The Envelope

In this week’s episode of The Envelope podcast, Riz Ahmed talks about drawing on his own experience for “Bait,” his Prime Video series about a British Muslim actor whose life is upended when he’s rumored to be the next James Bond.

In this week’s episode of The Envelope podcast, “Love Story” stars Paul Anthony Kelly and Sarah Pidgeon open up about inhabiting John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette — and creating a cultural moment of their own.

The Envelope kicks off Emmy season with Carrie Preston, tracing Elsbeth Tascioni’s 15-year journey from quirky “Good Wife” guest to leading CBS’ “Columbo”-style procedural — and what it means to helm a broadcast hit. Preston breaks down Elsbeth’s off-kilter physicality — the leaning entrances, overstuffed totes and circus-bright wardrobe — and how theatrical training, empathy and on-set collaboration shape a character balancing slapstick comedy with genuine vulnerability. From sending a “stalker-level” fan email to Dianne Wiest to fielding dream guest wishes like Meryl Streep, Preston revels in Elsbeth’s murderer-of-the-week playground and teases deeper origin-story possibilities in Season 4.

The partners behind Under the Influence Productions discuss their approach to making indie film and TV in an evolving environment, including FX series "The Lowdown," 2026 Sundance premiere "The Weight," and recent Oscar nominee "Blue Moon."

In this week’s episode of The Envelope podcast, the “Sentimental Value” star reflects on growing up onscreen and following in big sister Dakota Fanning’s footsteps.