Did the CBS Show ‘Elsbeth’ Take a Jab at Elon Musk with an Erectile Dysfunction Joke?
Subtle Jab at Elon Musk Sparks Discussion in Latest Episode of Elsbeth
In a recent episode of CBS’s Elsbeth, actress Carrie Preston’s character delivered a humorous yet pointed remark concerning entrepreneur Elon Musk, referencing erectile dysfunction in a context connected to SpaceX. The episode, which aired on April 23, features Elsbeth investigating a wealth therapist, Dr. Mallory Ryan, played by Constance Wu, who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation linked to potential insider trading.
During a pivotal moment in the episode, Elsbeth questions Dr. Ryan about an entry in her patient logs that reads, “This is a September 2024 entry about a patient — name redacted — who experienced prolonged erectile dysfunction in the aftermath of SpaceX’s failure to launch.” Elsbeth quips, “Power of suggestion, I guess?” to which Dr. Ryan acknowledges that the launch failure was indeed “a traumatic event for many high net worth men.” It’s important to note that Musk founded SpaceX in 2002.
This episode is not the first instance of Elsbeth incorporating real-life figures into its narrative. The show has previously taken subtle digs at personalities such as Jordon Hudson, Bill Belichick, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
The April 23 episode also marked the return of Kaya, played by Carra Patterson, a character who has been pivotal alongside Elsbeth in solving cases in New York City. Kaya’s absence from earlier episodes had been attributed to an undercover assignment in Washington D.C. Preston expressed her initial concerns about Patterson’s departure, stating, “I was concerned when Carra needed to go and what we were going to do without her.” Yet, she noted a creative renaissance among the show’s writers, bringing in new characters that enriched the storyline with different dynamics.
Preston elaborated, “That doesn’t go away. So the longing for that — for her best friend — has created some really fun and deep and touching scene work.” The interaction between Elsbeth and Kaya has evolved, reflecting personal growth and change during their time apart.
The implications of Kaya’s return hint at a forthcoming reunion that could significantly impact the show’s thematic exploration of friendship and collaboration. The newest episode left viewers speculating about Kaya’s role moving forward.
Elsbeth airs on CBS Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET, with new episodes available for streaming the next day on Paramount+.
