“Elsbeth” is a comedy now, seriously.
CBS is shifting gears for the third season of its hit series, officially submitting the procedural for consideration in comedy categories this awards season instead of drama, Variety has learned exclusively.
The series, led by Emmy winner Carrie Preston, spun off from “The Good Wife” and “The Good Fight,” has been praised for its eccentric tone and lighthearted approach to crime-solving. Despite its foundation as a mystery-of-the-week drama, the network’s decision to pivot to comedy reflects the show’s distinctive blend of wit and quirky storytelling that sets it apart from traditional procedurals.
The process for switching categories for Golden Globes, SAG and Critics Choice has already been completed and accepted. For DGA, the petition process is currently underway. However, for WGA, the guild does not allow shows to petition to move. Therefore, “Elsbeth” will remain in drama for the WGA Awards moving forward. CBS will continue to petition all other awards bodies, including the Television Academy which oversees the Emmy Awards, once submissions open in 2026.
Recent standout episodes have highlighted the show’s tonal versatility, including “Doll Day Afternoon,” guest-starring David Cross as a hapless ex-con whose toy store heist spirals into a hostage crisis, and “Ick, a Bod,” featuring Annaleigh Ashford as a suburban housewife whose Halloween rivalry turns deadly in Sleepy Hollow. The upcoming episode “And There Were Nuns,” airing Nov. 20, stars two-time Oscar winner Dianne Wiest as a Reverend Mother caught in the middle of a murder investigation when a pop star purchases her failing convent.
CBS’ push positions “Elsbeth” to compete alongside acclaimed network and streaming comedies in next year’s Emmy race — such as Netflix’s “Wednesday” and ABC’s “Abbott Elementary.” It’s a rare but not unprecedented move for a procedural that has leaned into humor and character-driven storytelling over the traditional grit of prime-time crime fare.
The series, produced by CBS Studios, has been a steady performer for the network since its debut in February 2024 and has drawn praise for Preston’s offbeat portrayal of attorney-turned-consultant Elsbeth Tascioni, now navigating the eccentric corners of New York crime with equal parts intellect and whimsy.
In addition to Preston, the series also stars Wendell Pierce.
“Elsbeth” will be one of the shows participating in Variety’s A Night in the Writers’ Room, an annual Awards Season Edition on Nov. 12 in Los Angeles.
