CBS has long been a powerhouse for crime procedurals, and in 2025, two standout series are making waves for very different reasons: Elsbeth and FBI. One brings a quirky, clever take on justice, while the other delivers high-stakes investigations with a tight-knit team of federal agents. Whether you’re a fan of humor-tinged sleuthing or adrenaline-pumping missions, these two shows showcase the broad range of storytelling CBS has to offer.
What is Elsbeth?
Elsbeth centers around the iconic Elsbeth Tascioni, a character first introduced in The Good Wife and The Good Fight. Played brilliantly by Carrie Preston, Elsbeth is a lawyer turned investigator whose unconventional methods and razor-sharp instincts often lead her to crack cases that others overlook. With its unique blend of wit, eccentric charm, and procedural storytelling, Elsbeth brings something fresh to the crime genre.
What is FBI?
On the other side of the spectrum is FBI, a high-octane drama created by Dick Wolf, the mastermind behind the Law & Order franchise. The show focuses on the inner workings of the FBI’s New York office as agents tackle terrorism, organized crime, and domestic threats. The characters, including Special Agents Maggie Bell and Omar Adom “OA” Zidan, work with intensity and precision, often facing moral dilemmas and life-threatening situations.
Style and Tone: Light vs. Intense
While both shows fall under the procedural umbrella, their tones couldn’t be more different. Elsbeth often feels like a character-driven dramedy, with humorous moments, quirky suspects, and vibrant visuals. It invites viewers into Elsbeth’s whimsical yet insightful mind.
FBI, by contrast, thrives on tension and realism. Each episode is a race against time, filled with car chases, standoffs, and emotionally charged decisions. The stakes are high, and the pacing is relentless.
Audience Appeal
Elsbeth is perfect for viewers who loved Monk, Psych, or Veronica Mars—smart, character-led mysteries with a dose of humor. It’s also a great entry point for those tired of grimdark procedurals and looking for a more uplifting take on justice.
FBI appeals to fans of NCIS, Criminal Minds, and other traditional procedural dramas. Its strength lies in its realism, teamwork, and the gritty portrayal of federal law enforcement.
Critical Reception and Ratings
In its debut season, Elsbeth has received praise for its originality, strong lead performance, and stylish direction. Critics have called it a breath of fresh air in the procedural landscape.
FBI continues to be a ratings juggernaut for CBS, consistently ranking among the network’s top shows. Its longevity speaks to its strong fanbase and compelling storytelling formula.
Why You Should Watch Both
If you’re a crime drama enthusiast, there’s no need to choose between the two. Elsbeth and FBI complement each other beautifully—one offering levity and introspection, the other delivering tension and teamwork.
Watching both gives you the best of both worlds: the joy of solving quirky puzzles with Elsbeth, and the adrenaline of chasing down dangerous criminals with the FBI.
