Image from the series HPI on TF1.
Turning a cleaning lady with the attitude of a “Miss Know-It-All” (Madame Je-Sais-Tout) into a beloved investigator was far from a guaranteed success.
Yet, Morgane Alvaro, the main character of HPI (High Intellectual Potential), rose to the challenge—and how! This series, launched by TF1, has now become a global television phenomenon.
HPI – a national success turned international hit
When HPI debuted on TF1 in 2021, it became an instant success. Starring Audrey Fleurot (Spiral, Call My Agent!), the series follows Morgane Alvaro, a cleaning lady with a 160 IQ, helping police solve cases. With 12.4 million viewers at its peak, it became TF1’s most-watched show in 18 years. 51.5 million French people would have been in contact with this series (i.e. 76% of the populations).
HPI quickly went global, airing in 105 territories and amassing over 280 million views. Five European nations, including Czechia, Slovakia, Poland, Greece, and Hungary, have created their own versions of HPI. The American remake, High Potential, has been particularly successful, attracting 11.5 million viewers across ABC, Hulu, and Disney+, became Hulu’s #1 show by September 2024.
This success earned the series the Unifrance prize in 2023 and also an International Emmy nomination.
Why HPI successfully breaches traditional narratives
A relatable, yet extraordinary lead character: At the heart of HPI’s success is Morgane Alvaro. While her extraordinary intellect sets her apart, her down-to-earth struggles — from parenting three kids to navigating work and love — make her relatable. Her brilliance combined with her unconventional methods flips the traditional “genius detective” trope on its head. Morgane isn’t a stoic, brooding archetype like Sherlock Holmes; she’s loud, messy, and unapologetically herself. This refreshing twist redefines the crime genre, making it accessible and enjoyable for viewers who might not typically gravitate toward police procedurals.
Balance of humor and mystery: While the cases Morgane tackles are gripping, the show never takes itself too seriously. The humor — often driven by Morgane’s unfiltered personality and her clashes with the more by-the-book police team — creates a lighter tone that appeals to a broader audience. This balance makes HPI easy to binge. The crime-solving aspect keeps viewers intrigued, while the comedic moments provide a refreshing break from the tension often associated with traditional detective shows.
The global success of HPI is not just a triumph for TF1 but a sign of the growing demand for diverse, innovative storytelling.
HPI proves that audiences crave relatable, character-driven stories that defy convention.
If you’re a filmmaker seeking bold, innovative themes, let’s connect!
