It’s safe to say the Elsbeth promotors are trying to pull a fast one on its loyal fan base with a promo we know doesn’t begin to scratch the surface. Then again, how could it with a guest appearance from Laurie Metcalf?
If you’re like this TV Fanatic, you were fully expecting some hint of what’s to come from the titular character’s new rival and most significant threat, Judge Milton.
Only a show like Elsbeth could pair a wife and husband for some of the juiciest developments on a show already brimming with quality writing and acting.
At least viewers never have to worry about things going stale or the comedy falling flat. Especially not when they’re bringing in broadcast TV vets known for their perfect comedic timing.
Laurie Metcalf Is Bringing Fifty Years Of Funny To Elsbeth
Through the course of Elsbeth Season 1, there was a parade of murderous guest stars portrayed by actors who had already delved into The Good Wife universe.
It seems that formula is no longer in play. Believe it or not, Laurie Metcalf has yet to debut in this universe. It’s rather shocking when you consider the actor has been in the biz for fifty years.
That’s not an exaggeration. The woman has literally been acting for five freaking decades, having taken on some truly iconic roles because of the actor’s versatility to step into almost any project.
For me, she will always be the psychotic and unhinged Debbie Salt, aka Mrs. Loomis, aka Billy’s mom from Scream 2. It took me years before I realized that was her.
However, you might know her from her less homicidal roles in shows like The Big Bang Theory, Roseanne, or The Conners. The list is practically endless, so brush up on your IMDb.
Audiences Never Truly Know What To Expect With A Show Like Elsbeth
At the start of the promo, Laurie’s character can be heard telling Elsbeth and Kaya, “Elsbeth, I thought that was you, and then I thought, who else could it be dressed as a member of The Lollipop Guild?” Iconic read.
That had Metcalf’s perfect comedic timing all over it. And, just to be thorough, I refreshed my memory of The Lollipop Guild, and I can confirm that there are similarities.
Hilarious comments aside, there seems to be a familiarity between the characters. However, as most of us are well aware by now, TV promos tend to play fast and loose with what they choose to show.
It’s likely that these few seconds of the episode were pulled from somewhere in the middle after Elsbeth starts suspecting the character.
After Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 7, the series will lean back on its campy heels for more laughs amid all the drama still swirling around Elsbeth Tascioni.
I just need to throw this out there: What the heck is going on with the case in Chicago? I love this series, but let’s wrap up the loose ends. Is it driving anyone else crazy?
Elsbeth Dips Her Undoubtedly Pink Toes Back Into The World Of TV
The official synopsis for Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 8 reads: “Elsbeth is thrown into the world of television after the showrunner of a long-running police procedural is brutally murdered in his office.
“Although it appears to be the act of a disgruntled fan, she begins to suspect the show’s longtime star, Regina Coburn (Laurie Metcalf), who yearns for artistic fulfillment.
“Meanwhile, Judge Milton (Michael Emerson) continues to be a thorn in Elsbeth’s side.”
That is a lot of story to throw at a winter finale, but Elsbeth has never been one for subtlety. That said, this is hardly Elsbeth’s first introduction to the television world.
As fans of the show will recall, Elsbeth Season 1 Episode 3 had the titular character stomping around a reality TV show called “Lavish Ladies.”
The series has even made nods to the in-universe show through billboards and even a sweatshirt that Kaya was seen wearing in “Elsbeth’s Eleven.”
However, since we get the hilarious Laurie Metcalf in a role as a garbage celebrity, I am willing to forget the past in favor of what the writers have in store.
Judge Milton Crawford Could Be The Kind Of Antagonist Audiences Love To Hate
Considering that Judge Milton is not at the center of the plot for this episode but is still referenced, we can ascertain that the character will be around for a while.
Typically, when a rival character ruffles the feathers of a protagonist, audiences jump on board to see the villainous character taken down.
However, a show occasionally introduces a character you love to hate because of how interesting they make the story.
For example, Lana Parrilla’s Evil Queen, Regina, was the breakout fan favorite from Once Upon a Time despite being the series’ main antagonist for the first couple of seasons.
I think it’s safe to say that may be the case with Michael Emerson’s Judge Milton Crawford. He really stirred the pot with Elsbeth, and it looks like he isn’t done with the Chicago attorney yet.
It also helps that Emerson and Carrie Preston are married. In truth, the immense amount of chemistry elevates the drama between the characters.
Since “Toil and Trouble” is the winter finale, with Elsbeth returning in early 2025, the episode could end on just about any note.
You’re in good company if you expect a cliffhanger or twist, but a show like Elsbeth is so successful because it is unpredictable. For all we know, the episode could end with Elsbeth burning her bucket hats, but that’s just wishful thinking.
Still, whatever the series decides to go with, it will establish the story for the second half of Elsbeth Season 2. Honestly, how in the world could this series get any better than it already is?
I ask that, knowing full well that the show will undoubtedly make me eat my words by throwing yet another curveball at the plot. I, for one, did not have Teddy debuting on my Elsbeth Season 2 bingo card.
It’s doubtful he’ll be making another appearance in “Toil and Trouble,” but hopefully, Elsbeth’s adorable son doesn’t stay gone for too long. The same goes for the series itself.
For now, check out the promo for CBS’s Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 8 below!
What do you think of Michael Emerson’s Judge Milton Crawford?
Was Elsbeth’s son, Teddy, how you imagined he’d be?
Please drop a comment below to let me know what you think, and join me again when I review this episode of Elsbeth!
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![[Spoiler] Shot, Wes vs. Csonka](https://www.tvinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/fbi-international-408-vo-wes-1014x570.jpg "[Spoiler] Shot, Wes vs. Csonka")
