Prior to CSI: Crime Scene Investigation‘s premiere in 2000, it’s safe to say viewers had no clue what the inside of a human body looked like–at least what it looks like after being struck by a bullet. Twelve years later, CSI has introduced viewers to a smorgasbord of fascinating and intricate technical shots, thanks in large part to Co-Producer Brad Tanenbaum. Since CSI‘s inception, Tanenbaum has helped mold the look of various visual effects seen on the show and, for the past several seasons, take on more of a commanding role serving as one of the show’s in-house directors. With his thirteenth credit coming up this Wednesday, Tanenbaum chats with CSI Files’ Shane Saunders about challenging effects, how technology on the show has changed, and tease his latest episode. (Spoilers after the jump!)

CSI Files: This week’s episode “Tressed to Kill” is your third episode this season and also one with a huge void – the absence of Catherine Willows. What immediately went through your mind when you found out you would be directing the first episode after Marg Helgenberger‘s departure?

Director of Photography Crescenzo Notarile (left) and Director Brad Tanenbaum (center) prep a scene on 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation' (photo: Brad Tanenbaum)

Brad Tanenbaum: It was hard for everyone when Marg decided to leave. I have been working with her for twelve seasons. I thought she went out in a very classy way. I have been lucky enough to shoot some very memorable episodes with her.

It was weird, we actually started this episode while she was shooting her last one. On day one we did a scene with Eric [Szmanda, Greg Sanders] and George [Eads, Nick Stokes] in Catherine’s office. Not to give too much away, [but] it looks a little different now. The Art Dept had to redress the set the way it lives now and redress it back with Catherine’s dressing for her to shoot in it the next day. It was very strange walking in there knowing that this is no longer going to be Catherine’s office.

CSI Files: Did you have any worries or concerns when prepping the episode? Anything particularly challenging about this episode compared to your previous installments?

Tanenbaum: Every episode has it own challenges. That is the great thing about working on CSI. No episode is ever alike.

I was pitched this story last season. Ed Whitmore (the writer) and I worked together on an episode called “Unleashed” last season. He told me the idea for this story then. I was lucky enough to get it. When I read his outline, I immediately saw the teaser in my head. Almost shot for shot. I pitched my interpretation to Carol [Mendelsohn, Executive Producer], Don [McGill, Executive Producer], and Ed and they liked it. The most challenging part was, where it took place. The opening needed to be filmed in a shopping mall, and we shot this episode right before Christmas. We were lucky enough to find a mall that allowed us to get in and out very early in the morning. We were also able to shoot around the Christmas decorations and the tree.

CSI Files: The CSI team is dealing with a serial killer who has an obsession with hair and makeup. What else can you tease about the episode?

Tanenbaum: This episode takes creepy to a whole other level. This is my second creepy crazy serial killer episode this season. I also Directed “Tell Tale Hearts,” I guess that is my calling this season.

This serial killer has a lot of crazy obsessions that all unfold before your eyes. The cool thing to look forward to is the emotional roller coaster that Russell [Ted Danson] will go through. Ted really delivers an amazing performance. He is backed up by everyone else’s, including a stellar guest cast.

CSI Files: Roger Bart plays a hairdresser in the episode and the actor is excellent at giving creepy, chilly performances. Was he your first candidate for the role?

Tanenbaum: Roger is great in everything he does, from Broadway to TV and Movies. His character Fitzgerald will be memorable. We looked at a couple of people, Roger seemed to be the right fit. We have an amazing guest cast. Brianna Brown who plays Paula delivers a great performance as well.

CSI Files: In Catherine’s absence, who steps up to the plate to fulfill her duties? Will there be any mention of her from the team?

Tanenbaum: Catherine will definitely be a presence in this episode. Her void will certainly take it’s toll on our CSI’s. Because of the escalation of this killer, this case becomes a must solve for our CSI’s. Everyone must fill the void. Russell will find a nice confidant in the end.

CSI Files: You have a long history with the show and have served in multiple capacities. From visual effects coordinator to several producing titles and now serving as a director since Season Seven. How did the evolution of your involvement with the show begin?

Tanenbaum: CSI has given me a lot to be grateful for. From a dream come true career to a wife and two kids. I owe everything to Carol Mendelsohn.

I got a job in the spiring of 2000 on a pilot called Crime Scene Investigation, I was the Executive Producer’s assistant. Jim Hart is his name. When the show got picked up,  Jim put me in charge of all the computer graphics, and the coordinator of the Visual Effects. I wanted to Direct and Produce and he said I needed to be able to carry myself in an Editing room to be able to do that. The show was in such an infant stage at the time. We were all just trying to stay on the air. A lot of us, especially me were doing things we had no other experience doing. It was really like going to Grad school.

