Nicolas Jean, ‘High Potential’ co-creator, honored by ABC with touching tribute after death

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By: Daniel Harris

The cast and crew of ABC’s High Potential honored the memory of Nicolas Jean, the visionary co-creator of the original French series that inspired the beloved crime drama. The touching tribute aired on October 28, 2025, in Season 2, Episode 7. A title card reading “In Memory of Nicolas Jean” appeared during the closing credits. The French screenwriter, age 63, passed away suddenly on September 29, 2025.

🔥 Quick Facts:

  • Nicolas Jean co-created HPI: Haut Potential Intellectuel, the original French series that inspired High Potential
  • He died unexpectedly on September 29, 2025, at age 63
  • The tribute aired in Season 2, Episode 7 (“The One That Got Away”) on October 28, 2025
  • Nicolas Jean was self-taught with an atypical background that enriched his creative storytelling
  • ABC’s High Potential has become one of the network’s most-watched new shows since its premiere in September 2024

How ABC Honored the Creator’s Legacy

High Potential on ABC featured an on-screen dedication in the closing credits. The title card simply read “In Memory of Nicolas Jean.” This heartfelt gesture acknowledged Jean’s immense contributions to the series. The tribute appeared during the mid-season finale episode.

The episode, titled “The One That Got Away,” followed LAPD civilian consultant Morgan Gillroy as she investigated a $20 million art theft case. Kaitlin Olson stars as the brilliant lead character. The cast also includes Daniel Sunjata, Javicia Leslie, and Steve Howey in major roles. The dedication provided a solemn moment for viewers.

“Nicolas Jean entered the industry thirteen years ago and had a meteoric rise. Self-taught, with an atypical background that enriched his fictional stories, he quickly established himself as a talented and essential screenwriter on television.”

Florence Philipponnat, Screenwriter and SACD Administrator

Nicolas Jean’s Remarkable Creative Vision

Nicolas Jean was a French screenwriter and self-taught artist. He possessed an extraordinary gift for creating original concepts. His work co-created HPI with Stéphane Carrié and Alice Chegaray-Breugnot. The original series premiered in 2021 and became a massive hit across Europe.

Jean’s creative approach refused conventional constraints. He excelled at surrounding himself with talented writers. His collaborative spirit and generosity defined his professional relationships. The French writers guild SACD announced his sudden passing on October 7, 2025, after he died September 29. No cause of death was disclosed.

Jean knew how to develop original concepts with remarkable skill and passion. Florence Philipponnat emphasized in her tribute that he was “passionate about sharing and generosity.” His impact extended far beyond French television. He influenced storytelling across continents through his groundbreaking work.

From French Success to American Adaptation

Series Details Information
Original Series (French) HPI: Haut Potential Intellectuel (High Intellectual Potential)
Premiere Date 2021 (France), September 2024 (ABC)
U.S. Star Kaitlin Olson as Morgan Gillroy
Co-Creators Nicolas Jean, Stéphane Carrié, Alice Chegaray-Breugnot
Streaming (French Version) Hulu as “HIP: High Intellectual Potential”
Network Status One of ABC’s most-watched shows in 2024-2025

The French original HPI ran for five seasons and aired 38 episodes total. It captivated audiences across Europe with its unique premise. Morgan Gillroy is a brilliant civilian consultant with exceptional problem-solving abilities. Her unconventional talents help the LAPD solve complex crimes.

ABC’s North American adaptation premiered in September 2024 and immediately became a ratings success. The show introduces viewers to sophisticated crime-solving through a fresh, engaging lens. Kaitlin Olson’s portrayal as Morgan resonates with audiences nationwide. The supporting cast brings depth and chemistry to every episode.

What Fans and Industry Colleagues Remember

  • Creative Innovation: Nicolas Jean pioneered storytelling approaches previously unseen in television
  • Self-Taught Excellence: His unconventional background enriched his fictional narratives immensely
  • Collaborative Spirit: He surrounded himself with talented creative writers willing to develop concepts together
  • Generous Leadership: His passion for sharing knowledge inspired colleagues and elevated entire teams
  • Global Impact: His work transcended borders, creating a successful international adaptation phenomenon

Jean’s passing represents a significant loss to the entertainment industry. His original concepts changed how audiences perceive crime dramas. The High Potential tribute honor acknowledges his foundational contributions to both versions of the series.

Why This Tribute Matters to Viewers

Television tributes like this represent more than simple remembrances. They acknowledge the creators who shape beloved entertainment. Nicolas Jean created the foundation that Kaitlin Olson and the entire cast build upon. His vision established the character dynamics audiences adore.

The mid-season finale tribute reminds viewers of Jean’s influence on their favorite show. Without his original concept and creative genius, High Potential wouldn’t captivate millions. The gesture honors his family and those who knew him professionally.

Industry observers note that tributes like this strengthen fan emotional connections to shows. Viewers appreciate seeing real human recognition in fictional narratives. The October 28 dedication sparked meaningful conversations about Nicolas Jean‘s lasting legacy across social media platforms and entertainment news outlets.

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