Carrie Preston, the magnetic lead of CBS’s legal dramedy Elsbeth, isn’t just delivering captivating courtroom charm—she’s also been influencing who shares the screen with her. Known for her Emmy-winning role as Elsbeth Tascioni, Preston is bringing her personal touch to the show’s guest star lineup. But who has she asked to join the quirky, sharp-witted world of Elsbeth?
Let’s dive into Carrie’s dream casting calls and see which actors she’s personally reached out to—some of whom may shock you!
🧠 Who Is Elsbeth Tascioni, Anyway?
The Quirky Lawyer We Can’t Forget
Elsbeth Tascioni first appeared on The Good Wife, quickly becoming a fan-favorite due to her offbeat mannerisms, razor-sharp legal mind, and unpredictable courtroom brilliance. Carrie Preston turned this side character into a standout icon, eventually earning her own spinoff series.
The Show’s Premise in a Nutshell
In Elsbeth, the titular character moves from Chicago to New York, taking on criminal cases as a consultant while unraveling mysteries and personalities alike. Think Columbo meets The Good Wife—but with more sass and style.
🎯 Carrie Preston’s Influence Behind the Scenes
From Actress to Creative Collaborator
While she’s not listed as a showrunner, Carrie Preston has been deeply involved with the series’ evolution. She brings not just talent to her role but ideas—especially when it comes to casting.
Why Her Guest Star Picks Matter
When lead actors have input on casting, it brings a new level of chemistry and authenticity to performances. In Preston’s case, it also means more layered interactions and even Easter eggs for long-time fans.
🌟 Who Has Carrie Preston Asked to Guest Star on Elsbeth?
Let’s break down some of the names Preston has expressed interest in—or has directly invited to appear on the show.
🎭 Michael Emerson – A Personal and Professional Favorite
Real-Life Chemistry
Michael Emerson, best known for Lost and Person of Interest, isn’t just a brilliant actor—he’s Carrie Preston’s real-life husband. The two have worked together before, and Preston has openly shared that she would love to see him play a guest role on Elsbeth.
What Role Could He Play?
Imagine Emerson as a creepy intellectual suspect, a manipulative lawyer, or even Elsbeth’s old professor. The possibilities are juicy, and the chemistry would be undeniable.
🏛️ Christine Baranski – A Good Wife Reunion Dream
The OG Powerhouse
Preston has hinted at wanting to reunite with Christine Baranski, who played Diane Lockhart on The Good Wife and The Good Fight. Their characters rarely shared the screen, but fans would lose it over a crossover.
Potential Plotline?
Maybe Diane hires Elsbeth for a high-profile NYC case? A legacy character colliding with Elsbeth’s eccentricity would be pure TV gold.
🔍 Alan Cumming – The Wild Card Pick
Why Alan?
Alan Cumming, who played Eli Gold, is a beloved part of the Good Wife universe. Preston has said she admires his energy and thinks his sharp wit would be a perfect fit for Elsbeth’s vibe.
Where He Fits In
A political consultant gone rogue? A mayoral candidate with a scandalous secret? Cumming would eat up any scene with Elsbeth.
🎬 Nathan Lane – The Ultimate Scene Stealer
A Broadway Legend on Primetime?
Carrie Preston has mentioned her love for theatrical actors who bring bold choices to TV. Nathan Lane fits that bill perfectly—and his past TV work (Only Murders in the Building) shows he’s perfect for stylish mystery shows.
Fan-Theory Role
What if he played a flamboyant defense attorney who goes head-to-head with Elsbeth? We’d watch that courtroom battle on repeat.
🎤 Audra McDonald – The Power Voice Preston Wants
A Diva with Drama
Audra McDonald is another actress Preston deeply admires. Known for her powerhouse presence on Broadway and in dramas, she could bring gravitas to any case.
How She Could Join the Cast
As a high-profile client caught in a scandal? Or perhaps a judge who doesn’t quite understand Elsbeth’s methods—but grows to respect them?
🎥 Other Actors on Carrie’s Radar
Tituss Burgess – Comedy Meets Crime
His larger-than-life persona could play well against Elsbeth’s unpredictable methods.
Sarah Paulson – Psychological Edge
Preston has praised Paulson’s range, and a psychological thriller-style episode could be the perfect vehicle.
Sterling K. Brown – Emmy-Caliber Drama
Carrie Preston is reportedly a huge fan of Sterling’s work. Imagine a moral gray-area client forcing Elsbeth into an ethical dilemma.
📺 Why These Guest Stars Would Elevate Elsbeth
Chemistry You Can’t Fake
The actors Preston has named aren’t just talented—they’re versatile, experienced, and capable of matching Elsbeth’s eccentric style.
Crossover Appeal
By including actors from The Good Wife universe and big-name stars from Broadway and prestige TV, the show expands its audience reach.
Social Media Buzz
Star-studded guest roles get people talking. From fan edits to Twitter threads, these appearances could spark viral moments and trending hashtags.
🧩 Casting with Purpose: It’s Not Just About Fame
Matching Tone and Energy
Preston’s choices reflect a desire for alignment—not just big names, but actors who “get” the show’s strange, whimsical energy.
Guest Stars That Challenge Elsbeth
The best guest appearances don’t just support the lead—they challenge them. Each of these actors brings enough presence to push Elsbeth into new territory.
🔮 Will These Dream Guest Stars Actually Appear?
Talks Are Happening
Some of these names are more than wishful thinking—insider sources say casting directors are reaching out. CBS knows the value of hype-worthy guest stars.
Scheduling Is the Real Challenge
With busy calendars and ongoing negotiations, not every actor can say yes. But Carrie’s influence could help make it happen.
💬 Final Thoughts: Carrie Preston’s Casting Choices Could Redefine Elsbeth
Carrie Preston isn’t just a phenomenal lead actress—she’s shaping the soul of Elsbeth. By bringing in actors she loves and respects, she’s helping to ensure every guest appearance isn’t just a cameo—it’s an event.
Whether it’s her husband Michael Emerson, an old Good Wife co-star, or a surprising Broadway legend, one thing’s clear: If Carrie wants them on Elsbeth, we want them too.
