ABC’s High Potential has captivated audiences with its blend of crime-solving, humor, and heartfelt family drama. One of the show’s standout performances comes from Amirah J, who plays Ava, a strong-willed and rebellious teenager navigating life with her unconventional mother, Morgan, played by Kaitlin Olson. In this exclusive interview with Pop Culture Unplugged, Amirah J shares insights into her character, the emotional depth of the series, and what fans can expect from the upcoming season finale.
A Show Winning Over Fans
With High Potential breaking records and garnering widespread praise, Amirah J is thrilled to be part of the phenomenon.
“I love it,” she said about the show’s growing popularity. “Looking at all of the fans' reactions and the numbers it’s breaking, it’s so crazy to see. I love the show, my castmates, the crew, the writers—everyone has been so amazing to work with.”
The buzz surrounding High Potential is evident, with fans taking to Reddit and social media to dissect every episode. Amirah J has been keeping up with the conversation and is grateful for the enthusiasm.
Bringing Ava to Life
Ava is more than just a rebellious teen—she’s a complex young woman grappling with feelings of isolation, the mystery surrounding her father, and her place within her unconventional family. For Amirah, playing Ava has been both relatable and challenging.
“I feel like I can relate to her in some ways,” she shared. “We’re both teenage girls, so there are definitely things I understand. But she’s had a much different upbringing than I have. She’s trying to find her footing in her family, dealing with not knowing if her dad is alive, and figuring out her connection to her mother. My goal was to make all of that feel as real and grounded as possible.”
When asked what she loves most about Ava, Amirah didn’t hesitate:
“I love her fashion! It’s so different from mine in real life, so it feels like playing dress-up on set.”
However, despite Ava’s flaws, Amirah wouldn’t change a thing about her.
“All of her quirks and flaws make her who she is,” she explained. “That’s what makes her an interesting and relatable character.”
The Mother-Daughter Dynamic
One of the most compelling aspects of High Potential is the evolving relationship between Ava and her mother, Morgan. Amirah shared that her real-life bond with Kaitlin Olson helped bring that connection to life on-screen.
“As the season went on, our relationship and chemistry grew,” she said. “Kaitlin would even ask for my input on certain lines, like ‘Would you really say it this way?’ or ‘Would you react this way?’ She made it feel collaborative and real. And because she’s a mother in real life, she naturally brings a nurturing energy that makes it feel even more authentic.”
The Impact of Her Father’s Storyline
The revelation about Ava’s father, Roman, has been a major emotional arc for her character.
“It’s definitely hard for Ava,” Amirah said. “She sees her younger siblings as having it all—both of their parents, plus they share their mom’s intelligence. Ava feels like an outcast in her own family. But learning that her dad didn’t just abandon her gives her hope. Maybe she can have that connection she’s always wanted.”
The Midseason Finale and What’s Next
The midseason finale was an emotional rollercoaster, and for Amirah, it was one of the highlights of filming the season.
“I was so excited,” she said. “I love intense, dramatic scenes because they let me showcase my work. That episode was a big moment for Ava, and I loved every second of filming it.”
The anticipation of filming key episodes is one of her favorite parts of the job.
“I love reading the scripts and thinking, ‘Oh my God, I can’t wait to film this,’” she said. “The midseason finale had such an incredible vision behind it. The director was amazing and super collaborative, which made it one of my favorite episodes to shoot.”
As for Ava’s journey throughout the season, Amirah described it as one of personal growth.
“She learns how to be more vulnerable and accept the life she has,” she explained. “She grows closer to her siblings, her stepfather, and finally starts accepting him as a father figure.”
Fan Reactions and Looking Toward the Finale
The response to Ava’s storyline has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans relating to her struggles and emotions.
“My teachers and even my school’s dean have come up to me about the show,” she revealed. “One of them told me they don’t usually comment on students’ work, but they were really moved by an episode. It’s incredible to see how much people connect with it.”
With the season finale approaching, Amirah teased that fans will finally get answers about Ava’s father.
“We’ll learn more about her dad, and we’ll see Ava connect with her family in a new way,” she said. “It’s a really beautiful way to wrap up the season.”
Hopes for Season 2
If High Potential gets a second season, Amirah hopes to explore Ava’s past more deeply.
“I’d love to dive into her childhood—what it was like when it was just her and Morgan before her siblings came along,” she said. “I want to see how those years shaped her and why she is the way she is.”
Favorite Character (Besides Ava)
When asked who her favorite High Potential character is—aside from Ava—Amirah had an easy answer.
“Lieutenant Soto,” she said. “I love her character, and I hope they dive more into her backstory in Season 2.”
What’s Next for Amirah J?
While High Potential has opened new doors for Amirah, she’s eager to take on new projects.
“I’m auditioning and looking for my next opportunity,” she said. “I’d love to do a movie soon. This show has given me so many incredible experiences, and I’m just excited for whatever comes next.”
Stay Connected with Amirah J
Want to keep up with Amirah J? Follow her on social media:
📷 Instagram: @theamirahj
Final Thoughts
Amirah J has brought depth, emotion, and authenticity to Ava on High Potential, making her one of the standout young stars on television today. As the season finale approaches, fans can look forward to even more twists, heartfelt moments, and the possibility of a second season.
One thing is for sure—Amirah J is just getting started.
High Potential airs on ABC. Don’t miss the season finale!