High Potential, ABC’s most-watched new series in six years, has ended its first season on a high note and is gearing up for an exciting second season. During a panel at the Deadline Contenders Television event, series star and producer Kaitlin Olson, alongside creator and executive producer Drew Goddard and executive producer/showrunner Todd Harthan, discussed the future of the show.
Olson confirmed that Season 2 will feature “a little bit more” than the 13 episodes of the first season. “We’re really excited about the direction,” she said, hinting at new developments for the intellectually gifted but emotionally complex character, Morgan Gillory.
Behind the Scenes: A Renewed Sense of Purpose
For Goddard, the renewal call came at a particularly poignant moment. Having just returned home to Encino after evacuating due to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, Goddard reflected on the significance of the show’s renewal. “I called Todd and said, ‘I’m so grateful right now that we get to be putting people back to work,’” he recalled. In an era where many productions are leaving Los Angeles, High Potential has remained a rare exception, continuing to film in the city.
“It’s a gift and a privilege to get to put people back to work,” Goddard added. “We take it very seriously, and we want to show the studios that it’s cost-effective, but that we can do beautiful work.”
Olson Brings Depth to Morgan Gillory
Olson, best known for her comedic roles in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Hacks, has brought a unique depth to her portrayal of Morgan, a single mother whose high intelligence and emotional instability shape her complex role as a police consultant. She believes that people like Morgan—highly intelligent yet neurodivergent—exist in the real world, though they may not always view their gifts as such.
“There are people walking around with very high IQs who struggle with their differences,” Olson explained. “It’s not always a gift—it can come with a lot of challenges.” She drew inspiration from people in her own life, even though she did not consult any one individual directly.
In her portrayal of Morgan, Olson sought to explore a character who was different from her previous roles. “I just fell in love with this character,” she said. “Morgan is a very good mom and a really good person deep down, which is something new for me. I wanted to do something different.”
Her approach to the role included adding subtle quirks, such as Morgan’s colorful fingernails and ever-changing eyeliner. Olson also infused her own experience as a working mother into the character. “I love my kids, and I want to make the most of the time when I’m with them,” she said. “Just like Morgan, I respect the fact that my children are different and need to be parented in their own way.”
A Memorable Moment for Olson
Showrunner Todd Harthan recalled a pivotal moment that solidified his belief in Olson’s dramatic abilities. During a particularly intense scene, Olson’s character, Morgan, confronts a group of cops in a raw emotional outburst. “I remember watching what she did over and over again, and that’s the moment where I realized there’s nothing we can’t throw at her,” Harthan said. “I think we’re going to be doing this for a while.”
Olson herself acknowledged the challenge of proving herself in a dramatic role, saying, “I like when people doubt me. It puts a chip on my shoulder.”
What to Expect in Season 2
As writers map out Season 2, fans can expect more depth in Morgan’s evolving relationships, particularly with her detective partner, Daniel Karadec, played by Daniel Sunjata. While some viewers may have hoped for a quicker romance, Harthan teased a slow-burn development. “I’ve been known for a slow burn,” he admitted, “but I guarantee you there will be progression on both the romance and the mystery surrounding Morgan’s missing husband, Roman.”
These two ongoing storylines will remain key elements in the series’ serialized structure. “There will be lots of satisfying answers,” Harthan promised, adding that fans can look forward to significant progression on both fronts in the upcoming season.
As High Potential prepares for its second season, both fans and the production team are eager for what’s next. With fresh challenges and new twists ahead, the show’s return is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated TV events of the year.
Related topics:
Sweet Magnolias vs. Virgin River: Which TV Series Reigns Supreme?
‘Clarkson’s Farm’ Returns for Fourth Season on Prime Video
FOX Renews ‘Family Guy’ Through 2028-29 Season in Major Animation Deal