Elsbeth: Quirky Attorney Tackles New York Crimes in Ongoing CBS Series
New York, 14 January 2026 – Elsbeth, the CBS crime drama series, continues to captivate viewers with its blend of humour and mystery. Starring Carrie Preston as the eccentric attorney Elsbeth Tascioni, the show follows her unique approach to solving high-profile murders alongside the NYPD. As a spin-off from The Good Wife and The Good Fight, it has garnered praise for its witty dialogue and standout performances.
Overview of the Series
Elsbeth premiered on CBS in February 2024 and has since aired two full seasons, with a third season underway since October 2025. Created by Robert and Michelle King, the series employs a “reverse mystery” format, where viewers see the crime unfold before watching Elsbeth unravel the perpetrator’s mistakes. This structure, reminiscent of classic shows like Columbo, highlights Elsbeth’s sharp intellect and quirky personality. The programme is produced by CBS Studios and King Size Productions, and it streams on Paramount+.
Key Cast and Characters
Carrie Preston reprises her role as Elsbeth Tascioni, bringing warmth and eccentricity to the lead. Wendell Pierce plays Captain C.W. Wagner, her NYPD colleague, while Carra Patterson portrays Officer Kaya Blanke in the first two seasons. Recurring cast includes Gloria Reuben as Claudia Payne, Molly Price as Detective Jackie Donnelly, and guest stars such as Nathan Lane and Alyssa Milano. Season 3 introduces new faces like Stephen Colbert and Julia Fox, adding fresh dynamics to the ensemble.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Creators | Robert King and Michelle King |
| Network | CBS (also available on Paramount+) |
| Seasons | 3 (as of January 2026) |
| Episodes | 40 (total aired) |
| Runtime | 43 minutes per episode |
| Genre | Crime drama, comedy |
| Rating | TV-PG |
| Premiere Date | 29 February 2024 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Elsbeth about?
Elsbeth follows attorney Elsbeth Tascioni, who uses her unconventional methods to assist the NYPD in solving murders among New York’s elite. The series focuses on her unique observations and interactions with suspects and colleagues.
Is Elsbeth a spin-off?
Yes, it is a spin-off from The Good Wife and The Good Fight, where Carrie Preston originally portrayed the character.
Where can I watch Elsbeth?
The series airs on CBS and is available for streaming on Paramount+.
How many seasons are there?
As of January 2026, three seasons have been released, with season 3 ongoing.