When thinking of Jenifer Lewis, words like Diva, Icon, and Legend often come to mind. But in an exciting twist for CBS’s “So Help Me Todd,” she’s adding another role to her repertoire: killer.
In the upcoming April 11 episode of “So Help Me Todd” (airing at 9/8c), Lewis will take on the role of Jacqueline!, an international opera star with a flair for the dramatic. Jacqueline isn’t just any guest character; she’s the estranged mother of Lyle (played by Tristen J. Winger), and her arrival promises to stir things up. Lyle, who chose to pursue a legal career instead of following in his mother’s musical footsteps, remains a sore subject for Jacqueline.
According to CBS, “Leaving no moment untouched by her outrageous sense of drama, Jacqueline blows through Lyle’s life, leaving a trail of emotional explosions.” Things take an even more dramatic turn when Jacqueline is accused of accidentally (or perhaps not so accidentally) murdering someone. True to her diva persona, she relishes the attention and publicity that comes her way, making the most of it. As Lyle humorously puts it, “The only thing that could kill that woman is flying economy.”
Since her iconic eight-season run as Ruby Johnson on *black-ish* concluded in 2022, Lewis has continued to captivate audiences with appearances in shows like Apple TV+’s *Central Park*, Netflix’s *The Upshaws*, and NBC’s *Night Court*. She also had a recurring role on Showtime’s *I Love That For You*.
*So Help Me Todd*, created by Scott Prendergast, stars Skylar Astin as Todd, a resourceful detective, and Marcia Gay Harden as his mother, Margaret, a defense attorney. The show’s ensemble cast also includes Madeline Wise as Allison, Inga Schlingmann as Susan, Tristen J. Winger as Lyle, and Rosa Evangelina Arredondo as Francey.
Lewis’ appearance is sure to bring a new level of excitement and drama to the show, making this episode one to watch for fans and newcomers alike.
