his kids.

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The detective was first introduced in Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 1. Now Wagner has to deal with Smullen and Connor buddying up and forcing the poor captain to make everyone at the precinct like him.

Do you see what you’re doing to the captain, Smullen? The man bought milkshakes and held a poker game. It’s diabolical.

Danny Mastrogiorgio

Unlike his insufferable character, Danny Mastrogiorgio would be friends with Elsbeth in real life. Believe it or not, we have another Broadway buff here.

Mastrogiorgio has been shuffling from the stage to the screen and back again for thirty years. Before you even ask, the man has been in practically every procedural under the sun.

He probably just stays in his costume and plays roughly the same character from set to set. In all seriousness, this man has been in everything. Yes, including The Good Wife.

Is there anyone on Elsbeth that hasn’t been on The Good Wife or The Good Fight before? That’s not rhetorical. I’m genuinely curious.

So, while Mastrogiorgio’s character can rub viewers the wrong way, at least he is played by an actor who truly loves the arts.

If you want to see Mastrogiorgio in his other roles to compare notes, you can see the actor in Evil, Power Book III: Raising Kanan, East New York, and The Blacklist.

No doubt, this is far from every detective on Elsbeth, but these are certainly the ones making the biggest splash.

Considering the precinct can only have so many investigators on payroll, we’ll likely have this good group for a while. And hopefully, we’ll have Elsbeth for much more than a while.

With the series taking a seasonal break soon, it’s an excellent time to get those Paramount+ subscriptions active again so you can relive all the hilarious campiness of Elsbeth Season 1 and Season 2.

Did you recognize any of these actors from their previous roles?

Who’s an actor you think would do great on a show like Elsbeth?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you think, and join me again when I share more insights on Elsbeth!

Watch Elsbeth Online

The post Investigating The Investigators Of Elsbeth Season 2: Where Have We Seen These Detectives Before? appeared first on TV Fanatic.

“Elsbeth Flips The Bird” was a nonstop roller coaster ride of the campiest and most insane plotting of the series so far. And we also got to see the return of another Season 1 vet.

However, the most crucial thing that Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 5 brought to life was the criminal cost of avocados. How else could the show reference something like “The Avocado Cartel.”

I was not expecting that level of camp. However, the price of that green gold has skyrocketed, and something needs to be done.

Best of all, we finally received more info on the high-profile case Elsbeth is caught up in.

Elsbeth May Have To Come To Terms With Her Past As A Lawyer

Is it a Chicago thing to mysteriously pull up in an all-black vehicle just to chat with someone in another state?

On Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2, Carter Schmidt rolled up with news for Elsbeth that a case from her past was about to bite them both in the ass.

Now, we meet the soon-to-be ex-wife of Elsbeth’s former client, Mark Van Ness. You know someone is rich when they have the “Van” in their last name. I’m just saying.

From the soon-to-be-single missus, we learned that Elsbeth handled Mark’s previous divorce. In doing so, Elsbeth learned how terrible her client was.

The rub is that Elsbeth didn’t share any of that information with Mark’s new wife, hence the divorce. Now, the wife is claiming that she married Mark under false pretenses.

Was it Elsbeth’s responsibility to tell the new wife what she learned about her client? Or does that fall under lawyer/client confidentiality? Someone call Kathy Bates on Matlock and find out.

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Elsbeth has a big heart, but this is one moral conundrum. It makes you wonder why Elsbeth ever wanted to be a lawyer in the first place. There are other ways to serve justice on a silver platter. Just ask Chef Z.

A Pain Tolerance That Can Only Be Described As Medieval

The Chef in this episode was phenomenal. She was crazy as hell but phenomenal. For one thing, the Chef was a terrible murderer. She left so many clues right from the start.

As soon as she put the dead guy’s phone back, I immediately shouted, “You didn’t wipe your fingerprints!” It may be time to step away from the murder shows.

That said, the kill scene was a little, shall we say, farfetched. First, the guy didn’t even try to push Chef Z off of him. He just stared at her while she slowly lowered her hands to his neck.

Suffice it to say, the murder was not believable in the slightest. Sure, adrenaline probably gave the Chef strength, but the same should have been true for him.

People can become superhuman when they are fighting for their lives. But that scene right after, of the Chef injuring herself, was EVERYTHING. Save that level of insanity for the kitchens on The Bear.

