This TV story follows a classic trope: a brilliant problem-solver encounters a no-nonsense detective who needs help cracking cases. Instead of love at first sight, it’s more about solving crimes right from the first murder. Their chemistry is electric, leading to satisfying conclusions—at least until another crime occurs the following week.

Continuing this beloved TV tradition, ABC presents “High Potential” (Tuesdays, 10 EDT/PDT, ★★★ out of four), a cop-and-consultant comedy that has the potential to join the ranks of the most popular shows. Based on a French series, “Potential” is somewhat silly and follows a familiar formula but is undeniably entertaining. It brings a light-hearted detective dramedy vibe at a time when most shows are dark and serious, such as endless “Chicago” spin-offs and “Law & Orders.” Created by Drew Goddard, known for “The Good Place” and “The Martian,” and starring Kaitlin Olson from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” “Potential” could fill a cozy crime-solving void we didn’t know we were missing.

In this odd-couple dynamic, the brainy one is Morgan (Olson), a single mother of three kids who possesses a “high intellectual potential,” yet her quirky nature has led her to be fired or quit from every job she’s held. She accidentally falls into her role as a police consultant when she ventures too far beyond her responsibilities as a janitor at the precinct, eventually gaining the attention of her boss, Officer Selena (Judy Reyes, “Scrubs”). It feels reminiscent of “Good Will Hunting,” but with Olson dancing along to pop songs while sporting leopard prints.

Morgan finds herself working alongside Detective Karadec (Daniel Sunjata, “Rescue Me”), a classic grumpy police officer whose strict adherence to the rules initially makes him resistant to her help. However, as Morgan showcases her knack for trivia and keen observation skills that prove essential in apprehending criminals, he reluctantly begins to appreciate her. Unfortunately, he has to endure her unconventional methods, which include bringing her baby to crime scenes and “borrowing” evidence to analyze at home.

The pairing of these two mismatched characters works brilliantly, as they dive into various cases fueled by their shared crime-fighting passion. Morgan’s journey is also supported by her ex (Taran Killam), who takes on the role of primary caregiver for her three children: a teenager (Amirah Johnson), a preteen (Matthew Lamb), and an infant.

The initial episodes follow a simple pattern, especially in the first three provided for review. Morgan and Karadec quickly develop a rhythm, with the actors displaying great chemistry through their personal quirks. The writing strikes a nice balance between weekly cases and a larger storyline in which Morgan and Selena investigate the 15-year-old unsolved disappearance of Morgan’s boyfriend.

Everything about “Potential” feels effortless. Unlike many stiff and forced network dramas that lack engaging characters, charm, or even interesting crimes, “Potential” stands out as a joyful experience, borrowing the sunny vibes from cop classics like “Monk,” “Lucifer,” and “Psych.” The murders seem a little less heinous because everyone involved is having such a delightful time chasing down the villains.

A show as straightforward as “Potential” can offer a comforting familiarity or come across as stale and clichéd. However, the charm of Olson and Goddard’s snappy writing usually keeps “Potential” from feeling like just a rehash of its predecessors. Whether you’ll embrace another quirky crime-solving genius in your weekly lineup may depend on your personal preferences for this TV subgenre. Is Morgan endearing or just a nuisance?

Your perspective might see her as both.