ABC’s freshman series High Potential has shattered records with its midseason return, emerging as a standout performer in the network’s Tuesday drama lineup, between Will Trent and The Rookie. Starring Kaitlyn Olson (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia), the detective series centers on Morgan, a mother of three and cleaning lady, whose exceptionally high IQ lands her a consulting role with the LAPD on the condition that they help her search for her long-missing first husband.

According to Deadline, High Potential midseason return led ABC’s midseason Tuesday drama lineup. After the release of its January 7 episode, "Obsessed," the show’s viewership has skyrocketed to an impressive 12.9 million viewers after seven days of multi-platform viewing. This milestone marks the series’ best seven-day performance to date and positions it as the strongest seven-day audience for any ABC drama in over four years.

What High Potential’s Record-Breaking Numbers Mean

ABC’s Hit Drama Is Just Getting Started

The midseason return of High Potential reached a new series high with 5.7 million live and same-day viewers, trailing narrowly behind the police drama Will Trent’s season 3 premiere with 5.9 million viewers. However, High Potential ultimately came out on top of ABC's drama lineup, with a record-breaking seven-day run, averaging over 10 million viewers per episode. With such growing popularity, the confirmation of High Potential season 2 feels less like a question of “if” and more a matter of “when.”

High Potential further demonstrated the show’s ability to evolve, shifting focus away from Morgan to spotlight its talented ensemble. In episode 9 ("The Rams"), Detective Daphne (Javicia Leslie), Investigator Oz (Deniz Akdeniz), and Morgan’s partner Karadec (Daniel Sunjata) took center stage, showing the detective drama can stand strong even without its leading lady. As Karadec coordinated an impressive plan, and sweets-obsessed Daphne cracked a critical clue to move the case forward, Morgan took a step back to focus on her family.

Our Take On High Potential’s Viewership Success

A Show That Lives Up to Its Name—And Then Some!

High Potential is quickly establishing itself as one of ABC’s most dynamic shows, thanks to Olson’s comedic touch and a talented ensemble cast. The series expertly balances its gripping mysteries with heartfelt moments, and its recent focus on characters like Karadec, Daphne, and Oz proves it can thrive as more than just a star-driven procedural. With record-breaking ratings and a growing fanbase, a season 2 renewal feels inevitable. High Potential is poised to become a lasting hit with a fresh and engaging take on the network drama formula.

New High Potential episodes air on Tuesdays at 9 pm ET on ABC.

Source: Deadline