The woman bashed her own head with a meat tenderizer, for god’s sake. At least it led to the hilarious comment from Elsbeth when she described Chef Z’s pain tolerance as “medieval.”

That isn’t the only thing Chef Z gave to Elsbeth. Because the Chef wouldn’t let Elsbeth make a reservation, viewers were gifted with another appearance by the fabulous Nadine Clay.

I Feel Very Strongly That Elsbeth Is Fantastic At Bringing Back Fan-Favorite Characters

If you’ve read the reviews for previous episodes, you know that my absolute favorite guest character is Nadine Clay. The character was last seen on Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 10, feeling very strongly about things.

Since then, she’s gained a pound and returned to smelling food rather than eating it. My god, the character looked incredible — even with her outrageously tiny purse that looked like it was for a cat.

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And who else did we see make another appearance in this nonstop thrill ride of an episode? None other than Detective Grandpa, Detective Donnelly, and Detective Edwards.

Donnelly was just on Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 4, so it was a treat to see the character so soon again. I wouldn’t be mad to have her dry sarcasm in more cases. It perfectly balances Elsbeth’s whimsical nature.

Then there was Detective Grandpa. I’ve already forgotten his real name, but who cares? The man is so funny in that “back in my day” kind of way.

Finally, there is Detective Edwards. Sure, she’s a bit of an acquired taste, but watching the character realize Elsbeth’s worth has been fun.

When first introduced on Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 6, she wasn’t exactly Elsbeth’s biggest fan. Since then, her disdain has thankfully grown to tolerance.

Elsbeth can always use more friends, especially when she’s driving Kaya crazy.

Lieutenants, Lawsuits, And Exams, Oh My!

Elsbeth is a fantastic series that consistently delivers quality writing. However, the campiness is sometimes taken too far and comes across as disingenuous.

The scene where Elsbeth’s cooking distracted Kaya from studying felt incredibly forced.

First, why would Elsbeth (Carrie Preston) make so much noise when she knows her friend is studying? That is very out of character. Secondly, why wouldn’t Kaya just go to a coffee shop?

The Elsbeth writers are really trying to stir an invisible pot because what made the smoke detector go off? There were two pans on the stove, and neither was smoking.

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Still, they are having a much easier time than Wagner (Wendell Pierce). That poor man has never been so bad at anything as he is at trying to get the precinct to like him.

From raffles to poker games, at least the captain is getting good at socializing. That Lieutenant Connor, though, is a real piece of work.

Help me out here. Is he gunning for Wagner and Elsbeth, or is he so detached from human emotion that the only thing that matters to him is protocol?

The character walks around the precinct like C3PO. This is CBS, not Disney+. Seriously, the only two faces he knows how to make are no expression and confusion, so maybe he’s a robot.

Either way, between Wagner’s popularity, Elsbeth’s Chicago case, and Kaya passing her exams, we have a lot to think about while Elsbeth goes on break.

Don’t worry, though — we won’t have to wait long. The series will air more episodes in December before going on break and returning after New Year’s. Until then, watch out for Elsbeth’s knees.

Do you think Elsbeth should have told Mark Van Ness’s new wife what she learned about her client?

What do you think Lieutenant Connor’s deal is with Elsbeth and Captain Wagner?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you liked about this episode, and join me again when I bring you the next Elsbeth Review!

And keep an eye out for the Elsbeth Spoilers posted before each new episode!

Watch Elsbeth Online

The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 5 Review: Elsbeth Flips The Bird appeared first on TV Fanatic.

Even though a character was still killed, viewers were treated to a mini-heist with a less happy ending than the movie that inspired the story.

Granted, you could say any of the Oceans movies inspired it, but since references were made like “you’re looking for your Mindy Kaling,” we know Elsbeth’s Eleven drew themes from Ocean’s 8.

If that wasn’t enough to keep audiences enthralled, the legendary Vanessa Williams gave a hilarious and memorable performance.

Vanessa Williams Is No Stranger To The Good Wife Universe, But Her Character On Elsbeth Is As Brand-New And Shiny As The Jewels She Tried To Heist

No one plays an iconic diva like Vanessa Williams. This titan of the entertainment industry has been acting and crooning her sweet tunes for over forty years.

She is known for her roles in hilarious shows like Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives, and she starred alongside Samuel L. Jackson in 2000’s Shaft.

