The third season of CBS's hit procedural "Elsbeth" promises to delve deeper into its beloved characters while delivering an array of colorful new cases and a festive themed episode. Viewers will witness significant developments in the personal lives of both the titular investigator, Elsbeth Tascioni (Carrie Preston), and her initially curmudgeonly supervisor, Captain C.W. Wagner (Wendell Pierce), after her arrest in the Season 2 finale.

Captain Wagner, known for his stoic and grumpy demeanor on the job, is set to reveal a softer, more familial side with the introduction of his daughter, Julia, portrayed by new co-star Brittany Inge. Speaking at the New York premiere of Season 3, Pierce affectionately described Julia as "daddy's little girl," whose presence instantly melts his tough exterior. He elaborated that while he's a "curmudgeon" at work, he becomes "very protective" when it comes to his daughter, offering a "nice little window into family life." Inge echoed this sentiment, describing the bond between Julia and Wagner as "definitely loving, but also complicated," as Julia's growth into womanhood presents challenges and "headaches" for her adjusting father. Inge, a longtime fan of "Elsbeth" the character and the show, expressed immense excitement about joining the cast, particularly appreciating the show's renowned costume design. She confirmed her character is slated for at least three episodes, with potential for more, as filming is still in progress.

Meanwhile, Elsbeth's son, Teddy (Ben Levi Ross), will also play a more integrated role in her professional world this season. Having abandoned thoughts of law school due to disillusionment with the devaluation of law, Teddy has embarked on a new career as an investigative journalist for the "New York View." This shift in profession is designed to bring him closer to his mother's cases in natural and potentially complex ways. Ross noted that Teddy's presence in New York allows their relationship to deepen, fostering mutual support and advice in their respective careers. However, showrunner Jonathan Tolins teased that Teddy's investigations, particularly concerning a mayoral candidate Elsbeth becomes close to, could lead to "awkward situations" if he uncovers sensitive information.

Season 3 will continue to feature a strong lineup of guest stars and engaging weekly mysteries. The premiere episode, "Yes, And...," saw Elsbeth navigating a heated late-night scenario involving Stephen Colbert's tyrannical host Scotty Bristol, Amy Sedaris, and Andy Richter. Other notable guest appearances throughout the season will include Julia Fox, David Cross (in a toy store hostage situation), William Jackson Harper, Annaleigh Ashford, and a reunion with "The Good Fight's" Sarah Steele.

In true "Elsbeth" fashion, the series will once again celebrate Halloween with a special themed episode, playing to the show's strength in elaborate costumes. Showrunner Jonathan Tolins revealed that Elsbeth herself will wear "four different costumes of the same character" (described as Mary Poppins-like looks) as she struggles to decide on the perfect outfit. This year's ghoulish case involves a bitter rivalry between a killer suburban housewife, played by guest star Annaleigh Ashford, and a new neighbor in Sleepy Hollow, culminating on the spookiest night of the year. Daniel K. Isaac, also a cast member, highlighted the joy of being on a show that allows adults to "play dress up" and have fun, crediting the excellent work of costume designer Daniel Lawson and the costume department.

"Elsbeth" Season 3 had a special Sunday night premiere alongside "Matlock" Season 2 and will subsequently air in its regular Thursday 10 p.m. ET slot on CBS, starting October 16. Viewers are encouraged to stay tuned to Collider for more updates as the murder mystery series unfolds.