CBS’s Elsbeth is returning for Season 3, and the stakes are higher than ever. After two seasons of eccentric detective work, glittering courtroom moments, and emotional goodbyes, the fan-favorite legal procedural is heading into its next chapter. Following a powerful Season 2 finale and a major casting shakeup, Elsbeth Season 3 promises to bring fresh faces, deeper cases, and even more charm from Carrie Preston’s beloved character. Whether you’re a longtime Good Wife fan or just discovered Elsbeth’s unconventional genius, here’s everything to know about what’s coming up next.
Has CBS Renewed Elsbeth for Season 3?
Yes, Elsbeth has officially been renewed for a third season. CBS confirmed the news in February 2025, ahead of the Season 2 finale. The renewal comes as no surprise—Elsbeth continues to be a standout with its blend of quirky humor, compelling mysteries, and standout performances. Carrie Preston, who originated the role of Elsbeth Tascioni on The Good Wife and later The Good Fight, remains at the heart of the series, bringing her unique energy and depth to the show’s evolving tone.
Carra Patterson Steps Back: What Happens to Detective Kaya?
One of the biggest changes coming in Elsbeth Season 3 is the departure of Carra Patterson as a series regular. Her character, Detective Kaya Blanke, was promoted to a special task force at the end of Season 2 and is now based in Washington, D.C. The season finale featured an emotional goodbye between Kaya and Elsbeth, closing a memorable chapter of their partnership. Although Kaya won’t be part of the core team moving forward, Patterson has confirmed she will return as a guest star. She assured fans that Kaya’s journey isn’t over—she’ll reappear in Season 3 and viewers will get to see how her new role unfolds.
Who Will Be Elsbeth’s New Officer?
According to showrunner Jonathan Tolins, Elsbeth won’t attempt to replace Kaya with a single new character. Instead, Season 3 will feature a rotating group of uniformed officers accompanying Elsbeth on her cases. This reflects the real-world nature of the NYPD and avoids the risk of trying to replicate the bond Kaya and Elsbeth shared. Season 2 introduced officers like Nikki Reynolds (played by B) and Chandler (played by Ethan Slater), and Tolins hinted that more recurring characters will appear in future episodes. Slater’s availability may limit his appearances, but the creative team is excited to develop new dynamics organically.
Tolins emphasized that Elsbeth’s investigations require her to have someone from the force present, as she isn’t a detective herself. While no one can fill Kaya’s shoes, the variety of new officers will create opportunities for fresh relationships and storylines, keeping the series vibrant and unpredictable.
Will Elsbeth Face Fallout From Season 2’s Finale?
Elsbeth Season 2 ended with Elsbeth in an emotional whirlwind. After her brief jail stint and involvement in the murder case of Judge Milton Crawford (played by Michael Emerson), Elsbeth emerged changed—but not broken. Showrunner Tolins has confirmed that the trial of Delia Kirby, Crawford’s killer, won’t be a central focus in Elsbeth Season 3. However, the impact of Elsbeth’s perceived involvement and the public’s reaction to her presence at the crime scene will continue to ripple through her storyline.
Although the show will return to its usual “murders of the rich and famous” format, Elsbeth’s image and reputation within the NYPD—and in public perception—may be more complicated now. This opens the door for interesting character development as Elsbeth navigates both external expectations and internal challenges following such a high-profile case.
Who Else Is Returning for Elsbeth Season 3?
While CBS hasn’t released a full Elsbeth Season 3 cast list, Carrie Preston is confirmed to return in the title role. Wendell Pierce, who plays Captain C.W. Wagner, is also expected to return. His character played a critical role in helping Elsbeth regain her freedom at the end of Season 2. Though fans were captivated by the appearance of Michael Emerson as Judge Crawford, his character’s death means he is unlikely to return—despite viewers’ hopes to see more of Preston and Emerson on screen together.
Preston has expressed excitement for the new season, especially with the changes in Elsbeth’s working relationships. In recent interviews, she shared that Season 3 presents an opportunity to explore how Elsbeth adapts without a close partner like Kaya by her side. This change, while bittersweet, allows the character to grow in new directions.
When Will Elsbeth Season 3 Premiere?
While CBS has not set an official release date for Season 3, Carrie Preston confirmed on the Group Text podcast in April 2025 that filming will begin in July 2025. Based on previous production timelines, the third season is expected to premiere in fall 2025, likely returning to its regular slot in the network’s primetime lineup.
Where to Watch Elsbeth
Both Seasons 1 and 2 of Elsbeth are available to stream on Paramount+. New episodes of Season 3 will air on CBS once released and will also be added to Paramount+ shortly after broadcast. If you haven’t caught up yet, now is the perfect time to dive into the stylish, witty world of Elsbeth Tascioni.
Elsbeth Season 3 is set to usher in a new chapter—one with evolving partnerships, emotional fallout, and a return to the series’ signature blend of humor and high-society crime. With Carrie Preston back in the lead and new faces joining the case-solving adventures, the show remains fresh while staying true to its core. Though Kaya’s departure marks a big shift, the spirit of the show remains intact. As Elsbeth continues to bring justice with her eccentric charm and unexpected brilliance, fans can look forward to another season of smart, stylish, and emotionally resonant storytelling. Stay tuned to TVSeasonspoilers for more updates and news.