Fans of The Good Wife may remember her as the recurring character of Courtney Paige during the show’s seventh season.

Elsbeth has practically an endless well of possible episodic killers. Sadly, there has yet to be one from my article about Nine Actors Who Would Make Excellent Guest Stars, aka Killers!

Still, I was happy to be wrong in this case because Vanessa Williams was fantastic. Apart from being absolutely stunning, she is no stranger to playing a tightly wound woman or two.

Her character, Roselyn, is very reminiscent of Wilhelmina Slater from her Ugly Betty days, with just a splash of her character, Renee Perry, from Desperate Housewives.

How hilarious was that fall she did when she was faking having cyanide poisoning? And the fact that no one really bought it was the perfect level of self-aware camp.

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She gets so close, but in the end, the only ones who walk away happy are the police and Judith. Good for her.

She gave decades of her life to that jewelry store just to be thrown out like trash, only to be replaced by a mean, flesh-suit-wearing robot of a woman.

The gem expert wasn’t much nicer, but he hardly deserved to be poisoned with cyanide. That Roselyn was quick on her feet.

However, I don’t know about any of you, but I thought things surrounding this case seemed a little shady.

Detective Donnelly Is Back, And She’s Just As Dry As Ever

Captain Wagner was quick to rule this case an accidental death solely because the jewelry store was strong-arming him. Something about that doesn’t seem right, and Elsbeth clearly agreed.

When you think about it, Captain Wagner came very close to letting a murderer get away. If Elsbeth and Kaya hadn’t continued to look into the case, Roselyn would’ve gotten away not only with the murder but the heist, as well.

A part of me wanted Roselyn to get away with everything, mainly because of the actress playing her. However, I’m not upset about getting another episode with Detective Donnelly.

She may be rough on the outside, but we haven’t forgotten how sweet she was to our favorite Chicago attorney on Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 10.

She was the only detective to wish her farewell and to tell Elsbeth she would be missed. Of course, in classic Donnelly fashion, she ran away before Elsbeth could hug her.

As far as the detective pool is concerned, Donnelly’s dry humor compliments Elsbeth’s whimsical nature. Who else can drop a line like “murder should be fun?” with such perfect dry comedic timing?

One thing we have to talk about is how incredible Elsbeth, Kaya, Donnelly, and even Wagner looked at the gala. My goodness, they each looked terrific.

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Here’s my question, though: Why doesn’t the way Elsbeth dresses for fancy events translate to her everyday clothes?

Someone, Please Burn Elsbeth’s Bucket Hat

Has anyone else noticed the inconsistencies with Elsbeth’s wardrobe? For some reason, her taste becomes impeccable when it’s time to rub elbows with rich people.

This wasn’t the first time Elsbeth stunned in a fabulous ensemble. She was dressed for the gods in Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 4. So, why are we still seeing bucket hats?

It’s no wonder every suspect thinks Elsbeth is not all there. She dresses like she should be pushing a shopping cart of plants and puppies down the sidewalk. If that does happen, you saw it here first.

Seriously, it’s getting out of hand. What was that Pepto Bismal and rhinestone jacket she was rocking in Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 4? One good beam of sunlight on that jacket and everything would go up in flames.

How does she go from wearing that to the stunning dress she rocked at the end of “Elsbeth’s Eleven”? It’s not nice to tease audiences with gorgeous clothes just to bring back the bucket hat.

Interestingly, we haven’t heard a peep about Elsbeth’s involvement in a high-profile Chicago case. The last time we heard anything substantial was on Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2.

Carter Schmidt came and went with one ominous scene that set Elsbeth on edge. However, she seems to be pretty unbothered by the situation.

Still, that other shoe could drop at any moment. At least she’s having an easier time with her arc than Captain Wagner.

Like The Titular Character, Elsbeth, The Series Makes Sure Never To Forget A Familiar Face

That poor man is trying so hard to be liked at the precinct. I’d feel bad about laughing, but the man is like an oak tree — unmovable.

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If it weren’t for the new lieutenant, I doubt Wagner would be trying so hard to win over his colleagues.

I mean, he got Elsbeth and Kaya milkshakes, and it’s a universally held truth that milkshakes make everything better. It’ll be fun to see other tactics he tries to make people like him.

You know what else was a little fun? The references to Lavish Ladies. Is there a character coming back?

Between the sweatshirt Kaya was wearing and the show mentioned by name, it seems like the writers wanted to keep the fictional reality show on our minds — emphasis on fictional.

