Elsbeth episode ‘Good Grief’ brings Julia Fox, Kaya reunion that threatens undercover operation

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By: Daniel Harris

Julia Fox stars as Raquel Drabowski, a wealthy grief influencer in Elsbeth‘s latest episode. ‘Good Grief’ aired on Oct. 23, 2025 and brought Detective Kaya Blanke back to the show. The episode features a Bachelor parody and an undercover operation gone wrong.

🔥 Quick Facts:

  • Julia Fox guest-starred as grief influencer Raquel Drabowski
  • Carra Patterson returned as Detective Kaya Blanke in Season 3 Episode 3
  • The episode features a hilarious Bachelor parody with grief-themed contestants
  • Elsbeth reveals a secret relationship that puts Kaya’s undercover operation at risk
  • Episode aired at 10 PM ET on CBS and Paramount+

Julia Fox Brings Star Power to Murder Mystery

The ‘Good Grief’ episode centers on Raquel Drabowski, a grief influencer who exploits people’s mourning for profit. Julia Fox delivers a standout performance as the conniving influencer caught in a murder case. Her husband, Johnny, a New York firefighter, supposedly died in a helicopter crash 18 months ago.

Things take a dramatic turn when Johnny mysteriously reappears alive. His return sets off a chain of events that ends in death. Elsbeth Tascioni (Carrie Preston) investigates the case alongside Detective Kaya Blanke. The reunion creates major complications for the investigation.

“When grief influencer Raquel Drabowski’s presumed-dead husband makes a miraculous return, their reunion takes a fatal plunge.”

CBS, Official Episode Description

Kaya’s Return Threatens Undercover Operation

Carra Patterson makes a much-welcomed return as Detective Kaya Blanke in this episode. Kaya’s reappearance creates unexpected tension in the investigation. Elsbeth accidentally reunites with Kaya while working on the murder case.

The situation escalates when Elsbeth reveals a secret relationship she’s been hiding. This confession directly jeopardizes Kaya‘s undercover role. Fans worried about Kaya‘s safety after the episode aired. The stakes rise considerably as the investigation progresses.

According to reports, Kaya ends up in potential danger due to the botched undercover operation. Elsbeth‘s personal feelings interfere with professional judgment. The reunion highlights the show’s ability to blend comedy with genuine dramatic stakes.

The Bachelor Parody Steals the Show

One of the episode’s most memorable moments is a grief-themed Bachelor parody. Elsbeth stages an unconventional dating show segment to move the investigation forward. The scene is intentionally ridiculous and hilarious.

Episode Details Information
Episode Title Good Grief
Season / Episode Season 3, Episode 3
Air Date October 23, 2025
Guest Star Julia Fox as Raquel Drabowski
Returning Guest Carra Patterson as Detective Kaya Blanke
Network / Streaming CBS / Paramount+
Rating (IMDB) 7.8/10

The Bachelor bit perfectly captures Elsbeth‘s comedic tone. The parody uses grief as its hook, featuring participants mourning various losses. Julia Fox as Raquel navigates the absurd setup with remarkable comedic timing.

Critical Reception and Fan Reactions

Critics praised the episode for getting Elsbeth back on track after early season stumbles. TV Fanatic gave the episode an ‘A’ grade. Collider awarded it 9/10, noting it as the highlight of Season 3 so far.

Fans celebrated the return of Kaya Blanke‘s character. Carra Patterson‘s absence from earlier episodes left viewers wanting. Her reappearance generated immediate social media buzz. The chemistry between Elsbeth and Kaya remains compelling after her departure as a series regular.

  • Julia Fox steals every scene she’s in with sharp comedic delivery
  • The grief influencer concept offers social commentary on modern culture
  • Detective Kaya’s return hints at future plot developments
  • The Bachelor parody ranks among the season’s funniest moments
  • Episode showcases Carrie Preston’s ability to balance drama and comedy

What’s Next for Elsbeth Season 3?

With Kaya’s unexpected return and the dynamics shifting, Elsbeth Season 3 continues delivering surprises. The show moves to Thursday nights at 10 PM ET on CBS. New episodes drop on Paramount+ simultaneously for premium subscribers.

Viewers can expect more guest stars and case-of-the-week adventures. The show has already brought in Stephen Colbert, William Jackson Harper, and Sarah Steele. Elsbeth seems committed to high-profile casting choices for Season 3.

The reunion with Kaya raises questions about her future on the show. Will she return as a series regular? Does her relationship with Elsbeth’s secret romance change things? These questions will likely fuel fan theories heading forward.

Where to Catch the Episode

Stream ‘Good Grief’ on Paramount+ with either subscription tier. Premium subscribers stream new episodes live with CBS broadcast. Essential subscribers access episodes the next day. You can also catch reruns on CBS and Paramount+.

Why Julia Fox’s Guest Appearance Makes Such an Impact

Julia Fox isn’t a typical TV guest star. Her presence adds credibility to the grief influencer role. Fox’s recent television work shows her expanding from film into dramatic series. Her appearance in Elsbeth demonstrates her comedic range.

The character of Raquel gives Fox a juicy supporting role. She plays against type as a selfish, calculating woman. The performance proves Fox commands attention whenever she appears on screen. Collider’s review highlights her as “the worst influencer in the world,” and that’s entirely the point.

Fox’s involvement elevated anticipation for this episode significantly. Entertainment outlets covered her appearance extensively in preview coverage. The gamble paid off with strong critical response and audience engagement numbers.

Sources

  • CBS – Official Elsbeth episode information and streaming details
  • Collider – Episode recap and critical analysis
  • TV Fanatic – Episode review and ratings

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