A Galactic Guest Star? ‘Elsbeth’ Casting Director Claims This Forgotten Star Wars Star Is at the Top of the List for a Season 3 Cameo
Alright, my fellow TV enthusiasts and denizens of a galaxy far, far away! Are you enjoying the delightful quirks and keen observational skills of Elsbeth Tascioni as much as I am? If you’ve been following the whirlwind of charming eccentricities and brilliant deductions that define CBS’s hit procedural Elsbeth, then you know the show has a knack for bringing in absolutely phenomenal guest stars. From seasoned Broadway legends to beloved television faces, each episode boasts a new “perpetrator” for Elsbeth to gleefully unravel. But hold onto your lightsabers, because a recent revelation from the show’s casting director has sent ripples of excitement through the fandom: a “forgotten” Star Wars star is at the very top of their wish list for a Season 3 cameo! This is not just a rumor; it’s a direct quote from the person whose job it is to make these magical casting moments happen. Let’s delve into this thrilling possibility and explore who this mystery Star Wars alum might be and what their appearance could mean for our favorite New York detective!
The Mastermind Behind the Guest Stars: Findley Davidson’s Vision
Before we dive into the speculation, let’s give credit where credit is due. The casting director for Elsbeth, Findley Davidson, is truly a wizard. She has a remarkable talent for identifying actors who can perfectly embody the show’s unique blend of quirky humor and sophisticated mystery. Elsbeth isn’t your typical “whodunit”; it’s a “how-catch-em,” where we know the killer from the start, and the fun lies in watching Elsbeth’s unconventional methods bring them to justice. This format provides a fantastic playground for guest stars, allowing them to deliver memorable, often scenery-chewing performances in a single episode.
Davidson recently shared in an interview with Variety that initially, it was a bit tricky to book talent for a show with such an unusual name. People kept mistaking “Elsbeth” for “Elizabeth”! But once the show gained critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, securing impressive guest stars became much easier. Everyone wants to work with the incredibly talented Carrie Preston, who, by all accounts, creates a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere on set. And now, Davidson has set her sights on a star with a connection to the vast and beloved Star Wars universe.
The Enigmatic Star Wars Connection: Who is the “Forgotten” Actor?
The phrase “forgotten Star Wars star” immediately sparks curiosity, doesn’t it? It suggests someone whose role might not be as universally recognized as, say, Luke Skywalker or Princess Leia, but who still made a significant contribution to the saga. When pressed about her dream cameo, Findley Davidson mentioned Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
Now, some of you might be thinking, “Phoebe Waller-Bridge? Forgotten? Isn’t she one of the most talked-about talents in Hollywood right now?!” And you’d be absolutely right! She’s certainly not “forgotten” in the traditional sense, having garnered immense critical acclaim for Fleabag, written Killing Eve, and even collaborated on the latest James Bond script. However, her Star Wars connection might be less front-of-mind for casual fans, which perhaps contributes to the “forgotten” aspect in the casting director’s phrasing.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Star Wars Role: L3-37 in Solo: A Star Wars Story
Ah, yes! Phoebe Waller-Bridge lent her distinctive voice and motion-capture performance to the sassiest, most independent droid in the galaxy, L3-37, in the 2018 film Solo: A Star Wars Story. L3-37 was Lando Calrissian’s co-pilot and companion, a self-modified droid rights activist with a sharp wit and an even sharper tongue. Her character was unique, groundbreaking, and incredibly memorable for those who saw the film, pushing the boundaries of what a droid could be in the Star Wars universe.
So, while she wasn’t a Jedi or a Sith Lord, Waller-Bridge’s contribution was significant and resonated with many fans. Her portrayal of L3-37 was lauded for its comedic timing, emotional depth, and surprisingly complex exploration of droid sentience. For the casting director of Elsbeth to pinpoint her, it speaks to a deep appreciation for her unique talent and perhaps a desire to tap into that specific blend of humor and intelligence that Waller-Bridge so effortlessly projects.