Since Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 1, numerous references to past episodes have been made. With the trend continuing, we will likely see more characters pop up throughout Season 2.

My money is on Laura Benanti’s Nadine Clay. I would love to see her character sashay back on screen. She is hilariously detached from reality in the best way.

If we’re talking returns, where the heck is John Behlmann’s Fire Marshall, Jake Turling? The man lit a fire in “The Wrong Stuff” under Elsbeth and then disappeared.

We were excited to see Elsbeth return to the dating world, but we soon found out it was a tease. Oh, well.

For now, we will just have to settle for more amazing cases and stories from the Elsbeth writers. CBS’s Elsbeth is a powerhouse series of talented people in front and behind the camera.

Which character from Elsbeth Season 1 do you want to see return?

Do you think we will see more cameos from The Good Wife or The Good Fight?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you liked about this episode, and join me again when I bring you another review for Elsbeth!

Watch Elsbeth Online

The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 4 Review: Elsbeth’s Eleven appeared first on TV Fanatic.

Despite the series’ formulaic approach, with episodic murderers and the typical case-of-the-week format, the hands behind the show continue to find ways to add pink sprinkles of chaos.

Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 3 brought us another suspect we will never forget. And we already know the show isn’t afraid to bring back a familiar face or two.

And while “Devil’s Night” was an apt title for the Elsbeth episode, how much more fun would it have been if it was “Dude, Where’s My Gun?” or “Eternal Nighttime of the Blacked-Out Mind?”

Elsbeth tends to bring out the camp in people.

“I Always Remember Everything And I Hate Myself For It”

This episode was filled to the brim with campy treats and sarcastic tricks of the entertainment variety. First, we have to give it up to Brittany O’Grady as Mac.

The actress was hysterical. Her performance perfectly balanced manic pixie dream girl confidence and unbothered acceptance. But she was way too quick to accept those murder charges.

Brittany O’Grady is incredibly talented, yet she has only been in the film and TV industry for ten years. During that time, she has starred in projects such as The Consultant, The White Lotus, and Star.

Most recently, she and Gavin Leatherwood were in the Netflix original “It’s What’s Inside.” I do not recommend watching this horror comedy under any influence, not even wine. It is next-level trippy.

However, like in Elsbeth, O’Grady gives a memorable and charming performance. That was Mac’s only redeeming quality. She was a mess, but she was charismatic as hell.

If you’re like this TV Fanatic, you likely cracked up laughing every time Mac took Kaya’s coffee only to spit it up and critique Kaya’s “bean game.” The comedic timing was sensational.

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Brittany O’Grady’s Mac Is Reminiscent Of Laura Benanti’s Nadine Clay

As sweet as the character was, she was also a walking trainwreck. She didn’t notice that her manager/lawyer/agent was stealing from her and then framed her for murder.

At some point, it’s time to take the club wristbands off and learn how to balance a checkbook. These are the same people who take astrology way too seriously — always worried about the sun and the moon but never their taxes.

Still, Mac was fun, watching her murder party scavenger hunt with Elsbeth dressed as Audrey Hepburn the whole time. Iconic.

O’Grady’s character was reminiscent of Laura Benanti as Nadine Clay in Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 10, which also happens to be the only other actual murder mystery of the series.

Can you imagine Nadine and Mac in the same room together? I think drunk doves would appear with crystals in their mouths. That’s the vibe I get.

Lt. Connor Has Solidified Himself As An Antagonist, And He Is In Good Company.

Regarding the fun Halloween energy, there were as many tricks as there were treats. That Lt. Steve Connor is one sneaky son of a gun.

Initially, I wasn’t sure what to make of him, but now he is on my naughty list. We go straight from Halloween to Christmas references, right?

Even if his job is ensuring the precinct functions at optimal performance, he doesn’t have to be such a jerk. I genuinely think he is taking some pleasure from coming down on Elsbeth.

Did you see his smirk when Detective Smullen signed up for the impromptu evaluation chats that were clearly a ploy to assert dominance?

So, even though Connor does everything by the book, he’s not a stranger to over-enforcement. Couple that with the dark-sided smirk, and the guy solidified his status as an antagonist.

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The bad vibes continued because, as you just read, Detective Smullen returned — que the groans. Out of all the detectives introduced in Elsbeth Season 1, this one is the most exhausting.