As the scripts came in, they started to really write these very complex visual shots. It became my responsibility to get what the writers and directors wanted on screen. CGI was at it’s infant stage, when it came to television. So, along with our VFX supervisor we took on a very complex task to Produce, Direct and deliver these shots on a television schedule, television budget week in and week out.

As the years went on I have had the pleasure of Directing and Producing some of the most memorable shots on CSI. One day it’s shooting an apple at 10,000 frames a second with a gun, the next day it’s doing a two and a half minute single shot of our entire cast frozen in time as robbers are stealing a body in our morgue. That shot took months of planning, four days to shoot, and landed our VFX and Special Effects team with a much deserved Emmy.

CSI Files: From a director’s standpoint what big changes have you seen transpire over the years?

Tanenbaum: The biggest changes I have seen as a Director is technology. CGI has grown so much over the years. For an example, we don’t have to go to Vegas as much. We lay Las Vegas in the background in almost every episode. When we scout for locations we look for matte lines to lay in the skyline. We are using the Canon 7D camera a lot now. We still shoot the show on 35mm film, but the 7D gives us more flexibility to put the camera in some hard to reach areas.

CSI Files: You have thirteen directing credits to your name. Is there one you’re especially fond of? One you found to be more difficult than the rest?

Tanenbaum: They are all special. The most special will always be my first, “Lab Rats.” That episode wasn’t suppose to be more than a clip show for the miniature killer storyline we did in season seven. It was our first attempt to be funny. Our subject matter usually doesn’t warrant any humor. The challenge of that episode was to follow a group of Lab Techs, whom we knew very little about and they were to solve the miniature killer case behind Grissom’s back. Wally [Langham, Hodges], Liz [Vassey, Wendy Simms], Jon [Wellner, Henry Andrews], Sherri [Rappaport, Mandy Webster], and Archie [Kao, Archie Johnson] never even met each other. When I read this script I thought they were setting me up.

It really was like shooting a pilot. For the first time since the pilot we did a table read, and we saw what worked and what didn’t. And on day one, one of the first scenes we did involved all of the Lab Rats all together in Grissom’s office. The cast all knew the episode was suppose to be funny, none of us new how far to push it. We did the master shot and then broke for lunch. I was suppose to stay on time and budget, so I was expected to go into coverage after lunch. I told my AD, that after lunch I needed to reshoot the master. The writer [Sarah Goldfinger] and I all sat with the cast and defined each characters own inner dorkyness. We reshot the master, and the rest is history. That group of actors will always be very special to me.

CSI Files: The season is winding down, but you have one more episode that you’ll be directing. Do you know which episode you’ll tackle? Are you aware of what the episode will entail?

Tanenbaum: I do have another episode that I will direct, which will be Ep. 1219. I start prep in two weeks. I am going to work with the writers tomorrow. So stay tuned.

Thanks, Shane for all that you do for us. Thanks to everyone for watching!

Shane Saunders is a freelance writer and reviewer. His work can be seen on EDGE Network and ShaneSSaunders.com. Twitter: @ShaneSSaunders.

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Click the images to see them full-size. They are the exclusive property of CBS Broadcasting Inc. and may not be archived, leased, sold or distributed in any fashion without consent from CBS. They are released for one-time editorial use only.

"Tressed to Kill"-- Morgan Brody (Elisabeth Harnois, left) and Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda) both search for clues while trying to figure out who and what would motivate a killer of young women with an unusual calling card, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 8 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Tressed to Kill" -- Morgan Brody (Elisabeth Harnois) hopes what she just shined her flashlight on is a clue to the case, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 8 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Tressed to Kill"-- Nick Stokes (George Eads, right) wants some answers after breaking up an odd occurrence at a local whig shop, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 8 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Roger Bart guest stars. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Tressed to Kill" -- Nick Stokes (George Eads) looks for clues as he searches through a whig shop, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 8 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Tressed to Kill" -- Nick Stokes (George Eads) looks for clues as he searches through a whig shop, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 8 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Tressed to Kill"-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Click the images to see them full-size. They are the exclusive property of CBS Broadcasting Inc. and may not be archived, leased, sold or distributed in any fashion without consent from CBS. They are released for one-time editorial use only.

