CBS is gearing up for the return of its hit series Elsbeth, which is set to debut its second season on October 17 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. For the second season, the network has announced the addition of four notable guest stars to the cast: Vanessa Williams (Ugly Betty), Brittany O’Grady (The White Lotus), Pamela Adlon (Better Things), and Rob Riggle (The Hangover). In addition, actor-director Aisha Tyler will step behind the camera to direct an episode this season.
Elsbeth follows the quirky and brilliant attorney Elsbeth Tascioni, played by Carrie Preston, as she uses her unique legal perspective to assist the NYPD in solving high-profile crimes. The character, originally introduced in The Good Wife and later appearing in The Good Fight, quickly became a fan favorite due to her unconventional methods and sharp wit.
CBS renewed Elsbeth for a second season earlier this year after the first four episodes of its debut season. The series, created by the acclaimed duo Robert and Michelle King, also stars Wendell Pierce and Carra Patterson in leading roles.
In season two, Elsbeth is forced to confront mistakes from her past as her life in New York becomes increasingly complicated. Showrunner Jonathan Tolins teased, “Elsbeth’s new life in New York hits a snag as unresolved issues from her time in Chicago resurface. Officer Blanke (Carra Patterson) and Captain Wagner (Wendell Pierce) also face turmoil in their precinct, with the arrival of a new lieutenant bringing more tension.”
As for the guest stars, each brings a distinct and intriguing storyline. Vanessa Williams will portray Roselyn, a stylish Fifth Avenue VIP who embarks on a dangerous jewel heist after facing financial ruin. Brittany O’Grady will play Mackenzie “Mac” Andrews, a former child star turned party girl, who wakes up after a wild Halloween night unsure if she may have committed a murder.
Pamela Adlon takes on the role of Chef Veev, a celebrity chef whose rage management issues spiral out of control after a mishap in her high-end restaurant threatens her business. Rob Riggle portrays Neal Dorsey, a billionaire with a grudge whose desire to prove himself to his peers turns deadly.
With its mix of dark humor, engaging mysteries, and compelling performances, Elsbeth has cemented itself as a standout in CBS’s lineup. The show, produced by CBS Studios, counts Robert and Michelle King, Liz Glotzer, and Jonathan Tolins among its executive producers.