[Caution: The following includes BIG SPOILERS for the]
Elsbeth
The Season 2 finale titled “Ramen Holiday.” ]
He had it coming! OK, no, he didn’t. Not this time, at least. An inmate was murdered in the prison where Elsbeth Tascioni (
Carrie Preston
) was taking place at the
Elsbeth
The season 2 finale will be on Thursday, May 8, on
CBS
And this situation made Elsbeth feel quite comfortable despite the unforeseen turn of events. Being tasked with solving a murder kept the attorney busy as she reunited with eight individuals she had previously apprehended during the past two seasons.
Stephen Moyer
,
Retta
,
André De Shields
,
Alyssa Milano
,
Gina Gershon
,
Arian Moayed
,
Elizabeth Lail
, and
Mary-Louise Parker
All made a return in their guest starring capacities for the final episode and performed.
their rendition of
Chicago
‘s “Cell Block Tango,”
In which the “Suspect Tango” series appeared within the episode. The conclusion also included a fresh face as a guest star.
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
‘s
Donna Lynne Champlin
as “Mama Martin,” the killer of the week who took out Moyer’s Alex Modarian.
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In season one, the focus was on corrupt police officers. Season two shifted to depict dishonest judges. However, Martin’s arrest does not signify an indication of this pattern.
Elsbeth
Season 3 will focus on corrupt prison administration.
I believe we’ll revisit the lives and murders of the wealthy and renowned
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Season 3, showrunner
Jonathan Tolins
tells TV Insider, saying Elsbeth’s prison stint was “a one-off, but we are not done looking at what happens to some of our people after Elsbeth seems to be finished with them in their original episode.”
Another storyline that’s changing but not done forever: Kaya Blanke’s time at the NYPD. The
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Season 2 finale marked
Carra Patterson’s last episode as a series regular
Kaya has been sent to DC to prepare for a specialized task force following her second promotion this season. Patterson will return as a recurring guest star from here on out.
By the end of the episode, Elsbeth was released from jail after Captain Wagner intervened.
Wendell Pierce
and Officer Chandler’s
Ethan Slater
) blackmailing of
John Carroll Lynch
His character—a judge who was friends with the murdered Milton Crawford—
Michael Emerson
He incarcerated Elsbeth for her minor offense of harassing a witness due to her closeness to Crawford’s murder. Just in time for Kaya’s celebration at the police station, Elsbeth was released from jail where she delivered an emotional farewell address. Before this public event, Elsbeth and Kaya shared a personal moment to exchange heartfelt farewells.
Preston indicates that many genuine emotions towards Patterson were evident in the last few scenes featuring Elsbeth and Kaya. Tolins mentions that Kaya will not be recast. Instead, they might utilize their uniformed officers similarly to how they deploy their detectives: “We could have an impressive ensemble where viewers look forward to seeing all members, even though it may vary from episode to episode,” he explains.
Here, Carrie Preston and Jonathan Tolins dissect the topic.
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In a combined interview with TV Insider, discuss the season 2 finale and hint at what’s to come in season 3.
You shot in New York. Were any members from the Chicago Broadway production part of making “Suspect Tango”?
Jonathan Tolins:
Oh, no. But I believe Alyssa Milano once performed on Broadway as Roxie.
Carrie Preston:
Our choreographer, Susan Misner, is very much a part of that whole Fosse world and
Chicago
movie. But [we were] careful not to do any of the Fosse choreography. She came up with her own work take on it with the actors involved, and she’s an actor herself, so she really knows how to work with actors of varying different skill sets when it comes to musicals. I can attest to that because I had to do a dancing number in Season 1 from
Chicago
, the “Hot Honey Rag,” and she choreographed that as well. So it is a very organic, character-based way in which she works, and she did the same thing with all of these wonderful actors that brought the “Cell Block Tango” to life for our finale.
So is a
Chicago
a musical segment will occur in each season of the show
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now?
Tolins:
It wasn’t intentional.
Laughs
I suppose it’s due to the fact that our show also revolves around killers and prisons.
Plus, Elsbeth hails from Chicago, making it just right.
Tolins:
We’ll need to make our way through this. We’ll start with “Mr. Cellophane.” We’ll test them all out. Alternatively, we could progress to different musicals.
Carrie, can you share your experience of being on set for this film? Did the rehearsals bring some enjoyment? I bet there were plenty of amusing moments that could make up an entertaining outtakes reel.
Preston:
We create an episode for
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In about eight or nine days. Since my character had such extensive involvement, I filmed scenes without them [the guest stars], even though they were busy rehearsing at another stage. Therefore, I didn’t have the chance to see the routine until the actual day of filming.