"Seeing Red"-- Now it's time for D.B. Russell (Ted Danson) to have an update on the findings as Julie Finlay explains when she thinks happened to the victim, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 15 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Seeing Red"- Now it's time for D.B. Russell to have an update on the findings as Julie Finlay (Elisabeth Shue) explains when she thinks happened to the victim, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 15 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Seeing Red"-- Julie Finlay (Elisabeth Shue, left) checks some files in the lab while speaking to Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda) in her first episode, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 15 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Seeing Red"-- Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda) listens as Julie Finlay explains what she believes happened to the last victim, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 15 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Seeing Red"-- Julie Finlay (Elisabeth Shue) in her first episode consults with Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda) while in the lab looking at a victim, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 15 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Seeing Red"-- Julie Finlay (Elisabeth Shue, left) in her first episode consults with Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda) while in the lab looking at a victim, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 15 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Seeing Red"-- Julie Finlay (Elisabeth Shue, left) in her first episode consults with Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda) while in the lab looking at a victim, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Feb. 15 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

2011 was a bittersweet year for CSI: Crime Scene Investigation‘s George Eads. During the summer hiatus, Eads happily wed his girlfriend Monika Casey after spending more than five years together. Shortly after the passing of Maverick, his dog and best friend of many years, Eads received news that his father’s health was rapidly declining, ultimately ending in the unfortunate passing this last November. With all of the pressing personal matters in his life, the Nick Stokes actor asked producers of the show that made him a household name to write a “light” start of the season for him so he could travel back and forth from California and Texas to spend some time with his father Arthur Coleman Eads. Now back on the show full-time, the actor is “eternally grateful” to his bosses at CSI for allowing him to be away from the forensic series and promises to be the “best Nick Stokes imaginable.” In his first interview since last year, Eads talks with CSI Files’ Shane Saunders about the loss of another CSI star, how long he imagines being on the CBS series, a potential love interest, and much more. Spoilers after the jump!

CSI Files: You’re one of the few cast members left that’s been with the show since Day One. How hard is it to see all of your closest friends and colleagues of twelve years leave?

George Eads: [Chuckles.] Woooo! It’s been difficult. You continue to learn with every passing year in this business and you have to roll with the punches. In the end I’ve just learned–and I’m learning–that sometimes change is good and things happen for a reason. They’re so missed by me. I learned so much from Billy Petersen [Gil Grissom] as a man and as an actor. Gary Dourdan [Warrick Brown]… I just love Gary Dourdan, he’s sorely missed. He’s unlike any other man in this business. I love the guy. But having said all that, I have to try and improve as an actor and welcome these new people and move forward. It’s been difficult.

CSI Files: With Marg Helgenberger (Catherine Willows) being the latest cast member to leave, are you starting to contemplate whether you want to start pursuing other projects as well?

Eads: Yeah, I contemplated that for a while, but for me in the end I want to nurture what’s right in front of me and who’s to say I can’t have some brilliant moments here on CSI? If I continue to link these scenes together and make them seamless and really make them smooth and great, then that can only bode well for me when CSI is cancelled. I think if somebody says, “What is the most recent work of the guy?” hopefully they’ll be able to show them last year’s CSI and it’ll get me more work. I think having the reputation of being loyal and a hard worker and a good fun guy working on a set for twelve hours a day, I think there’s something to be said for riding this out until the end.

CSI Files: When the show does end what kind of projects do you want to go after?

Eads: I’m just going to let my work speak for itself and hopefully take meetings with people who get together as a group of producers and see me in a different light or want to see me as something that I haven’t been [on CSI]. Would I like to do films? Of course. Would I possibly like to direct one day? Maybe some TV, I really know what I’m doing so of course I’d like to do that. There’s a big difference in saying, “Oh I can do this!” and sound like a bragger. That’s just not me. It’s not up to me, it’s up to the people who do the hiring and firing. I just try to be a good guy in front of the camera and in life so hopefully that will do me well. I’m just glad I’m on CSI, I love it just as much now as the first day I started.

CSI Files: Speaking of Marg leaving, what were your final days on set together like? The previews show Nick and Sara (Jorja Fox) tearing up.

Eads: That was very emotional. Marg has been a huge influence on me as an actor and as a man, too. Again it’s the same song, different verse about what a great person she is. I went to her trailer personally one on one with nobody around and we had a heartfelt, really heartfelt feelings of gratitude and that we’ll both miss one another. So what you see on camera is not acting at all. It was acting for me to try not to blubber up. [Laughs.] I did all I could to not fall on the floor like a kid in a grocery store and just have a temper tantrum, I didn’t want her to leave. She’s a beautiful person.