He came back just to get Elsbeth riled up, and rile her up he did. I thought Elsbeth was going to stick her fake cigarette in his eye when they were arguing over the case.

Danny Mastrogiorgio’s Detective Bobby Smullen last appeared in Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 9, “Sweet Justice.”

That was the episode about the bartender obsessed with the girl. The whole thing was a rip-off of Netflix’s YOU, but campier.

There May Be Fewer Watercooler Moments For The Trio With The Way Things Are Going

You’d think with Elsbeth’s track record, Smullen would appreciate the asset that she is and not be such a massive pain. At least he managed to pull his head out of his butt long enough to help solve the case.

This one was a doozy, too. At one point, I lost track of what was happening in the case.

If you did as well, the only thing to take away is that Danny hypnotized Mac into shooting the drug-dealing rapper friend who was blackmailing the agent for stealing money from his client. All clear?

However, what still isn’t clear is who Daniel K. Isaac’s (Billions) Lt. Connor is gunning for. Is it Elsbeth, Captain Wagner, or both?

When Connor divulged what he learned from the impromptu evaluations, he started with the info he gained on the captain.

Considering how calculated Connor seems, this was likely a tactic to throw Wagner off his game. The news that he is not liked very much did not sit well with the captain.

As cute as the water cooler scene between Wagner, Kaya, and Elsbeth was, we may see those moments become few and far between.

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Wagner has to worry about the new lieutenant and the upheaval he is bringing. Meanwhile, there is still the matter of Elsbeth’s old Chicago case, which she is caught up in.

The last mention of it was at the beginning of Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 2 when Carter rolled up in his all-black SUV. If you recall, there is a high-profile divorce happening from one of Elsbeth’s previous Chicago cases that has come back to bite her in the butt.

So, yeah, everyone is being spread a little thin in Elsbeth Season 2.

So far, CBS‘s Elsbeth Season 2 has gone out of its way to surpass what it accomplished in Season 1.

The show is creating more exciting cases while flipping the nostalgia switch by bringing back previously seen characters like Dr. Yablonski in Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 1.

Between Elsbeth, Matlock, and NCIS: Origins, CBS is putting out some real winners this broadcast season!

Do you think Elsbeth should be worried about Lt. Connor?

Who do you want to see come back from Elsbeth Season 1?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you liked about this episode, and join me again when I review the next episode of Elsbeth!

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The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 3 Review: Devil’s Night appeared first on TV Fanatic.

This episode, while drawing on multiple themes, secretly weaved a well-rounded episodic case. I’m not sure why the episode was titled “The Wrong Stuff,” though.

For an Elsbeth episode, the title is rather vague. Considering the twists and turns, I would’ve titled this episode something like “Going Up In Flames” or “Out Of The Fire Into Space.”

However, what this episode lacked in creative titling, it more than made up for in an incredibly entertaining episode. Elsbeth continues to deliver more than audiences hope for and exceeds expectations.

Elsbeth Caught Up With An Old Colleague That Left Her More Flabbergasted Than Usual

Right off the bat, this episode dove head-first into all the juicy parts. We’ll get to the wealthy space hobbyists in a minute. Right now, we have to talk about Carter.

We finally have an answer to who was in the mysterious SUV seen at the end of Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 1. It is none other than Carter Schmidt.

The character was first introduced in The Good Wife Season 5 Episode 3. Carter then appeared in the spinoff series The Good Fight.

Christian Borle, who portrays Carter Schmidt, has been in the entertainment industry for almost thirty years. He is known for roles in Evil, Prodigal Son, and Elementary.

Though he is only seen briefly during this episode, he left a lasting impact on Elsbeth and viewers. Apparently, Elsbeth is about to have a conflict of interest.

While the details of the case she worked on that she is legally bound to haven’t been laid out yet, Elsbeth’s reactions tell us she’s more nervous than a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs.

Whatever the situation is, there’s no way it will be as much fun as the case in this episode was.

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If There Is One Thing Space Doesn’t Need, It’s Billionaire Hobbyists

What do you get when you take a group of billionaires and stick them together in a building for two weeks? You get a lack of confidence in humanity, that’s what.

While I’m sure the writers of Elsbeth exaggerated the characters, you have to wonder where they got their inspiration. I do not doubt that people like the characters exist and shouldn’t be going to space.

