Police procedurals continue to dominate television, yet networks are increasingly showcasing characters that offer a fresh take on the genre. Series such as CBS’ “Elsbeth,” NBC’s “The Irrational,” and ABC’s “Will Trent” emphasize consultants or detectives who approach crime scenes with unique insights. ABC’s “High Potential,” created by Drew Goddard and based on the French series “Haut Potentiel Intellectuel (HPI),” centers around Morgan (Kaitlin Olson), a professional cleaner and single mother of three whose extraordinary perspective and high IQ earn her a consulting position in the LAPD’s Homicide Division. While “High Potential” may not be groundbreaking, Morgan’s quirky nature and the unusual cases her team encounters could be intriguing enough to hold viewers’ attention.
The series opens with a typical evening in Los Angeles as Morgan heads to her job cleaning the homicide unit office. Although she seems distracted by the music blaring from her bright red headphones, she can’t help but notice an overturned evidence box and a whiteboard chronicling the department’s current case. Intrigued, she begins examining the case’s photographs and boldly eliminates a suspect from the board, designating the woman as the victim instead.
Upon arriving at work the next day, the detectives are not pleased with Morgan’s intrusion into their investigation. After reviewing footage from the office cameras, Selena (Judy Reyes), the unit’s lieutenant, summons Morgan to explain herself. Detective Adam Karadec (Daniel Sunjata) expresses immediate irritation at her presence and disregard for protocols. However, Morgan’s peculiar ability to rectify mistakes catches the attention of Selena and detectives Daphne (Javicia Leslie) and Oz (Deniz Akdeniz). Despite initial resistance from Karadec, Morgan starts consulting on different cases, uncovering overlooked clues and insights.
While “High Potential” doesn’t break new ground, it is entertaining. Olson, known for her role in “Hacks” and her long-standing performance in “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” effectively portrays Morgan, a woman who confidently embraces her individuality, even as it frustrates her daughter Ava (Amirah J) and Karadec. Her preoccupation with minor details paired with her eye-catching wardrobe—complete with miniskirts and sky-high stilettos—adds depth to her character, although this impractical style leads others to underestimate her.
Morgan’s personal life adds another layer to the narrative. She shares a friendly dynamic with her ex-boyfriend Ludo (Taran Killam), the father of her younger children, yet faces challenges in her relationship with her teenage daughter, Ava. Additionally, her financial struggles hint at alternative motives for accepting Selena’s consulting role.
Following a change in showrunners this summer, with Todd Harthan taking over from Rob Thomas, “High Potential” faces the task of distinguishing itself amidst a competitive landscape. The third episode, titled “Dirty Rotten Scoundrel,” is particularly engaging, as a presumed accidental overdose leads to a tangled web of identity theft, greed, and revenge. Morgan soon realizes her disregard for rules may jeopardize her colleagues’ safety.
Though “High Potential” has its moments of brilliance, much of it remains predictable. The series seems to be setting up a prolonged romantic tension between Morgan and Karadec, and while some plot twists may be surprising, many clues will likely seem obvious to seasoned watchers of network crime dramas. Still, with Olson at the forefront and a talented supporting cast, the show is a solid addition to the formulaic offerings on television.
“High Potential” debuted on September 17 on ABC, with new episodes airing weekly on Tuesdays.