Elsbeth delivered its most delicious mystery yet on Oct. 23, 2025. Julia Fox guest-starred as Raquel Drabowski, a viral grief influencer. The episode titled “Good Grief” introduced a murder suspect who profits from tragedy. Carrie Preston‘s brilliant detective exposed the shocking truth behind the influencer’s empire.
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Julia Fox plays Raquel Drabowski, a grief influencer on the Black Veil reality show.
- Kaya Blanke returns undercover as docks employee Denise Jackson in Operation Starboard.
- The episode aired on CBS and Paramount+ with 4-star reviews from critics.
- Raquel’s dead firefighter husband Johnny mysteriously resurfaces after 18 months.
- Cathy Moriarty portrays Johnny’s mother Marie with sharp comedic timing.
Julia Fox’s Grief Influencer Sparks Murder Mystery
Raquel Drabowski built an empire on her firefighter husband’s death. She transformed tragedy into 15 million social media followers. Her Black Veil reality show became a cultural sensation. Raquel parlayed grief into lucrative sponsorship deals and brand partnerships.
Then Johnny showed up alive at her Manhattan apartment. The firefighter supposedly died in a Puerto Rico helicopter crash. His miraculous resurrection threatened Raquel’s entire career. She makes money from being a grieving widow, not a reunited spouse.
“It’s not a stretch to imagine Julia Fox becoming a viral sensation who is capable of a cute little murder.”
Why This Episode Matters for the Series
This episode brought back fan-favorite character Kaya Blanke in a secret capacity. Carra Patterson appeared undercover, not in her usual role. She’s embedded in Operation Starboard, a multistate dock investigation. The reunion between Elsbeth and Kaya felt authentic and emotionally charged.
Elsbeth spent the season missing her former partner deeply. This episode explored that loneliness while raising new tensions. Kaya’s dangerous assignment puts her relationship with Elsbeth at risk. Captain Wagner warned that any contact could compromise the operation completely.
The influencer storyline also satirized modern social media culture perfectly. Fox’s character represents a disturbing real-world phenomenon. People monetize tragedy on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The show critiqued this trend without feeling preachy or heavy-handed.
The Crime Scene Evidence Points to Raquel
| Evidence | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Johnny’s corpse found in Hudson River on wine cage |
| Cause | Pushed overboard from Staten Island Ferry |
| Physical Evidence | Orange ferry paint under fingernails, new FDNY harness |
| Fake Alibi | Prerecorded TikTok livestream using LiveClock app |
| Motive | Johnny’s infidelity destroyed her grief-influencer brand |
Elsbeth pieced together the timeline methodically and brilliantly. Johnny faked his death and lived secretly in Puerto Rico. He only returned when he saw Raquel’s newfound wealth on Black Veil. Raquel discovered his massive infidelity with over 50 women at Caribbean resorts.
Officer Hackett created a brilliant red string evidence board. It connected every clue with meticulous detail and clarity. Forensic evidence proved Johnny died on the ferry. Raquel’s livestream was perfectly timed but completely fabricated.
What to Expect Next on Elsbeth
- Kaya’s undercover operation will create ongoing tension and danger.
- Elsbeth’s emotional connection to Kaya may become a liability.
- The docks investigation storyline will likely continue developing.
- Expect more brilliant guest stars and compelling murder mysteries.
- Raquel’s arrest marks another victory for Elsbeth’s unmatchable detective mind.
Will Elsbeth Move Past Her Loneliness on the Job?
Elsbeth Tascioni has always been brilliant but unconventional professionally. She struggled without Kaya for most of this season. Officer Hackett tries to fill that void but isn’t the same partner. The team chemistry shifted dramatically when Kaya left at season’s end.
This episode revealed how much Elsbeth needs real friendship. She found a brief moment of genuine connection with Kaya. Their bar conversation about Angus felt heartfelt and honest. But the burner phone call at episode’s end cut the connection short.
Elsbeth ended the episode devastated by a disconnected phone number. Her giddy anticipation transformed into dread instantly. This sets up future episodes where Elsbeth hunts for Kaya. The tension between duty and friendship will shape their relationship forward. Can Elsbeth help her best friend while protecting a dangerous operation? The answer remains thrillingly uncertain.
Sources
- Vulture – Comprehensive episode recap and analysis
- Collider – Julia Fox guest star coverage
- TV Insider – Cast and plot details
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Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.