A Comprehensive Guide to Carrie Preston’s Elsbeth and Its Star-Studded Cameos
Carrie Preston‘s portrayal of Elsbeth Tascioni on the CBS spinoff has given her the chance to reconnect with several well-known personalities, featuring cameos from A-listers and returning favorites from The Good Wife.
Initially introduced on The Good Wife and The Good Fight, Elsbeth is back in her own series as a lawyer who has effectively taken on the role of a detective, assisting the NYPD in various investigations. Her eccentric and unconventional methods lead to insightful observations that contribute significantly to solving crimes.
Premiering in 2024, Elsbeth also features Wendell Pierce and Carra Patterson. The show’s procedural format allows for new characters in each episode who require Elsbeth’s expertise — many of whom may look quite familiar.
For instance, Preston’s husband in real life, Michael Emerson, appeared in season 2 as a judge whose actions raise Elsbeth’s suspicions. This guest appearance provided them the opportunity to portray characters that are notably different from their actual relationship.
“Elsbeth finds herself on the jury for a murder trial where the proceedings appear dubious. Can she confront the judge and restore order to the courtroom?” the duo shared in a joint announcement to Us Weekly in December 2024. “We’ve had such a blast waking up together and heading to work playing these courtroom rivals on Elsbeth! It’s a thrilling battle of intellect with lives on the line. Then we get to go home and unwind.”
In addition to Emerson, Elsbeth has featured talents like Stephen Moyer, Jane Krakowski, and others in memorable roles. Keep reading for a comprehensive rundown of every guest star on Elsbeth through its seasons:
Stephen Moyer
The series premiere showcased Preston’s former True Blood co-star as a prestigious drama instructor who is involved in the murder of a student he had a relationship with leading up to the incident.
Jane Krakowski
Elsbeth gives Krakowski the role of a high-powered real estate agent who would go to any lengths to clinch a sale.
Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Ferguson’s character as Skip Mason, the creator of a well-known reality TV show, is undeniably reminiscent of Andy Cohen.
Retta
The actress plays a matchmaker whose duplicity leads to an unexpected murder.
Blair Underwood
In season 1, Underwood appeared as the fictional father and coach of an aspiring tennis champion who resorts to extreme measures to secure a victory for his son.
Gina Gershon
Gershon took on the role of a cosmetic surgeon who doesn’t hesitate to exact revenge — regardless of the consequences.
Keegan-Michael Key
The show gave Key a chance to display his versatility as the CEO of a financial firm who sabotages his daughter’s wedding day.
Laura Benanti
The Tony Award winner not only plays a successful supermodel but also returns in season 2 as a new friend of Elsbeth.
Elizabeth Lail
The second season kicked off with You alum portraying the creator of an app willing to bury her secrets — and a body.
Nathan Lane
Lane had the opportunity to play a former lawyer with an obsession for opera.
Rob Riggle
One of the standout characters in season 2 was portrayed by Riggle, a self-made billionaire driven by revenge against a foe.
Vanessa Williams
In the second season, Williams took on the role of a socialite facing financial difficulties.
Micaela Diamond
Alongside her role in Grotesquerie, Diamond also worked as a detective on Elsbeth.
Michael Emerson
Preston’s spouse joined the cast in a surprising role where they sparred in numerous scenes.
Laurie Metcalf
Metcalf makes her appearance in season 2 as an actress portraying a police officer in a long-running fictional series.
Matthew Broderick and James Wilkie Broderick
In an upcoming episode, Matthew and his son with Sarah Jessica Parker, James, are set to play a father-son duo. Matthew will portray a man who assists Manhattan’s elite in getting their children into prestigious prep schools and colleges, while James will work for his father’s coaching business.
