Note: The following recap contains spoilers for Elsbeth Season 2 Episode 13.

Season 2 of Elsbeth has introduced numerous “foes,” including Lt. Connor ( Daniel K. Isaac ), who is more a product of his duty than a true villain. Despite his growth into a team player, Elsbeth ( Carrie Preston ) faces challenges from Mark Van Ness ( Michael Park ) and the menacing Judge Crawford ( Michael Emerson ). In Episode 13, titled “Tearjerker,” a new antagonist emerges: a toxic, misogynistic nepo baby, adding a layer of realism to the narrative.

‘Elsbeth’ Season 2 Episode 13 Sees a Murder on Billionaire’s Row

The episode begins in an upscale Manhattan restaurant where billionaire Nathan Jordan ( Larry Pine ) enjoys dinner with his much younger date, Chloe ( Jordana Brewster ). Observing their dynamic, the staff notes Nathan’s newfound joy. However, as they order drinks, Chloe secretly adds a clear liquid to Nathan’s glass before they leave, with her actions hinting at a sinister motive.

After a brief stop for takeout, Chloe returns to Nathan’s apartment, helps him into bed, and discreetly adds a bottle of pills to his collection before leaving. When Deborah ( Victoria Clark ) checks on Nathan, she finds him dead, leading to a police investigation.

The next morning at the precinct, Captain Wagner ( Wendell Pierce ) discusses Nathan’s death with Captain Kershaw ( Jen Colella ), who suggests Detective Rivers ( Braeden De La Garza ) take the case. However, Rivers’ brash demeanor and disrespect toward Elsbeth and Officer Kaya Blanke ( Carra Patterson ) complicate matters.

Elsbeth and Blanke Deal With a Rude Detective in Season 2 Episode 13

As the investigation unfolds, Elsbeth and Blanke notice discrepancies in Nathan’s medication routine. Deborah, Nathan’s estranged wife, faces accusations from Rivers, who implies she had an affair and a motive for murder. Elsbeth guides Deborah through her routine, suspecting Nathan may have accidentally overdosed on his medication.

They discover a bottle of pentobarbital, a potent sedative, leading Rivers to arrest Deborah despite her insistence on her innocence. Elsbeth and Blanke suspect deeper issues at play, especially as they uncover further inconsistencies in the evidence.

Elsbeth Tracks Down a Very Expensive Consultant in Season 2 Episode 13

Back at the precinct, Elsbeth and Blanke investigate Nathan’s CashShare app, revealing a complex relationship with someone simply known as “C.” Their inquiry leads them to the restaurant where Nathan dined, uncovering issues with the building that could provide motive for the residents suing Nathan.

As they dig deeper, they learn about Chloe’s connections to Nathan and her questionable lifestyle consulting business, which raises further suspicions about her involvement in Nathan’s death.

The Police Struggle to Find Motive for Murder in ‘Elsbeth’ Season 2 Episode 13

Elsbeth grows increasingly convinced of Chloe’s guilt but struggles to find concrete evidence. Meanwhile, Rivers jumps to conclusions, arresting Jason, who has no real motive. The investigation takes a turn when Elsbeth reviews security footage, revealing suspicious camera movements that could indicate someone manipulated the system to commit the crime undetected.

As Elsbeth pieces together the puzzle, she realizes Nathan’s death may have been part of a larger plan involving Chloe and the manipulation of those around him.

Elsbeth Finds a Surprising Motive in Season 2 Episode 13

In a dramatic conclusion, Elsbeth reveals that Nathan orchestrated his own death, intending to frame others while securing a legacy for himself. Chloe’s emotional connection to Nathan complicates her role, leading to her arrest despite Elsbeth’s attempts to defend her.

The episode highlights themes of manipulation, betrayal, and the systemic failures in how women are treated in both personal and professional spheres, culminating in a gripping narrative that leaves viewers eager for the next installment.

New episodes of Elsbeth Season 2 air Thursdays on CBS.

Collider Source: https://collider.com/elsbeth-season-2-episode-13-recap/ Stay up to date with new movie news, watch the latest movie trailers & get trusted reviews of upcoming movies & more from the team at Collider.