CSI Files: So would you say it was art imitating life?

Eads: I think for maybe a few characters it was. I think when I saw her goodbye speech–well, maybe I think it was something she said to us as a group after the cameras were off–and she said something about how Laurence [Fishburne, Ray Langston] did and how we’ve seen people born and we’ve seen people die, and we were all looking at each other because we’ve all been through it personally as a company; man it was a cool moment. It was really cool.

But I think when you see that monologue and see the emotions she has, that you know when somebody is putting on and she’s definitely authentic in that moment.

CSI Files: Well I called Costco and they’re delivering a large quanity of Kleenex to me.

Eads: Well, I did cry.

CSI Files: Let’s talk a bit about the next couple of episodes. How does Nick factor into Catherine’s departure?

Eads: I think they kind of have him take the reigns and be in command for a while with Catherine and Russell [Ted Danson] in the predicament they’re in. He’s kind of the catalyst to make sure stuff gets rolling. So we see him a bit in that leadership role, which I really personally enjoy because I feel like I’ve earned it. I’ve been here a long time… I was promoted to a CSI Level Three in the “Pilot”; Grissom said I was his best student. I think in other labs he could be the supervisor, you know what I mean?

And then there’s a couple of storylines in the following episodes when she leaves where I get to be in the episode a lot and sort of driving these scenes and I dig that. There’s a lot where I’m working with Elisabeth Harnois [Morgan Brody]. I pull a guy out of a burning car tonight, save his life… I’m running over to the car peeling things off and trying to save his life. That’s the kind of stuff I really enjoy. The guy I’m saving is Jesse McCartney, so there’s a spoiler. He’s in peril when I save him.

CSI Files: I’ve noticed you work with a lot of musicians on the show.

Eads: [Laughs.] Yeah, it just so happens. I always go “Wow.” And for me, with no disrespect, I like getting to go, “Wow, I got to work with that kid.” When I watch them perform, I get to go “Wow, they’re really talented, special, and one of a kind kid.” Again, with no disrespect to stunt casting, there’s a big community here in LA that need jobs. I kind of like getting to watch people you’ve never seen before on TV shows. We’re only as good as our guest stars.

CSI Files: To clear something up, viewers aren’t quite sure whether Nick was demoted along with Catherine. Are you aware of his senority status or are you in the dark as well?

Eads: That I don’t know. Those are specific details that I think the fan community sort of talk about and discuss. There hasn’t been a discussion and it hasn’t been brought up. I don’t think there’s any level of difference between anybody other than Ted as the boss.

I really felt like I maybe had a chance to be put in Billy’s shoes and cast around that. But that’s just something that never has been the formula for the show and I kinda needed to accept that a patriarchal type character is what drives the show. That’s a discussion for the people that created the show, not me.

CSI Files: There was a bit of tension at the beginning of the season between Nick and Catherine due to the Nate Haskell (Bill Irwin) fallout and Nick going rogue somewhat with Langston. Looking back, what do you think Nick should have done differently?

Eads: Well again, real quick, those scenes aren’t written to be hot. Marg and I chose to make it a bit of a tit for tat argument with some level of volume. It turned into something fun for us because we never get to fight on the show. I love to have more arguments on the show, even more shouting matches. Nick and Sara got into it in the hoarder episode and we had a really good time. But looking back, Nick could only do what was written for him to do. I really wanted to be involved in saving Langston’s life. I told them, “Hey, I want to be involved with this. I maybe even want to save his ass.” It ended up coming out differently. But the only thing that I would have done differently is write a cooler scene and make him more involved. [Laughs.]

CSI Files: Now you’re working with Elisabeth Shue (Julie Finlay) on Episode Fourteen. You two share scenes in the episode, correct?

Eads: No, we don’t have any scenes together in this episode. I don’t think. But I did meet her yesterday and she’s great.

CSI Files: And what’s it like working with Elisabeth Harnois and Ted?

Eads: Because of the situation with my father and me being so light [on the show] this year, I think I’ve been light with her. I think you’ve seen Eric [Szmanda, Greg Sanders] be really heavy this year to help me out and help himself out, he’s a great actor. My time’s been limited with Ted just because of my personal situation, which is over, but you continue to evolve your relationships on camera with every scene that you do. I think every time… I don’t want to say it gets better, but it gets more authentic every time I get together with the two of them. One thing I can take from Quentin Tarantino is make it real. It’s a collaborative thing on our set; they allow us to add and take away dialogue. Yesterday I had a discussion in my trailer with the producers about a small point of contingency that I had in a scene with Jesse. We ended up clearing it up and it was great.