When I arrived, it felt as though it was opening night for me. It was genuinely enjoyable. Then Susie mentioned, “Now we have to include you.” So I smoothly integrated myself into their ongoing activities, and everything fell into place seamlessly. Our director, Lionel Coleman, brought numerous fantastic concepts to the table, and he had a clear vision for filming it alongside our entire amazing team. The way everything converged was almost magical. We utilized the complete duration provided to us to accomplish this. Although I haven’t reviewed the finished product yet, watching everyone collaborate made it an undoubtedly delightful experience.
Tolins:
I believe the schedule allotted six hours for completing the entire task, and we only slightly exceeded that time.
Throughout the entire season, Elsbeth has faced threats from an unscrupulous judge named Judge Crawford. Now, this judge’s associate has unjustly put her behind bars. Surprisingly, however, she appears fearless while incarcerated. On the contrary, she exudes confidence. Carrie, could you explain why that might be?
Preston:
Elsbeth is someone who consistently takes initiative. Even towards individuals like murderers, she assumes good intentions, regardless of whether this stance benefits her more than it harms. When inside a correctional facility, surrounded by guards and various constraints, Elsbeth understands that despite potential animosity from those incarcerated—people who believe their imprisonment is due to her actions—they still hold her in high regard. While perhaps not exactly loving her, they certainly find aspects worthy of admiration about her character. We emphasized this aspect since it allowed her to form connections essential for uncovering the truth behind Alex Modarian’s murder. Had everyone despised her, getting close enough to investigate would have been impossible; thus, fostering mutual respect became crucial for solving the case together.
Tolins:
Initially, she appears quite frightened upon arrival as everyone seems somewhat intimidating. However, everything changes after the murder occurs; suddenly, she gains a clear objective and a sense of direction, which simplifies matters considerably for Elsbeth since her focus becomes laser-sharp.
She has returned to her familiar environment, despite these circumstances being unforeseen once more. In this scenario, John Carroll Lynch portrayed Michael Emerson’s attorney.
Evil
, and now he’s advocating for him once more both as a friend and a judge.
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Is he the replacement for Crawford? Will we see him more often?
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Season 3?
Tolins:
Well, Captain Wagner has stuff on him, so I don’t know. I don’t know. We know that he hired Chloe, the high-priced escort, played by
Jordana Brewster
In Season 2 Episode 13, Lynch proves to be an outstanding performer. It was fortunate to have secured his talents. Only time will tell how it goes.
Preston:
It was so enjoyable for him that he wished to come solely to film that one incredible scene.
In season one, we saw stories about dishonest police officers. The second season focused on unscrupulous judges. With Donna Lynn Champlin’s character appearing in upcoming seasons, does this suggest that season three might delve into corrupt prison wardens or perhaps explore the entire prison system as a whole? Similar to what Elsbeth noted at the end of the series, affluent inmates enjoyed greater liberties and advantages inside the detention center.
Tolins:
I believe we’ll return to exploring the lives and deaths of the wealthy and renowned. While this specific [episode] might have been a standalone, we aren’t finished examining what occurs to some individuals following Elsbeth appears to move past them in their initial episode. Throughout the series, we’ve extensively discussed how numerous figures will likely never experience genuine incarceration or receive justice. Their connections, wealth, and myriad methods for postponing consequences ensure that this theme will persist. Despite our affection for our stunning prison set, which took considerable effort to construct, our program generally remains within more luxurious settings.
Delia Kirby [
Meredith Holzman
]
killed Crawford openly during daytime when numerous people were around, among them Elsbeth. At the close of this season, Elsbeth experiences a poignant scene as she mourns for Delia’s future and her own involvement leading up to the act of killing him. To what extent will the events involving Crawford and Delia have repercussions in the upcoming season?
Tolins:
There will be repercussions, but I believe it’s quite a straightforward matter. She was present and witnessed committing the act, fully aware of the potential outcomes. She claimed to be a woman who had nothing more to lose. This makes for a rather sad tale for her. I doubt this situation will evolve into covering the trial of Delia Kirby; I think that chapter is closed. However, I do sense that how that entire episode impacts Elsbeth—and the manner in which others view Elsbeth due to their perception of her involvement—will persist.
Carrie, how has this affected Elsbeth’s perspective on justice? She has consistently been clear-headed about right and wrong, but how has this situation unsettled her? For Delia, though, what she did might have had different implications.
was
Crawford truly turned her life completely around.
Preston:
Sure, and she saw no escape route. However, Elsbeth did find one. Elsbeth felt certain that she would obtain the necessary proof, which indeed happened. Yet when the judge used his influence to dismiss the case entirely—leaving no trace due to his connections—it devastated Elsbeth. This setback plunges her into a spiritual dilemma: What’s even the purpose? Even after putting in all this effort and doing everything correctly, only for it to end badly, why bother at all? Captain Wagner reassures her with “The point is simply to make an attempt.” Those words become her anchor amidst uncertainty. Still, she feels rattled by these events. Throughout the show, she seeks redemption from past misdeeds in Chicago, where she defended numerous despicable individuals who returned to wreak further havoc upon release. Her conscience has been gnawed at by guilt over those actions. Hence, in her current journey, she aims earnestly towards making amends; yet understands fully well that perfection isn’t possible, much as real-life imperfections aren’t either.
