The third season of “Elsbeth” opens with a bang, featuring Stephen Colbert as a guest star in the premiere episode. Colbert plays Scotty Bristol, a late-night talk show host whose unpopularity among his staff sets the stage for a darkly comedic murder mystery. Joining him are Amy Sedaris and Andy Richter, both of whom contribute to the episode’s rich tapestry of interpersonal dynamics and long-standing grudges.
As the episode unfolds, viewers are introduced to the chaotic environment of Scotty’s show, “Way Late With Scotty Bristol.” Executive producer and head writer Laurel Hammond-Muntz, played by Sedaris, navigates the frustrations of a team that feels undervalued, especially as Scotty dismisses their creative efforts with a flourish—literally shredding their scripts in a comically sinister industrial shredder affectionately dubbed “Mickey II.” This shredder serves as a metaphor for Scotty’s destructive influence on his team and foreshadows the ensuing chaos.
The narrative thickens with the introduction of Mickey Muntz, Scotty’s sidekick, played by Richter, who is married to Laurel. Their shared history, rooted in an improv group from Seattle, is tinged with rivalry and unresolved tension. This backdrop complicates their relationships, particularly as Scotty’s harsh treatment of Mickey escalates to the point of causing health issues, prompting Laurel to take matters into her own hands when Scotty denies Mickey a much-needed break.
Adding a layer of complexity, we meet Elsbeth Tascioni, portrayed by Carrie Preston, who arrives at the scene as her jetlagged self, having just returned from a trip to Scotland. Her character’s knack for solving mysteries is immediately put to the test as she finds herself embroiled in what initially appears to be an unfortunate accident involving Scotty and his shredder. However, Elsbeth’s instincts tell her otherwise, leading her to investigate further alongside a new patrol officer, Grace Hackett, played by Lindsay Mendez.
The episode cleverly employs the classic “howcatchem” style of murder mystery, reminiscent of iconic shows like “Columbo” and the recent revival of “Poker Face.” Yet, what sets “Elsbeth” apart is its blend of humor and character-driven storytelling. The chemistry among the cast, particularly between Colbert and Sedaris, harkens back to their previous collaborations, such as “Strangers With Candy,” and adds a layer of nostalgia that fans appreciate.
As the season progresses, it becomes clear that the creators, Michelle and Robert King, along with showrunner Jonathan Tolins, are steering “Elsbeth” back to its roots—focusing more on the episodic mysteries while maintaining threads of character development. Last season’s emphasis on overarching storylines sometimes detracted from the individual cases, but the current season promises a more balanced approach. This shift is crucial, especially as fans have grown attached to the dynamics between Elsbeth and her partner Kaya, played by Carra Patterson, who now appears less frequently.
The investigative team around Elsbeth is also evolving. Capt. Wagner’s growing trust in Elsbeth suggests that she can handle the challenges ahead without constant supervision, though fans will miss the camaraderie she shared with Kaya. The introduction of Grace Hackett as a patrol partner hints at new dynamics that may enrich the narrative.
Ultimately, “Elsbeth” Season 3 seems poised to deliver the engaging mysteries that viewers crave, with each episode promising to explore both the intricacies of crime and the complexities of its characters. As the season unfolds, fans will likely appreciate the return to a format that allows for both humor and suspense.
In conclusion, “Elsbeth” Season 3 is a must-watch for mystery enthusiasts. It strikes a balance between character development and plot intricacies, ensuring that each episode captivates its audience. With a stellar cast and a renewed focus on the essence of storytelling, this season is set to be a rewarding experience for both new viewers and long-time fans.