CSI Files: With there being several cast additions this year, does it feel like CSI: 2.0 to you or does it still feel like the CSI you’ve been with for more than a decade?

Eads: A little bit of both. I’ve always felt a certain way about the show from the start… I’ve always felt like it was mine. And it’s not; it’s theirs too. We all had an equal stake in it almost like being partners in a company. I know I still certainly feel the same way about CSI like I did from Day One. But does it seem weird to look across at Ted instead of Billy or Elisabeth instead of Gary? Of course. Do I miss those guys? Of course. Do I think it’s better or worse? That’s relative. That’s relative for the audience to decide. I still feel passionate about it.

CSI Files: And for being on a show for more than a decade Nick can’t get some proper loving! We hear there’s a potential love interest coming up, are you excited for Nick to start getting more personal?

Eads: You know we keep teasing that and every time it’s absolutely nothing. I think it’s fun to flirt on camera and to have a little chemistry with somebody but even with this episode right now, the nurse that’s involved with saving this victim we kind of bat eyes at each other and we say, “If you’re ever free for dinner…” but then it never goes anywhere. I can tell you and I can probably tell the producers right now through you, if he’s going to fall for anybody it’s going to be Elisabeth Shue. It’s going to be a character like Marg Helgenberger or Elisabeth Shue. I already told Elisabeth, “I admire your work” and she goes, “Thank you. That’s great, we’ll play that.” I told her I’m already in love with you and she turns around, laughs, and says “Great!” [Laughs.] I think they keep putting people in front of me but the whole time the girl is right there. I think Nick’s going to fall for somebody he has respect for and works with. I don’t know; it’s not a soap, it’s not a show about people making out. I applaud those shows that do it well, but I don’t know if this is the one. But do I want Nick to have a partner? Absolutely. [Laughs.] Line them up, please. I’m ready to interview! [Laughs.] I don’t know how my wife would feel about it… [Laughs.]

Carol [Mendelsohn, Executive Producer] picked Naz [Boniadi] I guess through the audition process. It’s so light and it’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it, but it’s a reminder that Nick is available and he needs loving. I don’t mind putting that out there, again, I lean towards it being Elisabeth Shue. We had an immediate connection yesterday. I think she’s awesome.

CSI Files: Over the summer there was a comment saying Billy Petersen contacted you and shared he would be making a return. What changed?

Eads: Billy, in his personal life, was having twins. He was having twins and I think there were some complications, so he needed to be there with his wife and his family. That’s my understanding. He had a lot going on.

CSI Files: Do you still keep in touch with him?

Eads: It’s a phone call away. We’re pals. I think Jorja may talk to him more. He’s open to any phone calls from us. He will always be the king and the patriarch in my mind. I think he’s an amazing actor and an amazing guy.

CSI Files: For years you’ve gone on the record saying you’d like to direct an episode, but it seems the timing and scheduling hasn’t quite worked out. Have you ruled out directing an episode or is the idea still on the table?

Eads: Well, no. The pathway to do that though is, as much as I know about the process, I would really need to take steps to on my offtime here stay on set and shadow a director for at least two or three episodes. I would also need to spend hours in the editing bay watching them edit; that’s long days and long nights and when you’re acting at the same time, I don’t know if I want to spread myself that thin. I feel like if I went lighter on the show and had a couple episodes off I would be able to shadow. I’ve gotten encouragement from all the directors and producers here that I should do it and even the actors, which really shocked me. I’d hate to do it and let everyone down. I care about everybody too much to screw them over. I feel like there’s a part of me to direct.

CSI Files: You’re not on Twitter, correct?

Eads: No, but I thought about getting on there.

CSI Files: Let’s do it, c’mon!

Eads: Well, is it just me or does it seem like once you open that door providing access, you’re asking for some trouble? Is it weird to think like that? Council me on that.

CSI Files: I think a lot of people have gone through that mindset, but they’ve also seen how great of a tool it can be.

Eads: Yeah! I think it can be too if it’s used properly. [Laughs.] You better use it right or you’re gonna hurt yourself.

CSI Files: I know Jorja isn’t on there, but Liz Vassey (Wendy Simms) and several others from the cast are.

