Elsbeth returns from Scotland, still juggling her undefined relationship with Angus, only to walk into the chaos of a murder: her late-night talk show host Scotty is dead — strangled via his own shredder. While the police initially chalk it up to an accident, Elizabeth senses foul play. She convinces new officer-of-the-week Grace Hackett to help her unravel backstage skullduggery, improv lessons, and shredded evidence that leads her straight to the culprit: Laurel. Meanwhile, budget cuts plague the police station, and Wagner reveals that Elsbeth’s removal from the consent decree now makes her a liability — one that must be paid as a consultant. The episode ends with two major losses (Scotty and his sidekick Mickey) but a shift in power: new host, new sidekick, new tensions.

Timestamps
00:08 – Elsbeth returns from Scotland and learns of Scotty’s death
00:17 – We’re introduced to Grace Hackett, the new handler/cop
00:23 – Laurel’s seduction & tie‑in‑shredder murder
00:32 – Wagner reveals Elsbeth’s new status and its costs
00:42 – Improv session with Laurel helps crack the case
00:52 – Trash wrapper evidence solves the mystery

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