Ben Levi Ross Joins Elsbeth Season 2, Bringing Excitement to the Hit CBS Series

Since her introduction in a 2010 episode of The Good Wife, Elsbeth Tascioni, portrayed by Carrie Preston, has often extolled the virtues of her son, Teddy, to anyone within earshot. After fourteen years and the release of two spin-offs, Teddy, played by Ben Levi Ross, finally made his much-anticipated on-screen debut in the December 5 episode of Elsbeth on CBS.

While TV viewers might be unfamiliar with Ross, those who follow Broadway may recognize him. He was an understudy for the lead in Dear Evan Hansen on Broadway before taking on the role during its first national tour. His additional theater credits include notable productions such as Ragtime at New York City Center and Gatsby: An American Myth at the American Repertory Theatre. Ross also appeared in the 2021 film Tick, Tick… Boom!, making Elsbeth his inaugural regular television role.

In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Ross discussed his experience on Elsbeth, the dynamics of portraying Teddy, and how his character alters the show’s internal atmosphere. He also contrasted the demands of a typical TV schedule with that of Broadway productions, revealing his favorite upcoming Broadway shows for 2024.

Insights from Ben Levi Ross on Portraying Teddy

“He’s really a catalyst for us to see Elsbeth as a mother and understand why she left Chicago.”

Ben Levi Ross and Carrie Preston in Elsbeth.

Reflecting on his role, Ross emphasized how Teddy enhances the audience’s understanding of Elsbeth’s character. He remarked that Teddy’s relationship with his mother offers a new angle to the ongoing narrative, allowing viewers to explore Elsbeth’s maternal side and the reasons behind her relocation from Chicago.

Ben Levi Ross: Totally. Yes, truly!

His arrival shakes up the show’s structure, introducing family dynamics that have remained largely unexplored until now.

Ben Levi Ross: I think everyone involved in the show would take that as high praise.

When asked about the impact Teddy has on the show, Ross highlighted that Elsbeth’s character is generally perceived in a procedural context. He articulates that integrating a character that adds depth to her home life differentiates the current narrative from previous seasons.

Ben Levi Ross: I think this is the first time we’re seeing Elsbeth in a family setting. It’s exciting as it allows us to explore her character in a more intimate way.

Collaboration with Carrie Preston

Regarding his working relationship with Preston, Ross spoke highly of her vibrant and engaging presence on set. He noted that despite her extensive experience, she remains deeply invested in the series and its evolving storylines.

Ben Levi Ross: The dynamic with Carrie is extremely lively and warm. She feels like the captain of the ship and is genuinely interested in improving the show.

Future Episodes and Character Development

As the season progresses, viewers can anticipate seeing more of Teddy. Fans can look forward to his character development and participation in upcoming storylines, which promises to introduce new layers to both Teddy and Elsbeth’s characters.

Ben Levi Ross: I can’t disclose how many episodes I’ll appear in, but you will definitely see more of Teddy throughout the season!

Transitioning from Theater to Television

“I love the theater so much. And now I also love TV.”

Ross revealed that Elsbeth marks his first consistent episodic role in television, having primarily worked in film and theater previously. He described the contrasting rhythms of the two mediums, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of adapting to a TV schedule.

Ben Levi Ross: I’m sort of nocturnal when doing theater, while here, I wake up at 4 AM to film. It’s a different kind of chaos.

Despite the challenges, Ross appreciates the opportunity to hone in on specific scenes, positing that the episodic structure allows for focused character work.

Ben Levi Ross: In theater, you’re performing the same show every night, keeping all the lines fresh in your mind. Here, I enjoy the chance to concentrate fully on each scene as it comes.

Thoughts on Performing Live vs. Film

When discussing the difference between live theater and television performances, Ross humorously noted the relief that comes from being able to do multiple takes in a television setting.

Ben Levi Ross: In theater, if you drop a line, it usually results in a long, awkward silence!

However, Ross also professed his ongoing love for theater, reiterating that he values the opportunities each medium offers.

Ben Levi Ross: I’m a working actor! I love it all, and I’m excited whenever I’m given a new opportunity.

What to Know About Elsbeth Season 2

Based on Characters from The Good Wife and The Good Fight

Elsbeth and Officer Blanke in Season 1 finale.

In Season 2, the Emmy Award-winning Carrie Preston reprises her role as Elsbeth Tascioni. This season unearths fresh challenges as Elsbeth, alongside Captain Wagner (Wendell Pierce) and Officer Kaya Blanke (Carra Patterson), faces the consequences of past decisions.