First of all, I agree with Kaya. I have no desire to be anywhere that doesn’t have oxygen freely available. Never in my life have I ever desired to go into space.

Also, like Kaya, I get that billionaires will do what they want, but is space really the hobby that will scratch that itch?

Either way, Rob Riggle (Curb Your Enthusiasm) did what Rob does best. He’s a character actor who knows his strengths and plays to them. As always, he was the obnoxious guy who laughed at his own jokes.

Despite the possibility of another character being a killer, as expressed in the Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2 Spoilers, we always knew it was Rob Riggle.

I’m not mad about it either because the only thing the other suspect is after is Elsbeth.

Where There Is Smoke, There Is Fire, And Where There Is Elsbeth, There Is Fire Marchal Jake

My goodness that fireman had a burning in his loins for Elsbeth. Dare I say, Elsbeth may have met someone with even less understanding of boundaries than herself.

The sexual chemistry between Elsbeth and John Behlmann’s (The Gilded Age) fire marshall, Jake Turling, was enough to cause an inferno. He certainly had me needing a hose down.

I absolutely love this side arc for Elsbeth. The confusion on her face each time Jake made a move had me screaming. You’ve got to love a man who knows what he wants.

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And by the looks of it, he wants Elsbeth (Carrie Preston) to climb him like a firetruck ladder. Alright, I think I’ve made enough puns involving fire and firefighters.

Hopefully, this means Behlmann will stick around for a while. Let’s hope he isn’t allergic to dogs because I don’t want to choose between Jake and Gonzo.

You already know who will win.

Elsbeth And Team Take One Step Forward And Two Steps Back

While Lt. Steve Connor was nowhere to be seen, his presence was felt in “The Wrong Stuff.” Specifically, Kaya is back to tagging along with detectives.

It was nice seeing the trio working a case together again, but it was a little depressing seeing Kaya in her cop uniform. She made it so far just to take two steps back.

And who knew Captain Wagner (Wendell Pierce) was such a space nut? I would not have pegged him for a NASA enthusiast. That man always zigs when you think he is going to zag.

One thing that perked my ears was the mention of someone’s son again. Like Elsbeth Season 1, the titular character again brings up her son, Teddy.

I am developing a bone to pick with Elsbeth’s son. We haven’t seen the character, but he’s mentioned in almost every episode.

What is her son thinking? Can you imagine how much fun Elsbeth would be at a drag brunch? And you know Elsbeth would be thriving on a mother/son gay cruise.

Who knows? Maybe now that folks from Elsbeth’s past are popping up, her son will venture to NYC.

However, the real question is, what went down with this divorce that Elsbeth is now legally involved in? Will it take her away from the NYPD?

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Like High Potential, Elsbeth is a series that revolves around the protagonist and their talents. In either show, the main character could move to another city or work for a hospital instead of a police station, and it would be, more or less, the same show.

That said, I hope the settings don’t change because NYC seems to have the most outrageous characters involved in the campiest murders.

All of those ingredients are part of what makes Elsbeth such an incredible show. As long as that never changes, you can count on me absorbing every second of this fantastic series.

Do you think Elsbeth is going to pursue the fire marshal?

If you’re familiar with Carter from The Good Wife, do you know the details of the case?

Please drop a comment below to let me know what you liked about this episode, and join me again when I review the next episode of Elsbeth!

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The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2 Review: The Wrong Stuff appeared first on TV Fanatic.

From what we can gather from the promo for the next episode, there’s murder afoot at a space training station, but not for astronauts. No, it’s for “private citizens.” Because that’s what space needs.

Leave it to Elsbeth to continue its trend of truly bizarre murder situations. The series knows its strength lies in how well it incorporates campy elements.

As always, the show leads with its episodic killer with all the grace and subtlety of a sledgehammer. That is also on my murder bingo card for possible Elsbeth Season 2 weapons.

Despite Her Wardrobe, Elsbeth Is The Right Kind Of Crazy

Even though the promo doesn’t give us much to work with, the idea of the murder taking place in a space training station raises some intrigue.

If nothing else, it’ll give Elsbeth plenty of new gadgets and gizmos to futz around with while she looks for clues and intimidates suspects.

It has to be said that Elsbeth has a trademark on how she sizes up murder suspects. This is particularly interesting because she does it in a way that makes them know she knows they know, you know?

