ABC's High Potential, starring Kaitlin Olson as a brilliant cleaning lady turned police consultant, has drawn fans to its mix of crime-solving and humor. TVLine has compiled a list of 15 comparable TV series featuring quirky detectives and procedural elements. The recommendations highlight shows blending intelligence, eccentricity, and engaging character dynamics.
High Potential follows Morgan Gillory, portrayed by Kaitlin Olson, a woman with exceptional intelligence who transitions from cleaning jobs to aiding the Los Angeles Police Department on complex homicide cases. Her unconventional approaches often clash with traditional detectives like Adam Karadec, played by Daniel Sunjata, creating a dramedy tone with humor and procedural efficiency.
TVLine's roundup points to series sharing these traits. In Bones, Emily Deschanel plays forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan, a genius partnering with FBI agent Seeley Booth, emphasizing character interactions and lighthearted case resolutions. The Closer features Kyra Sedgwick as LAPD Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, known for her interrogation skills and a supportive ensemble including J.K. Simmons.
Other picks include Elementary, a modern Sherlock Holmes adaptation with Jonny Lee Miller and Lucy Liu as Joan Watson, offering gritty yet warm mysteries. Elsbeth stars Carrie Preston as the bubbly attorney solving crimes in a Columbo-like 'howcatchem' format. The Good Cop pairs Josh Groban's rule-following officer with Tony Danza's reformed corrupt cop for comedic odd-couple dynamics.
The original French-Belgian series HPI, adapted into High Potential, features Audrey Fleurot as a similar high-IQ consultant. Additional suggestions like The Irrational with Jesse L. Martin, Lie to Me starring Tim Roth, and Monk with Tony Shalhoub explore behavioral science, deception detection, and neuroses in crime-solving. Poker Face, Psych, Rizzoli & Isles, The Rookie, The Mentalist, and Suits round out the list, each bringing unique spins on intellect-driven investigations and ensemble chemistry.
These shows provide varied takes on the genre, from cozy puzzles to legal battles, appealing to High Potential viewers seeking more eccentric sleuths and witty narratives.