Why Phoebe Waller-Bridge Would Be an Ideal ‘Elsbeth’ Guest Star
Now, let’s really dig into why Phoebe Waller-Bridge would be an absolute perfect fit for Elsbeth. It’s more than just her Star Wars connection; it’s about her inherent acting prowess and unique persona:
- Quirky Charm and Wit: Elsbeth Tascioni thrives on quirkiness, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge has that in spades. Her performances, particularly in Fleabag, showcase a razor-sharp wit, a penchant for breaking the fourth wall, and an ability to convey complex emotions with subtle facial expressions and dry humor. Imagine the delightful interplay between Elsbeth’s almost childlike curiosity and Waller-Bridge’s sardonic delivery! It would be comedy gold.
- Intriguing Departure from the Norm: Davidson specifically noted that Waller-Bridge “is someone who I think would be interesting and a little bit of a departure from what we’ve seen.” This hints at the possibility of a role that challenges expectations. Elsbeth excels at casting well-known actors in roles that might surprise viewers, twisting their established personas.
- Versatility in Genre: Waller-Bridge has proven her versatility across dark comedy (Fleabag), action-adventure (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny), and even voice acting (Solo). This range means she could seamlessly adapt to Elsbeth‘s unique tone, which blends lighthearted moments with serious crime investigation.
- The “How-Catch-Em” Format: Elsbeth‘s structure, where the killer is known from the start, allows guest stars to truly chew on their villainous (or complex) roles. Waller-Bridge could play a wonderfully layered and intriguing antagonist, letting her bring both humor and menace to a character.
- Chemistry with Carrie Preston: Carrie Preston, as Elsbeth, has a unique ability to draw out fantastic performances from her co-stars. Her warmth and unconventional approach often make others drop their guard, leading to genuinely compelling on-screen dynamics. Pairing Waller-Bridge’s distinctive energy with Preston’s would be a masterclass in delightful character interaction. It’s a match made in TV heaven, like a perfect piece of a puzzle sliding into place.
The Dream Cameo’s Potential Impact on Season 3
Landing an actor of Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s caliber would be a massive win for Elsbeth‘s third season. Here’s why it’s such an exciting prospect:
- Elevated Profile: Attracting such a high-profile, critically acclaimed talent would undoubtedly boost Elsbeth‘s already growing buzz. It would draw in new viewers who might be fans of Waller-Bridge’s other work, expanding the show’s audience.
- Creative Freedom for Writers: Imagine the possibilities for the writing team! They could craft a character specifically tailored to Waller-Bridge’s strengths, allowing for a unique and memorable villain (or even an unexpected ally for Elsbeth).
- Award Season Buzz: High-profile guest stars often generate award season buzz. A standout performance from Waller-Bridge could put Elsbeth in even more conversations for major television awards.
- Maintaining Momentum: Elsbeth has quickly established itself as a fresh and intelligent procedural. Bringing in such exciting talent demonstrates the show’s continued commitment to quality and its ambition to keep delivering compelling episodes.
Looking Back at ‘Elsbeth’s’ Impressive Guest Star Roster
Phoebe Waller-Bridge would be in excellent company. Elsbeth has already welcomed an astonishing array of talent in its first two seasons. Consider some of the names who have stepped into the shoes of the weekly perpetrator or played other memorable roles:
- Nathan Lane: As the opera-obsessed former lawyer.
- Matthew Broderick: As a conniving college prep coach.
- Jane Krakowski: As a ruthless real estate agent.
- Jesse Tyler Ferguson: As a reality TV show creator.
- Vanessa Williams: As a socialite with financial secrets.
- Laurie Metcalf: As an actress playing a cop on a fictional show.
- Michael Emerson: Carrie Preston’s real-life husband, who played a menacing judge.
This list alone shows that Elsbeth has a magnetic appeal for actors, and the casting director’s ambition to add Phoebe Waller-Bridge speaks volumes about the level of talent they aim to attract. The show offers a unique platform for these actors to play against type or to lean into their comedic strengths in a fresh way.
