CSI: Vegas Season 2 has proven the revival can stand on its own -- and so can its characters. The first season established Matt Lauria's Josh Folsom as a worthy successor to Gil Grissom, both in-universe and in the big picture. As the second season has continued to flesh out the new team, it's steadily propelled Folsom forward. The lessons he learned in Season 1 have paid off in Season 2 as Folsom becomes a clear leader -- both for the crime lab and for the CBS series overall.
While Folsom's boss Maxine Roby is the director of the crime lab, Folsom has stepped into a leadership role alongside her throughout the season's first six episodes. None of them have explicitly focused on Folsom, but he's had an important part to play in each one and been a positive influence on his colleagues. And the show's decision to injure Max in the line of duty also thrust Folsom temporarily into a literal leadership role. Season 2 has further evolved his character while benefiting from the result.
How CSI: Vegas Made Folsom a Leader in the Crime Lab
CSI: Vegas' first season defined Folsom's character as he also seemed to be figuring himself out. That was part of his appeal; viewers learned enough to like him but there was also that element of mystery that kept him feeling new. It was perfect for the series as it needed to prove to CSI fans that it had something fresh to offer the franchise. In Season 2, Folsom has a clearer picture of himself and is now using his experience -- professionally and personally -- to guide his colleagues in the crime lab.
Season 2, Episode 2, "The Painted Man" shows Folsom is the person Max trusts to help Catherine Willows with her search for Grace. She could have gone to any team member, but she chose him. Folsom doesn't only help Catherine with her investigation, but he also clearly has empathy for her, particularly when they find Grace's gravesite. He's not just there because his boss asked him a favor; he's supporting Catherine, even though they've only recently met. Then in Season 2, Episode 3, "Story of a Gun," Folsom literally leads the team when Max is hospitalized -- despite being the most affected by her injury.
In Season 2, Episode 5, "In Harm's Way," CSI: Vegas has Folsom mentor newcomer Beau Finado. When Beau admits he likes the killer and wishes he were innocent, the show could have easily pointed out how naive that sounded and looked down on Beau. Instead, Josh utilizes the moment to teach Beau by reminding him that forensic science still has a human element. Folsom also comforts his close friend and love interest Allie Rajan in "The Painted Man" when she's intimidated by a suspect -- twice. He's present in several other characters' biggest moments, giving them what they need to go forward. If Season 1 was about Folsom looking in at himself, Season 2 emphasizes his ability to reach others.
How CSI: Vegas Made Folsom a Leader of the Show
Folsom's other similarity to Grissom is in how he provides a solid foundation for CSI: Vegas. On the original series, Grissom's calm yet fun personality and William Petersen's excellent performances meant viewers could always expect at least one great thing even if the episode was disappointing. Folsom serves the same function; he sets the tone for the new series. Lauria is likewise dependable, always helping to drive the story forward whether his character has one scene or is the centerpiece. His stability gives the audience a degree of familiarity and allows the show itself to take bigger risks -- because Folsom is there to keep it grounded.
Those qualities are highlighted in Season 2. Lauria has come a long way from his guest appearances in CSI Season 12; one only needs to watch his interactions with Catherine to see the difference between Folsom and the junior FBI agent who was part of Catherine's exit story. He complements Helgenberger well as his character is now more than a supporting piece in Catherine's arc. His performance comes more from a position of strength with a season under his belt. Similarly, Folsom has had stabilizing moments with Catherine, Allie and Max in just six episodes. The team knows they can count on him, and so do the fans.
CSI: Vegas airs Thursdays at 10:00 p.m. on CBS and streams on Paramount+.