After Elsbeth’s Twisty Halloween Episode, Here’s What The EP Told Us About ‘More Surprising Things’ On The Way

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As a seasoned gamer who’s seen more episodes of TV detectives than I care to count, let me tell you that the latest twist in Elsbeth is as refreshing as a cold brew on a hot summer day. The writers have shaken things up with their unconventional storytelling, keeping us guessing and engaged, much like how Peter Falk’s Columbo used to do.

Spoilers ahead for the Halloween episode of Elsbeth Season 2.

In autumn 2024, Elsbeth joined the Halloween spirit by starring in a special episode titled “Devil’s Night.” This episode, unlike others, featured Carrie Preston dressed up in an end-to-end iconic costume. What made this episode stand out was not just Elsbeth’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s-inspired outfit but also its unconventional narrative. Unlike typical episodes that reveal the murderer early on, viewers were left guessing along with the investigators for most of the hour. Executive producer Jonathan Tolins hinted to Riley Utley from TopMob during New York Comic Con that there are more unexpected twists coming our way.

Jonathan Tolins, who earlier analyzed the Season 2 premiere’s suspenseful ending, has given some insights into the strategies for the ongoing second season. In an interview with TopMob, when asked about designing a storyline that deviates from the usual on Elsbeth, he disclosed: (You can catch up on the entire first season by subscribing to Paramount+.)

Essentially, from last year’s finale onwards, we’re deviating from our usual format, introducing new twists to prevent the audience from feeling like they’ve seen it all before. In that particular episode, a murder occurs, but the story isn’t fully revealed, leaving you to piece things together alongside Elsbeth. Future episodes will also include unexpected elements. I won’t spoil anything, but we’ve been enjoying the creative freedom. Previously, I thought Columbo episodes were always repetitive, but upon closer look, they too played with conventions and kept viewers guessing.

Tolins didn’t reveal much about the unexpected elements that are coming up, but it seems like viewers shouldn’t expect a traditional, week-to-week format for Elsbeth. Taking inspiration from Columbo is promising; indeed, Columbo’s lead character, played by Peter Falk, has become a pop culture legend and certainly earned a spot among the smartest TV detectives.

After Elsbeth announced her honeymoon with her husband during the Halloween episode, it leaves me curious if he’ll ever appear on the show again, similar to how Mrs. Columbo was never shown. While her ex-husband made occasional appearances on The Good Wife, neither The Good Wife nor The Good Fight are essential viewing for Elsbeth. (Carrie Preston’s real-life husband Michael Emerson will be joining the cast in December.)

It’s yet to be determined whether Elsbeth will produce intriguing episodes more quickly or spread them across Season 2, but the upcoming installment seems entertaining and maintains the series’ pattern of featuring well-known actors in pivotal roles. Following Nathan Lane, Vanessa Williams is set to appear next. Here’s a sneak peek at the next episode:

Titled “Elsbeth’s Eleven,” I’m eagerly anticipating this episode, hoping for some playful references to the movie “Ocean’s Eleven.” While Carrie Preston’s wardrobe may not mimic the film like her Audrey Hepburn costume did in “Devil’s Night” on Halloween, a nod or two wouldn’t disappoint me. Don’t forget to catch new episodes of “Elsbeth” Season 2 every Thursday at 10 p.m. ET on CBS, immediately following “Matlock” at 9 p.m. ET. Or stream them using a Paramount+ subscription!

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2024-11-01 08:08