Eads: And Elisabeth Harnois, right? I’m sure Eric Szmanda is too. I’m going to think about it, I really might. It’s simple to do, right? But you know what I’m afraid, Shane? I’m a sensitive guy. [Laughs.] I’m afraid man that some of the harsh critics will spin me off and put me in a funky mood that I didn’t ask for. You know what? I’m thinking about it, man. When I go out to a meeting or something and someone has never met me before, if they IMDB’d me or went online, there’s just weird stuff posted about me: what possessions I have, my sexuality, and all this weird stuff. I’d like to just be able to clear up the smut. There’s stuff like me owning two Cadillacs and I live in Santa Monica–all this weird stuff that’s not true. I’m going to think about doing Twitter, I’m serious. I just think you can’t drink two bottles of Sake and get on there. [Laughs.]

CSI Files: But there are some celebrities who do that!

Eads: [Laughs.] I like my Sake, Shane.

CSI Files: 2012 will definitely be a new era for CSI. You have Jesse McCartney working with you on the current episode and the long talked about “love interest.” What else is coming up for Nick and the show in general?

Eads: I’d love to give an elaborate, cool answer on that. I just don’t know. I don’t know how the producers see me and what’s in store with me. I’d like to continue a bit and have an action level, like I said. I chased a guy from a convenience store one time, I had a shootout, I pulled a guy from a burning car; I like that kind of stuff. I would love to see over the course of the next four years, maybe in the final episode of CSI–which is hopefully ten years from now–Ted looking down and say, “I’m leaving, you’re the supervisor.”That’d be the end of the CSI series, I finally make the supervisor in the final scene of the last sixteen years. [Laughs.] I want Nick to be there and be able to tell people what to do, I think he’s earned the right to lead.

We’ve scratched the service on what potential my character has and what his abilities are. He’s a good leader, he’s fearless, he’s compassionate, and he’s old school when it comes to this whole fighting for justice. He’s a dedicated employee, I like playing him.

Shane Saunders is a freelance writer and reviewer. His work can be seen on EDGE Network and ShaneSSaunders.com. Twitter: @ShaneSSaunders.

Click the image to see it full-size. It is the exclusive property of CBS Broadcasting Inc. and may not be archived, leased, sold or distributed in any fashion without consent from CBS. It is released for one-time editorial use only.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Behind-the-scenes: Marg Helgenberger while the next scene is being set up in this behind-the-scenes photo from her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Marg Helgenberger receives her name plate knowing millions of fans across the world will miss seeing her on CSI. See her last episode airing, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger, left) stands in the doorway along side Laura Gabriel (Annabeth Gish) in this scene in her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) walks through the walls of CSI one last time in her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) hugs one of her longtime co-workers (Nick Stokes (George Eads) as members of the CSI team look on in her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Ted Danson, Paul Guilfoyle, Elisabeth Harnois, Marg Helgenberger, Eric Szmanda and George Eads. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) hugs one of her longtime co-workers (Nick Stokes (George Eads) as members of the CSI team look on in her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger, left) hugs Captain Jim Brass as other CSI members including D.B. Russell (Ted Danson, left), Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox) and Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda) look on in her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- This is a very emotional moment for Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) in her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- This is a very emotional moment for Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) in her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- This is a very emotional moment for Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) in her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox, left) and Nick Stokes (George Eads) are about to be hit with some news in Marg Helgenberger's last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Morgan Brody (Elisabeth Harnois, left), Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox), Nick Stokes (George Eads) and Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda) all look concerned as they leave the lab in this scene from Marg Helgenberger's last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox) checks her phone while being engaged in conversation in this scene in Marg Helgenberger's last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) stands beside Laura Gabriel (Annabeth Gish) and Agent Pratt (Matt Lauria) in this scene from her last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Marg Helgenberger's last episode. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Catherine Helgenberger on her last day on the set of CSI, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Members of the CSI team from left to right Greg Sanders (Eric Szmanda, left), Morgan Brody, (Elisabeth Harnois), Nick Stokes (George Eads) and Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox, right) all react to what Captain Jim Brass (Paul Guilfoyle, standing) has to say in Marg Helgenberger's last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Willows in the Wind"-- Cather Willows (Marg Helgenberger, left) and D.B. Russell (Ted Danson) in Helgenberger's last episode on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Jan. 25 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS ©2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

It’s good to be Elizabeth Devine. Not only is the former criminalist back on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation as a consulting producer (Devine left the series after season four to work on spinoff CSI: Miami), but “Genetic Disorder,” her first script produced this season, brought in big ratings–the highest since this season’s premiere. Just a few hours after preliminary ratings surfaced, the Jill of all trades (fair to say for someone who can write and solve crimes in real life!) talks with CSI Files’ Shane Saunders about some behind-the-scenes changes required for her episode, saying goodbye to a best friend, and teases what’s to come after CSI‘s winter hiatus. Spoilers after the jump!

