“ABC’s bold return to character-driven storytelling shows that traditional TV isn’t dead—it’s just been waiting for the right shows to lead the way.”
In a streaming-first era, few expected ABC to top the charts in 2024–2025. But thanks to two unexpected breakout hits “High Potential and Shifting Gears” , the network not only survived but thrived. ABC kicked off the 2024-2025 season strong with new shows High Potential and Shifting Gears driving their ratings resurgence. These two shows helped ABC claim 5 of the top 10 multiplatform scripted programs, marking one of the boldest network comebacks in recent years.
High Potential and Shifting Gears Anchor ABC’s Ratings Revival
ABC’s ratings resurgence was powered by its strategic focus on compelling characters, flexible streaming availability, and viewer-first scheduling. At the center of that success? High Potential and Shifting Gears have topped the charts as ABC’s most-watched new drama and comedy series.
High Potential: Kaitlin Olson’s Career-Best Performance
Among all new TV dramas, High Potential stood out as ABC’s top new scripted series across platforms.
- 3.85 demo rating (18–49)
- 11.53 million average viewers, peaking at 13.19 million in the finale
- +354% Live+3 growth
- Season 2 returns Fall 2025, Tuesdays at 10 PM ET
High Potential stars Kaitlin Olson as Morgan, a brilliant mom with a photographic memory, bringing a mix of humor, heart, and intriguing mysteries to US screens in an adaptation of the French series HPI.
Thanks to strong multiplatform performance and social buzz, High Potential helped redefine the future of procedural storytelling for ABC.
Shifting Gears: Tim Allen’s Sitcom Comeback Hits Top Speed
Meanwhile, Shifting Gears brought heart and humor back to ABC’s comedy lineup—surpassing expectations across all viewing formats.
- 2.39 demo rating
- 11.4 million viewers (up from 6.2M live at premiere)
- ABC’s highest-rated new comedy
- Season 2 greenlit for 2025–26
Shifting Gears, set in Detroit, follows Tim Allen’s character, a working-class dad, as he navigates family dynamics, co-parenting, and generational differences with his adult kids and ex-wife.
High Potential and Shifting Gears combined to strengthen ABC’s lead in multiplatform viewership during the 2024-2025 season.
How High Potential and Shifting Gears Transformed ABC
With High Potential and Shifting Gears at the forefront, ABC finished the season with five top-tier hits:
- High Potential
- Shifting Gears
- The Rookie
- Abbott Elementary
- 9-1-1
These results weren’t accidental. ABC capitalized on viewer trends with smart scheduling, strong Hulu integration, and emotional, relatable storytelling.
The strategy worked—bringing both critical recognition and mass viewership across age groups.
Character Wins Over Gimmicks
The success of High Potential and Shifting Gears proves that audiences still crave smart, character-driven stories—whether it’s a quirky crime-solving genius or a flawed-but-lovable family man. ABC’s commitment to these shows wasn’t just a ratings gamble , it was a creative victory. In a landscape ruled by streaming algorithms, ABC found its edge again by focusing on people, not just platforms.
As High Potential and Shifting Gears return for new seasons, ABC looks poised to carry its momentum well into 2025–2026 and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- High Potential is ABC’s #1 new drama by total multiplatform viewers
- Shifting Gears became ABC’s most-watched new comedy
- Both shows return for the 2025–26 season
- Focused storytelling and Hulu synergy drove success
- ABC now ranks among the top networks for scripted content
- High Potential and Shifting Gears led ABC’s multiplatform surge
FAQ
Q1: Is High Potential returning?
Yes. Season 2 airs Tuesdays at 10 PM ET starting Fall 2025.
Q2: Was Shifting Gears almost canceled?
It had a modest premiere, but strong multiplatform growth saved it—and now it’s a ratings winner.
Q3: Where can I stream these shows?
Both High Potential and Shifting Gears stream on Hulu (U.S.), and may be available on Disney+ in some regions.
