Apparently, Kaitlin Olson Didn’t Originally Want To Join High Potential, And I Can’t Even Imagine What This Show Would Be Like Without Her

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Network television often faces criticism for being repetitive and lacking in unique content, yet annually, there emerges at least one program that shines like a hidden treasure. Last year, CBS introduced “Elsbeth,” and this season, we welcomed Kaitlin Olson onto ABC’s prime-time schedule with her new series, “High Potential.” Interestingly, the title was quite fitting, but if it were up to Olson herself, she likely wouldn’t have accepted the role.

As a dedicated cinephile looking back, I must say that before landing the role in the freshman drama, it was Drew Goddard –known for his work on Buffy and Lost – who penned the first episode. Remarkably, my agent was reluctant to persuade me to even meet with the network, which seems unbelievable now considering the tremendous success of the freshman season of High Potential. However, I had my reasons for being hesitant, as I revealed during my chat with Conan O’Brien on ‘Needs A Friend.’

Initially, I showed no enthusiasm when they proposed having lunch with me. I responded as if to say, ‘Network drama? Not today, thank you.’ My representative insisted, ‘No, you’re going for lunch with them.’ I was taken aback, asking, ‘Did you just tell me something?’ He replied, ‘Trust me. You’ll read it and want to do it. I’m going to make it happen because I think it will be a great opportunity for you.’ frankly, I had no appetite – firstly, for working with a network. I’ve grown quite accustomed to the freedom FX offers us in terms of creativity and expression.

She persistently refused her agent, explaining that network shows require extensive collaboration compared to her recent roles such as It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (FX) or Hacks (HBO). Given her past experience with networks, which encompassed guest appearances on New Girl and her own series The Mick, which ended abruptly after two seasons, it seemed reasonable for her to decline. However, she eventually decided to read the script.

I struggle when non-creative executives dictate what I can and cannot do, but it’s manageable for now. I feel fortunate to be in a place where I can enjoy both my personal and professional life. Initially, I was hesitant, but then reading Drew Goddard’s script made me feel like I had found the right fit.

Essentially, Kaitlin Olson had plenty of reasons to decline the new TV show, but fortunately, the script somehow found its way to her. Moreover, she’s someone who believes in leaving projects that aren’t satisfactory, which likely gave her confidence, despite apprehensions about returning to network television.

I take pride in my work and only associate myself with projects that meet my high standards. It’s not a bluff or an ultimatum; it’s simply my way of saying ‘No thanks.’ I appreciate your consideration, but I choose to pass on this opportunity for now as it doesn’t align with the quality I strive to produce.

Her primary focus regarding the novel series centered around ensuring viewers would eagerly anticipate each installment, not simply watch one and then quickly forget it. The unique detective character, eccentric wardrobe choices, strong ensemble cast, and numerous Season 1 suspenseful plot twists – such as the enigma surrounding her first husband’s fate – make it challenging to pinpoint a single reason for my weekly interest. Essentially, each episode offers a delightful mix of intrigue.

Although the initial season has concluded (and it feels premature to say that), fortunately, ABC has reaffirmed a second season for High Potential, thereby sparing us from including it among the canceled shows of 2025 up to this point.

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2025-02-21 21:08