J. Smith-Cameron Channels Anna Wintour’s Influence for ‘Elsbeth’ Role
J. Smith-Cameron drew on a high-fashion figure when shaping her new character on Elsbeth, she told Filmogaz.com. The actor said the idea to reference Anna Wintour came from her. She described the part as someone who worships that image and tries to imitate it.
How the look and voice were built
Smith-Cameron said she wanted the character to hide behind a mask. She bought an inexpensive pageboy bob wig online to nail the silhouette.
She did not attempt a direct impression of Wintour. Instead, she aimed for a person who tries to sound a bit English.
On-set inspiration and a past encounter
Smith-Cameron recalled meeting Anna Wintour once at a fashion show. Wintour sat nearby, wore sunglasses and was remarkably personable.
The actor emphasized that her portrayal reflects obsession, not an impersonation. She said many people are fascinated by Wintour’s persona.
Episode details and series context
The guest turn arrives in the April 3 episode of the CBS series. The case centers on a powerful patriarch stabbed with a sword at an exclusive New York debutante ball.
Smith-Cameron plays the imperious ball director who clashes with Elsbeth. The encounter forces Elsbeth into close, hand-in-glove combat with the character.
About Elsbeth
Elsbeth premiered in 2024 and stars Carrie Preston as Elsbeth Tascioni. Her character serves as a de facto detective who aids the NYPD with unusual observations.
Wendell Pierce also stars. The series blends murder-mystery elements with a lighthearted tone.
Guest stars and tone
The show frequently features notable cameos. Names include Nathan Lane, Laurie Metcalf, Pamela Adlon, Vanessa Williams and Matthew Broderick.
Other guest actors are Michael Emerson, Keegan-Michael Key, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Retta, Blair Underwood and Linda Lavin. Smith-Cameron said she enjoyed the playful mystery format.
J. Smith-Cameron channels Anna Wintour’s influence in her Elsbeth role, she told Filmogaz.com. New episodes air Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET on CBS. Episodes stream the next day on Paramount+.
