ABC’s High Potential, one of the best primetime dramas in a long time, premiered in September 2024. After its midseason hiatus, the new show finally returned in January 2025. The cast of High Potential combines seasoned performers with exciting newcomers to bring all the laughter and drama.The show’s compelling storytelling follows the LAPD’s newest consultant, Morgan Gillory, as she uses her exceptional mind and observational skills to see essential details in challenging cases.We’re breaking down everything you need to know about the show’s stellar cast, where the idea for the series originated, and whether fans can expect a Season 2.High Potential is available to watch on ABC, Hulu, and Disney+.This post may includeaffiliate links.

ABC’s High Potential, one of the best primetime dramas in a long time, premiered in September 2024. After its midseason hiatus, the new show finally returned in January 2025. The cast of High Potential combines seasoned performers with exciting newcomers to bring all the laughter and drama.

The show’s compelling storytelling follows the LAPD’s newest consultant, Morgan Gillory, as she uses her exceptional mind and observational skills to see essential details in challenging cases.

We’re breaking down everything you need to know about the show’s stellar cast, where the idea for the series originated, and whether fans can expect a Season 2.

High Potential is available to watch on ABC, Hulu, and Disney+.

This post may includeaffiliate links.

Actor Kaitlin Olson from High Potential in a semi-sheer black blouse, smiling at a premiere event.

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In a pivotal supporting role to Olson’s Morgan, Daniel Sunjata plays Detective Karadec of the LAPD’s Major Crimes unit. While Karadec is introduced as uptight and procedural, audiences begin to see a softening of the man’s steely exterior over the course of the series.Sunjata described his character inThe Wrapas “not your average, everyday detective.” He also thinks that Karadec’s dynamic with Morgan is part of the show’s appeal.While the two are superb sounding boards for each other, they are still trying to figure out their relationship, and “the dramatic tension…[and] the comedy that occasionally flows from that.”Fans will recognize Sunjata as Agent Paul Briggs from Graceland (2013-2015) and from his roles in The Dark Knight Rises (2012) and The Devil Wears Prada (2006).

Daniel Sunjata in a gray suit and patterned tie looking serious; cast member of High Potential.

Addison Timlin guest stars as Brooke Kirkman in the seventh episode of High Potential’s first season. Brooke’s sudden appearance puts Morgan’s crime-solving skills to the ultimate test. Without revealing too much, the character ushers in an unexpected burst of emotional intensity into the episode’s storyline that will leave audiences at the edge of their seats.Timlin is well known for her roles in Derailed (2005), Californication (2007-2014), and StartUp (2016-2018).

Addison Timlin from the cast of High Potential in front of a pink background, wearing a white shirt.

Actor Deniz Akdeniz from High Potential cast in maroon jacket against a blue backdrop.

Judy Reyes with curly hair poses in front of a Disney Television Studios backdrop, representing the cast of High Potential.

Amirah J portrays the relatable teenager, Ava Sinquerra, Morgan’s eldest child. Amirah described her spirited character as an “angsty teen who’s kind of going through a lot of emotions and bickering with her mom a lot” (perABC).During an interview withScreen Rant, Amirah also noted that Ava is “very emotional and has a guard up all the time.” Even though Ava and her mother often struggle to see eye-to-eye, the pair’s dynamic evolves towards a more grounded relationship throughout the series.While High Potential is Amirah’s biggest role to date, the 17-year-old has featured in several other productions. She’s appeared in Shameless (2011-2021) and All That (1994-2020).

Amirah J in a green dress at the “High Potential” premiere event backdrop.

Matthew Lamb, young cast member of High Potential, wearing glasses and a light green suit, smiling against a blue background.

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Javicia Leslie at an event, representing the cast of High Potential.