Despite her reservations about how incorrect she believes it to be, does Elsbeth comprehend the reasons behind Delia’s actions?
Preston:
Well, the thing that I love about Elsbeth and I love about the writing is that Elsbeth always understands why they would do it. She just doesn’t agree with that choice. But she gets herself so into the mind of the killers in order to catch them and bring them to justice. In the case of Delia, it makes sense why she would do it. But the first thing that Elsbeth says to her after she kills him is, “We would’ve gotten him, we would’ve gotten him.” And she believes that. It’s just so heartbreaking for her that Delia didn’t believe that. Elsbeth would’ve gone back to the drawing board and tried to figure out another way to take this guy down.
I’ve seen fans online wonder if Elsbeth was wearing a wire during that last exchange with Crawford, and that’s how she was going to nab him. Was she?
Tolins:
If only. Part of that story also is, we wanted to acknowledge that things don’t always go the way we want them to. You have to keep trying. There’s a big debate in many parts of our lives now about, well, what is the point of playing by the rules when it feels like the other side isn’t? Because once you slip in that direction, then everything’s lost. We’re a fun show and a procedural and all that, but we also want to tap into stuff that we’re all feeling about living in 2025.
This marked Carra Patterson’s final appearance as a main cast member. When did you become aware of her transition to appearing as a recurring guest star?
Tolins:
For some time now, we’ve had this storyline figured out, knowing that the character would reach a point where this could happen. However, we’re cautious about making it seem overly significant since she will be returning. This doesn’t mean the character is exiting the show; instead, they’ll appear occasionally rather than daily. We were thrilled at the prospect of showing how this character pursues her dreams, faces challenges, and ultimately accomplishes them, eventually becoming a detective with fresh prospects ahead. It has been planned carefully over an extended period, yet maintaining her connection remains crucial to both the series and the character herself. Despite everything, she continues to play a vital role within the show.
Elsbeth
.
Carrie, you share some poignant moments with Carra during the closing scenes of this episode when Elsbeth and Kaya share a personal goodbye. Could you discuss shooting that last scene together and what you both aimed to convey regarding the deep bond between these two characters?
Preston:
Since Carra and I grew very close, performing that particular scene wasn’t an issue at all. All we needed to do was appear before one another and gaze into our eyes; this naturally led us to shed tears and experience deep emotions stemming from everything we’d developed between us. This made the entire process incredibly rewarding. Additionally, Jon’s script was simply exquisite. Our filming took place on Carra’s final scheduled day on set, which coincidentally turned out to be her last appearance as well. Many recurring guest actors joined us then, adding a sense of unity akin to being part of a real family. There was genuine sentimentality involved, as we paid tribute not only to her character but also to Carra herself, making the whole event deeply touching—an occasion we’re certain will remain cherished forever.
During the final goodbye scene, when you delivered the speech at the police station towards the end, it appeared that some genuine emotions from Carrie might have surfaced. Could you share what was going through your mind and heart as you wrapped up this part of the story?
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Season 2?
Preston:
Elsbeth seems melancholic about not seeing Kaya daily, yet genuinely hopes for her success, love, and happiness in this new chapter. Knowing that this journey aligns with a long-held aspiration, similar to how Jon described it, makes her feel that witnessing someone achieve their dreams overshadows any sorrow. Likewise, I felt both supportive toward Carra and aware that our parting would leave me nostalgic. We plan to share a meal together soon, looking forward to all the incredible opportunities awaiting her. Finding such similarities enriches my ability to bring scenes vividly to life from personal experiences.
After Kaya was promoted, you added several new NYPD comrades for Elsbeth this season. Will Ethan Slater keep his role as Elsbeth’s new partner into Season 3? In your plans for the show’s continuation, do you see her needing a consistent partner officer?
Tolins:
I definitely don’t want to add another character who would simply replicate Kaya’s role in Elsbeth’s story. Given that Elsbeth isn’t a detective herself, she always needs to work alongside an officer in uniform since she cannot visit those locations alone. Therefore, we’ve begun bringing in fresh faces. For instance, B portrayed Nikki Reynolds and Ethan Slater took on the part of Chandler. We plan to continue this approach. Ethan has been fantastic, but due to his packed schedule, we might not get to feature him as frequently as we’d like. Instead, we’ll allow relationships between characters to evolve naturally over time to observe who becomes most prominent alongside Elsbeth. Possibly, similar to how we utilize our detectives from a robust ensemble cast—where seeing anyone could excite us—we might start featuring our uniformed officers regularly too; where viewers look forward to encountering different ones across episodes without knowing precisely which one they’ll encounter next.
Elsbeth
, Premier Episode of Season 3, Autumn 2025, CBS
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