SPOILER ALERT: This story contains significant plot developments from the first episode of “Elsbeth,” airing on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.
On “Elsbeth,” Carrie Preston reprises her Emmy-winning role as the eccentrically shrewd attorney Elsbeth Tascioni, a beloved character from the CBS drama “The Good Wife” and its Paramount+ spin-off “The Good Fight.” Known for her scatterbrained behavior that disarmed courtroom adversaries and clients alike, Elsbeth consistently surprised everyone with her ingenious legal tactics.
Created by Robert and Michelle King, all three shows are connected, but “Elsbeth” takes a different approach as a crime procedural. Elsbeth is relocated from Chicago to New York City as part of a government consent decree requiring a lawyer to observe NYPD activities. In a similar style to “Columbo,” the audience is informed upfront about the culprit, such as a well-respected theater director (played by Stephen Moyer) who commits a crime to conceal an affair, and then watches Elsbeth tackle the case.
In a conversation with Variety, Preston discusses how Peter Falk’s iconic TV detective inspired Elsbeth’s character, her approach to portraying Elsbeth’s daffy intelligence, and the absence of cameos from “The Good Wife” and “The Good Fight” characters.
Courtesy of Elizabeth Fisher/CBS
How was Elsbeth first described to you for “The Good Wife”?
Robert King initially described Elsbeth as a female version of Colombo. The structure of “Elsbeth” is inspired by “Colombo,” presenting Elsbeth as an unconventional character who takes people by surprise.
Did you rewatch Elsbeth’s first episode?
Recently revisiting the first episode after 14 years, Preston found it fascinating to see her growth as she embodied the character. The evolution of Elsbeth’s portrayal over the years contributed to finding the right balance and flow for the character.
Elsbeth makes these hairpin turns of thought from something that seems frivolous to life-or-death serious. How do you find your way into that?
In the initial scripts, Preston honed in on the pauses written in the dialogue, exploring the internal thought process behind Elsbeth’s unexpected shifts. Creating a mental map of Elsbeth’s thoughts and actions added depth and surprise to her character.
How did the Kings broach the idea of doing a spinoff to you?
The idea for a spinoff originated towards the end of “The Good Wife” based on fan suggestions. Preston’s involvement in “The Good Fight” led to further exploration of Elsbeth’s character before the concept of a spinoff centered around her solidified.
How has shifting from being a recurring character to the center of the show affected your approach?
Playing Elsbeth consistently in every episode allows Preston to delve deeper into her character, offering unique storylines and settings. The shift from sporadic appearances to a central role provides a better understanding of Elsbeth’s complexities and quirks.
Will we see more aspects of her personal life on this show? Elsbeth has talked about her son before.
Elsbeth’s personal life, particularly her son named Teddy, is more prominent in the series. While the focus remains on solving crimes, glimpses of Elsbeth’s personal struggles, such as her divorce, are explored. The show maintains a balance between the crime-solving aspect and Elsbeth’s personal narrative.
CBS
You directed episodes of the TNT drama “Claws,” on which you had a supporting role. Are you directing on “Elsbeth”?
Preston is not directing on “Elsbeth” currently, as she prefers to focus on playing the role of Elsbeth without the added pressure of directing herself. While she doesn’t rule out the possibility for future seasons, for now, she is dedicated to portraying Elsbeth to the best of her ability.
The premiere of “Elsbeth” emphasizes its setting in New York City. Is this a nod to the fact that “The Good Wife” and “The Good Fight” were shot in New York?
The emphasis on New York City as a character in “Elsbeth” reflects the desire to authentically showcase the city, contrasting the previous setting of Chicago. The decision to anchor the show in New York reinforces its unique identity and setting.
The pilot teases the character Cary Agos, from “The Good Wife,” as a potential replacement NYPD monitor. Could we see Matt Czuchry on the show?
The mention of Cary Agos serves as a subtle nod to fans, but the show aims to stand on its own without heavy connections to “The Good Wife” or “The Good Fight.” While the possibility of crossover exists, there are no plans for recurring characters from the previous shows. The focus remains on Elsbeth’s journey in the new setting.
The premiere unveils Elsbeth’s covert task of investigating NYPD Chief Wagner, played by Wendell Pierce. Will this thread be explored throughout the season?
The investigation of Chief Wagner is an ongoing storyline that adds intrigue and layers to the show. While each episode features a standalone crime, the thread involving Chief Wagner provides continuity and depth to the narrative.
Does the episodic nature of the show influence your portrayal of Elsbeth to cater to viewers who may not watch every episode?
Preston adapts her performance to fit the episodic format, incorporating questioning and police procedural elements without losing the essence of Elsbeth. The juxtaposition of Elsbeth’s colorful personality in the structured world of police procedurals adds a unique dynamic to her character.
This interview has been edited and condensed.