Garret Dillahunt takes on the recurring role of Lieutenant Walter Melon from the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division. Melon is a layered and intriguing character who dwells on not getting to run Soto’s Major Crime division. Audiences will share Soto’s frustration as he regularly reminds her of this fact.Some of the most notable Dillahunt’s roles include John Dorie in Fear the Walking Dead (2015-2023) and Burt Chance in Raising Hope (2010-2014). He’s also appeared in the Oscar-winning films 12 Years a Slave (2013) and No Country for Old Men (2007).

Actor Garret Dillahunt in conversation at an event, wearing a multicolored jacket, representing the cast of High Potential.

JD Pardo joins High Potential in Episode 6 as the handsome and affable Tom, the precinct’s new janitor. Tom’s presence provides the catalyst for a love triangle, including Morgan. Expect to see Tom demonstrate a tremendous act of heroism that will leave a lasting mark on his character and resonate with fans of the show.While speaking toScreen Rant, Daniel Sunjata said this about co-star Pardo: “What JD brings to the show in terms of his talent, his experience, and his amazing bone structure cannot be overestimated. He’s amazing.”Pardo’s talent, experience, and bone structure can also be seen in Revolution (2012-2014), The Terminal List (2022-2024), Roadhouse (2024), and Mayans M.C. (2018-2023).

JD Pardo in a brown suit at SXSW event, representing the cast of High Potential.

Like Addison Timlin, Maurice Marvel Meredith makes a guest appearance in the seventh episode as Army Staff Sergeant Logan Hanson, who is found guilty of murder. Hanson’s sentencing for the murder provides the stimulus for an explosive storyline that finds the rest of the cast in a precarious position.Before his role as Hanson, Meredith primarily featured in minor roles. Most notably, he appeared in one episode of Chicago P.D. (2014-2024) and two episodes of Henry Danger (2014-2020).

Actor Maurice Marvel in a gray shirt sitting at a table, likely from the cast of “High Potential,” looking focused in a dramatic scene.

Merrick McCartha portrays Detective Lavolie in Episode 7. McCartha expressed onInstagramthat his experience on the show was both enjoyable and incredibly productive, thanks to the fantastic cast and crew involved.While primarily in minor supporting roles, McCartha has previously appeared in several other television programs, including NCIS (2003-2024), Criminal Minds (2005-2024), and All American (2018-2024).

Actor Merrick McCartha in a tan blazer and jeans, posing in front of a grey background, part of the “High Potential” cast.

FAQWhat show is High Potential based on?High Potential is based on the French-Belgian television series HPI: Haut Potentiel Intellectuel (2021-2024).Is High Potential a good show?High Potential has captured audiences‘ attention and become a standout hit. With an impressive 7.6/10 rating onIMDbfrom over 12,000 votes, the show continues to gain momentum. In November 2024,Deadlinereported it as ABC’s “Most-Watched New Series in 6 Years,” solidifying its place as a fan favorite.However, while some critics, likeVariety,call the show “perfectly adequate formulaic television,”USA Todaycalled it “comfortingly familiar,” with a script that often feels “tired” or “cliché.”Will there be a Season 2 of High Potential?There has been no official announcement as of today, but given the show’s significant success, the cast and fans hope the show will be renewed.

FAQ

What show is High Potential based on?

High Potential is based on the French-Belgian television series HPI: Haut Potentiel Intellectuel (2021-2024).

Is High Potential a good show?

High Potential has captured audiences‘ attention and become a standout hit. With an impressive 7.6/10 rating onIMDbfrom over 12,000 votes, the show continues to gain momentum. In November 2024,Deadlinereported it as ABC’s “Most-Watched New Series in 6 Years,” solidifying its place as a fan favorite.

However, while some critics, likeVariety,call the show “perfectly adequate formulaic television,”USA Todaycalled it “comfortingly familiar,” with a script that often feels “tired” or “cliché.”

Will there be a Season 2 of High Potential?

There has been no official announcement as of today, but given the show’s significant success, the cast and fans hope the show will be renewed.

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