CSI Files: This was your first teleplay since you returned this season. What’s different about being at CSIsince your last episode?

Marg Helgenberger (left) and Elizabeth Devine (right) on the set of "Genetic Disorder." (photo: Elizabeth Devine)

Elizabeth Devine: Well, we have a really collaborative writing staff here–not that we didn’t before–and everybody is just more seasoned. Trying to find new methods is really hard now because our fans are just so smart they know everything, so I was fortunate to be able to find the familial DNA in CODIS was something we hadn’t done before. That was kind of fun. At first when we were writing, everything was new to us and everything was cool. Now, you really have to work to get our fans interested because they know everything, so that was fun.

CSI Files: Last year David Rambo and Carol Mendelsohn had a pilot in development that dealt with geneology. Was “Genetic Disorder” an idea from Carol since the pilot was never produced?

Devine: She has a complete fascination with geneology and yes, her research in the pilot that she wrote had something to do with that, absolutely. I wouldn’t say that’s why she wanted to do geneology but she knows it’s a great arena that people are really interested in. We thought it would be fun to do an episode around it. She has a lot of research that I got to look through. She just loves this episode; she was just so excited about it. Geneology is very close to her heart.

CSI Files: How many drafts did your script go through due to the cast changes in this episode?

Devine: That was, I guess, the hardest part. I was told initially that Jorja [Fox, Sara Sidle] would not be in the episode, that Ted [Danson, DB Russell] and Marg [Helgenberger, Catherine Willows] would be light; so I thought ‘well, okay, that’s fine.’ We have such a great cast we can always focus on someone else. But at the very last minute George Eads [Nick Stokes] had a family emergency, so the night before we started shooting we did have to rewrite the whole show. That was kind of stressful. [Laughs.] And because there was personal geneology information from a character’s standpoint, I had to do a lot of research at the last minute to get the Norwegian backstory as opposed to what I had for Nick. There wasn’t just dialogue changes for the characters, it was some major geneology stuff that I had to find at the very last minute, but that’s kind of the fun part. I was sad to not have George, but things happens and we’re a family here and supported whatever had to be done on his end. We knew Eric Szmanda [Greg Sanders] would step up to the plate, which he did fabulously.

CSI Files: So your first draft had Nick working with all of the geneology information?

Devine: Yes.

CSI Files: It was a big episode for Doc Robbins last night, and Robert David Hall just knocked it out of the park. When creating the character of Judy Robbins, what did you guys have in mind? We’ve never seen her before, but she’s been mentioned during the past eleven seasons.

Devine: What I really wanted to demonstrate is that despite his disability, not only does he have a wife that loves him, but they have a very long-term marriage, which long-term anything has its ups-and-downs, but there was a general faith that they had in each other that was rocked a little bit in this episode. What I wanted to do is what you would not expect when you have someone finding their wife in a compromising situation where it really looks like she’s having an affair. I wanted him to be different than what we would expect which is the yelling and the ‘I’m gonna divorce you,’ all of that stuff that you usually see on shows. I really wanted Doc to be smarter than that and be hurt, but because he’s a forensics person he really did try to put his head before his heart and figure out what the evidence was before he got his heart into it too much.

CSI Files: Which is the polar opposite of how Brass (Paul Guilfoyle) was acting.

Devine: Right. I just felt that Paul Guilfoyle as Brass was perfect because he is a guy that got blindsided by his wife and was really hurt by her; he’s still getting over it. When he sees that tableau in Doc Robbins’ master bedroom, he had made up his mind. The last scene when they make up is actually the first scene we shot in the episode and Paul just got it; he knew where he had to end up in the episode. It’s fun when the actors really get the episode and understand what you’re trying to accomplish.

CSI Files: Will we be seeing Wendy Crewson (Judy Robbins) again?

Devine: We are leaving that open. She was such a joy; absolutely wonderful to work with. She and Doc Robbins and the real Judy Robbins, Robert David Hall’s wife really bonded. We’re really hoping we can bring her back. I think we’ve left that door open.

CSI Files: This is your first season back and of course it’s Marg Helgenberger’s last. The two of you are very close, so how has it been knowing one of your good friends is leaving just as you’re back on the show?