The Challenges of Securing a High-Profile Cameo
While the casting director’s desire is strong, actually securing Phoebe Waller-Bridge for a cameo might prove challenging. She is, as many know, incredibly busy. Her schedule is packed with writing, producing, and acting commitments, including an upcoming Tomb Raider project. A cameo appearance in Elsbeth would likely be a brief commitment, perhaps around 10 days on set, which makes it more feasible. But it still requires alignment of schedules and a genuine interest from Waller-Bridge herself. However, the fact that Carrie Preston is a “big draw” for guest stars, due to her professionalism and friendly demeanor, might just tip the scales in Elsbeth‘s favor. Actors often love working with other actors who create a great set environment.
What Kind of Role Could Phoebe Waller-Bridge Play?
If the dream comes true, what kind of character would Waller-Bridge embody?
- A Masterful Killer: This seems like the most obvious fit. She could play a highly intelligent, perhaps subtly manipulative individual who believes they’ve committed the perfect crime, only for Elsbeth to see through their facade. Imagine her delivering witty, sardonic lines while Elsbeth innocently pokes holes in her alibi.
- An Unconventional Witness or Suspect: She could also portray a peculiar witness whose testimony is crucial but delivered in an unexpected way, or a quirky suspect who isn’t the killer but still adds layers of humor and intrigue to the investigation.
- A New Ally (or Rival) for Elsbeth: With Kaya (Carra Patterson) having exited at the end of Season 2, there might be room for a new character to interact with Elsbeth more regularly. Waller-Bridge could play a detective from another precinct, a quirky private investigator, or even a lawyer on the opposing side who appreciates Elsbeth’s unique methods.
Whatever the role, we can be sure it would be written to capitalize on her unique talents and provide a memorable episode for viewers.
Conclusion
The revelation from Elsbeth‘s casting director, Findley Davidson, that Phoebe Waller-Bridge is at the top of her list for a Season 3 cameo is undeniably exciting. While some might consider her Star Wars role as the eccentric droid L3-37 “forgotten” in the grand scheme of the saga, Waller-Bridge herself is anything but. Her unparalleled wit, unique charm, and proven versatility make her a dream guest star for Elsbeth‘s particular brand of procedural. Securing such a high-profile talent would not only elevate the show’s profile but also promise a truly unforgettable performance. We can only hope that the Force, and scheduling, aligns to bring this fantastic vision to life. May this Star Wars cameo happen!
5 Unique FAQs After The Conclusion
Q1: Is Phoebe Waller-Bridge definitely confirmed for an Elsbeth Season 3 cameo? A1: No, she is not confirmed. The casting director, Findley Davidson, stated that Phoebe Waller-Bridge is at the top of her wish list for a Season 3 cameo, indicating strong interest from the show’s side, but no official casting has been announced.
Q2: What is the significance of L3-37, Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s character in Solo: A Star Wars Story? A2: L3-37 was a unique and groundbreaking droid character known for her self-modifications, strong opinions on droid rights, and a remarkably independent and witty personality. She served as Lando Calrissian’s co-pilot and was praised for adding a fresh, humorous, and thought-provoking dimension to the Star Wars universe.
Q3: How many seasons of Elsbeth are planned, and when is Season 3 expected? A3: Elsbeth has been renewed for a third season. While an exact premiere date has not been announced, it is typically expected to return during the traditional fall television season, likely in late 2025 or early 2026.
Q4: Does Elsbeth often feature guest stars who play the “killer” in each episode? A4: Yes, that’s a signature element of Elsbeth! The show is a “how-catch-em” rather than a “whodunit,” meaning the audience knows who the perpetrator is from the beginning. This allows the guest stars, who often play the killer, to deliver engaging and memorable performances as Elsbeth unravels their crime.
Q5: What other Star Wars actors have expressed interest in appearing on other non-Star Wars TV shows? A5: Many Star Wars actors, especially those from the original trilogy or more recent films, frequently take on roles in various TV shows and films outside of the Star Wars universe. This allows them to explore different characters and genres beyond their iconic sci-fi roles. It’s common for actors to express interest in projects they admire, much like Findley Davidson has expressed interest in Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
