8 Detective Shows With Big Season 2 Potential

High Potential’s Unique Identity and Its Inspirations

High Potential has quickly become a standout series on ABC, captivating audiences with its fresh take on the procedural genre. The show's success is largely due to Kaitlin Olson's stellar performance as Morgan Gillory, whose unique approach to solving crimes sets the show apart. One of the most memorable episodes of the first season was an homage to another beloved series, showcasing how High Potential can blend creativity with tribute.

A Connection to Psych

Before High Potential even premiered, it was compared to USA Network's Psych, which also features a quirky detective with a knack for solving cases in unconventional ways. This connection was solidified in the season 1 finale when James Roday Rodriguez, who played Shawn Spencer in Psych, directed an episode of High Potential. This crossover not only highlighted the similarities between the two shows but also set the stage for future tributes in season 2.

Veronica Mars: A New Chapter

Veronica Mars, another iconic series, shares some parallels with High Potential. Both shows feature strong, independent female leads who navigate complex mysteries. While Veronica Mars originally aired from 2004 to 2007, it gained a new life with a fourth season on Hulu. Rob Thomas, the creator of Veronica Mars, now works on High Potential, making a potential tribute or crossover more plausible. Fans would love to see Kristen Bell make a cameo, but even subtle nods to the Y2K hit could be equally engaging.

Castle: A New Twist on Crime

Castle, known for its blend of crime-solving and romance, offers a different perspective that High Potential could explore. The show's premise of a novelist assisting the police in solving crimes could inspire a similar storyline for Morgan. Perhaps a crime novelist could shadow her, leading to a twist or a clever homage that adds depth to the narrative.

Agatha Christie's Poirot: A Classic Influence

Agatha Christie's Poirot, with its long-running series and iconic portrayal by David Suchet, presents another opportunity for High Potential to pay tribute. Incorporating elements of Poirot's style, such as psychological insights and attention to detail, could enrich the show's storytelling. An episode set in a period piece or featuring a classic mystery could provide a nostalgic yet fresh experience for viewers.

The X-Files: Embracing the Supernatural

The X-Files, known for its blend of science fiction and procedural elements, offers a different kind of inspiration. High Potential could incorporate a case that seems supernatural, challenging Morgan to uncover a deeper conspiracy. This approach would add an element of mystery and intrigue, keeping viewers engaged with unexpected twists.

Columbo: A Timeless Detective

Columbo, a groundbreaking series that redefined the procedural genre, introduced the concept of revealing the killer early on. High Potential could pay homage by referencing Columbo's catchphrase, "Just one more thing..." This nod would not only honor the classic series but also add a layer of nostalgia for long-time fans.

Twin Peaks: A Surreal Experience

Twin Peaks, with its surreal and often unsettling atmosphere, presents a challenge for High Potential. If the show were to draw inspiration from Twin Peaks, it would need to fully commit to the surreal elements, potentially incorporating dream sequences or hallucinations that reflect the show's unique style.

Criminal Minds: Delving into Dark Realities

Criminal Minds, known for its intense exploration of criminal psyches, offers a different tone that High Potential could experiment with. While the shows differ in style, a potential crossover could provide a fascinating mix of narratives, especially if the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit becomes involved in future cases.

Psych: A Full-Circle Moment

Finally, there's no better tribute than to honor Psych itself. With James Roday Rodriguez returning as a director in season 2, the possibility of a direct reference feels inevitable. Paying tribute to Shawn Spencer would create a full-circle moment, allowing the king of references to become a reference himself, adding a layer of appreciation for fans of both shows.