Who else but Elsbeth (Carrie Preston) could perfectly lay out all the breadcrumbs that led to solving the case right to the murderer’s face? And she does it with a big smile the entire time.

Despite her insane wardrobe, Elsbeth is the right kind of crazy. But something is missing from the show. Where’s the over-arching plot? Where’s the main course of this murder mystery party?

Elsbeth Season 1 was all about Elsbeth looking into Captain Wagner’s possible corruption. So far, the only clue to the main plot was the strange SUV that pulled up to Elsbeth at the end of Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 1.

Elsbeth Gets Her First Cameo From The Shared Good Wife Universe

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The official synopses for Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2 reads: “When a billionaire dies in a freak accident during a space training simulation, Elsbeth suspects a fellow magnate and wannabe astronaut with a grudge named Neal is responsible.

“Also, Elsbeth’s day is turned upside down when she is reunited with a former colleague from Chicago.”

The space training station is, as Captain Wagner (Wendell Pierce) says in the promo, “For Private citizens.” So, right away, we know we will have some eccentric, rich characters.

While they can be unbearable in real life, those over-the-top characters, with their overwrought dialogue and lack of relatability, are always a good time.

However, what can’t be missed is the mention of “a former colleague from Chicago.” Seems like we’re finally getting a crossover from The Good Wife universe.

I’d say it’s about time, but every episode of Elsbeth features an actor from The Good Wife or The Good Fight. However, this will be the first character cameo from the shared universe.

Elsbeth Might Have A Character On Its Hands Even Whackier Than The Titular Character

Speaking of actors from the shared universe, we have a rare occasion on our hands. The actor, and probably murderer, from the promo talking to Elsbeth has not appeared on The Good Wife or The Good Fight.

Now, there is a twist, but it’s true. Robert Riggle is brand new to the shared universe, which is surprising given that the actor has been in the industry for almost thirty years.

I was starting to wonder if there was an actor left who hadn’t been in The Goof Wife franchise. I guess Elsbeth is full of surprises.

However, you likely know the actor and retired United States Marine officer’s face. He’s known for roles in Curb Your Enthusiasm, Happy Endings, and Modern Family.

You’re not alone if you’re seeing a trend in Riggle’s acting choices. The funny man is known for his loud and obnoxious characters, which he is a little too talented at portraying.

But good for him knowing his strengths and playing to them. We might have a character on our hands even whackier than Elsbeth. Emphasis on the “might.”

Then again, the series could be trying to pull a fast one on audiences.

Elsbeth Could Be Pulling A Fast One On Fans With Two Possible Killers For Season 2 Episode 2

Even though he isn’t featured in the promo, a fresh face is in the photos for Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2. Whoever this character is, he isn’t too hard on the eyes.

Elsbeth gets comfortable with John Behlmann’s character in an episodic still. I don’t blame her either because, damn, that man is handsome.

While not as experienced or well-known as Riggle, Behlmann has garnered a few substantial acting credits.

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One of them happens to be Dr. Mann on The Good Wife Season 1 Episode 18. So, really, we have two possible murder suspects. We won’t know until we watch Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2.

John Behlmann has had roles in The Gilded Age, Riverdale, and Madam Secretary. He’s a regular jack-of-all-trades. Let’s hope he brings a little magic, especially to Elsbeth.

Come to think of it, Elsbeth hasn’t ventured into the dating world much. She made a passing comment in Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 4 but has stayed actively single since.

Also, let’s not forget that despite being mentioned numerous times during Elsbeth Season 1, the titular character’s son, Teddy, has still not been seen.

I’m not saying he’s a bad son, but I can’t imagine what he could have against someone as sweet as Elsbeth. She never has anything negative to say about him, even though he never calls.

For now, we can enjoy another incredibly written and acted episode of Elsbeth. We have space murders and mysterious misters making appearances.

Oh, and the best part. Gonzo, that lovable pooch, is making another cameo. Honestly, give the canine cutie his own animated animal detective show. I’d watch it.

Either way, you know I’ll be glued to my seat watching every incredible second of this fantastic series with all of you.

Now, check out the promo for CBS‘s Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2 below!

Who do you think the mystery person from Chicago is?

Do you think Riggle or Behlmann is the episodic killer?

Please drop a comment below to let me know, and join me again when I bring you more spoilers for Elsbeth!

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The post Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 2 Spoilers: Houston, We Have A Problem appeared first on TV Fanatic.