Devine: I know. Especially in my last episode she had other committments, and I didn’t get to have her very much. I’m going to miss Marg; no one can replace Marg. I know our fans are a little frustrated with her leaving; I can see from her own standpoint, she’s been Catherine Willows for twelve years and I can see that’s a lot to do for one role for that long. We beg her on a daily basis just to change her mind, and I think I can safely say that when our fans see her exit the door is open for her to come back. She’s fabulous. When I read articles saying she’s being replaced, that does bother me because you can’t replace these characters. What we try to do is bring in other characters that bring a different point of view and are interesting. I understand that without Grissom [William Petersen] and Catherine it is hard for some of our fans because they’re so wonderful. It’s heartbreaking for me and I can tell you her last scene… we were all in tears crying. It was just a mess. The whole stage was in tears. She’s fabulous and everyone loves her and she’s such a great person–great actress, but a really great person. We are really going to miss her here.

CSI Files: And the show has done a good job of bringing in new blood, such as Ted and Elisabeth Harnois (Morgan Brody) and coming up there will be Elisabeth Shue. What can you share about her character?

Devine: She’s going to be a reconstruction expert and I’m really excited about that because that’s what I did. [Laughs.] It’s easy for me to totally relate to that and write that. She will be very physical. She’ll be getting down into crime scenes because doing reconstruction means throwing a lot of blood around and figuring out who is standing where. Really bringing a different point of view to the characters. She will know DB from when they worked together in Seattle, so they have a bit of a connection; she was his number two there. It’ll be interesting to see DB when Catherine leaves… he was getting settled in. When Catherine leaves CSI, he realizes there’s something that he needs, so he goes to the person that can fulfill that need in the standpoint of work, which will be Elisabeth Shue, who I believe will be playing the character of Julie Finlay. It’s really going to be an interesting dynamic. They do finish each other’s sentences and they do have sort of a yin-and-yang as they say, but she’s not there to replace Catherine. She’s a completely different character and I just hope fans can–insteading of just closing things up and saying ‘I’m done’–give her a chance, because I think they’re really going to like these characters. We love our existing characters but we also think that adding a little new blood gives you a fresh take sometimes. It adds a little life being twelve years into it. We’re all very excited here and I think the fans that stick with us will be pleased.

Ted Danson’s just been wonderful and he’s such a nice man. I personally feel fortunate that he’s so dedicated to the show already and he’s only been here a few months. We’re very excited here.

CSI Files: Changing gears, you had a pilot at A&E that you were working on. Anything to come of that?

Devine: They decided they weren’t going to go that route. Pilot writing is very difficult and I enjoy it, but at the same time I’m surprised any shows get made. [Laughs.] It’s so difficult! I’m still working on some new stuff, but right now I’m just really happy to be here at CSI.

CSI Files: Do you have another episode that you’ll be working on this season?

Devine: I’m not sure. I may have involvement in some of the last episodes. We’re so far ahead–knock on wood–and we’re already breaking Episode Nineteen. We’re in such great shape that it’s just a testament to how hard everyone works. There’s only three episodes to break after this, so if they tap me on the shoulder I’m more than happy to jump in.

CSI Files: Do you anticipate that you’ll be back for Season Thirteen?

Devine: I hope to be. I would like to be, absolutely.

CSI Files: What can viewers expect after the winter hiatus?

Devine: Well of course we have the farewell to Catherine, which is a great trilogy. We’re going to rerun “Zippered” to kick off her exit. Then we have some really funky fun episodes. We have the important introduction of Elisabeth Shue’s character, which is also very fun. I think fans are going to like her right away. Some moving houses and caterpillars and all kinds of crazy stuff, so it’ll be fun.

Shane Saunders is a freelance writer and reviewer. His work can be seen on EDGE Network and ShaneSSaunders.com. Twitter: @ShaneSSaunders.

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"Zippered"-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC. All Rights Reserved.

"Zippered"-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC. All Rights Reserved.

"Zippered"-- D.B. Russell (Ted Danson, left) wants some answers and points at Mark Gabriel (Titus Welliver) as Agent Pratt watches, on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, Wednesday, Dec. 7 (10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) 2011 on the CBS Television Network. Photo: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC. All Rights Reserved.

"Zippered"-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC. All Rights Reserved.

"Zippered"-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC. All Rights Reserved.

"Zippered"€-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC. All Rights Reserved.

 

"Zippered"-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC. All Rights Reserved.

"Zippered"-- Coverage of CBS' CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS ©2011 CBS BROADCASTING INC. All Rights Reserved.