Spoiler note
Heads up: this dives into Episode 13 of Elsbeth Season 3, “Murder Six Across.” If you haven’t watched it yet and like surprises, stash this for later.
He actually asked to be on the show
Here’s the delightful part: Steve Buscemi didn’t need a casting call — he pitched himself. According to Carrie Preston, Buscemi told his team he wanted in, the casting folks found a slot, and everyone involved basically high-fived. For Preston, who’s admired him for years, it was a total fan-girl moment — humbling and a little surreal.
Simon: crossword nerd turned chaotic
Buscemi plays Simon, an old-school crossword obsessive whose frustrations and crushes tip into something darkly comedic. The episode leans into absurdity rather than straight horror — think peculiar motives, weird clues, and a murder method that’s more surreal than graphic.
On-set vibes: prepared, kind, and unexpectedly shy
Preston says he arrived ready and focused, but off-camera he was warm and even a bit bashful — not what you might expect from the notorious on-screen types he’s played. That contrast made the scenes more fun to watch: a master actor being quietly charming while delivering delightfully off-kilter menace.
Elbowing through the show’s signature chaos
Elsbeth has a habit of attracting big names who come in to play gloriously eccentric killers. Preston loved watching Buscemi handle the show’s unique pressure — the way he reacted to Elsbeth’s weird energy was comedy gold. Fellow castmates reportedly couldn’t stop grinning between takes.
Why this guest spot matters
Beyond the buzz, Buscemi’s appearance is a nice bit of proof that Elsbeth’s blend of cozy mystery and offbeat humor is working. The series keeps pulling memorable one-off turns while building its own identity as a half-hour hourlong comedy with a murder-y twist.
Where to watch
If you want to rewatch the carnage and the crossword gags, all available seasons of Elsbeth are streaming on Paramount+, and new episodes air on CBS on Thursdays. The show’s already been renewed for Season 4, so consider this both a guilty pleasure and a long-term commitment.
The takeaway
Steve Buscemi begging to join and then quietly stealing scenes is peak modern TV fandom: an iconic actor showing up because he loves the show, and leaving viewers with a deliciously oddball episode. If you like your mysteries with a side of quirky, this one’s a must-watch.