High Potential concluded its first season with multiple cliffhangers, leaving viewers eagerly speculating about the enigmatic identity of the primary antagonist. David Giuntoli portrays a character known only by the alias “David,” who becomes the first to evade capture by Morgan Gillory (played by Kaitlin Olson) and her colleagues at the LAPD. This development positions David as a likely repeat offender for the highly anticipated season 2.
Among the numerous cases presented in season 1, David’s story stands out as particularly unsettling, even though it lacks any fatalities. His methods span from trapping victims in safes to withholding life-saving medication, creating scenarios where time is of the essence for survival. Morgan succeeded in outmaneuvering his sinister games during the season finale, yet the dynamic between them hints that she will soon confront the mysterious David again, hopefully unearthing his true identity in the process.
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David Could Be Morgan’s Half-Brother
A Familial Connection?
One compelling theory suggests that David might be a half-sibling to Morgan, a possibility if season 2 unveils details about her father abandoning his family for a new life. This premise relies heavily on a more extensive exploration of Morgan’s background. If her father indeed started a new family, David could emerge as the half-brother she never knew. However, the complexity and intelligence displayed in David’s clues indicate a level of cunning that may not align with Morgan having completely forgotten such a significant relationship.
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David Might Also Be Roman
An Outlandish Theory
The most unusual theory posits that Roman, who mysteriously vanished 15 years before the series began, has reemerged as David. This theory suggests Roman could have undergone significant physical changes, possibly even altering his voice, leading him to adopt a more sinister persona. However, the narrative surrounding Roman’s disappearance does not suggest any violent tendencies. There is little to substantiate the idea that he could transform into a serial kidnapper without leaving any recognizable traces.
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David May Have a Dark Past with Karadec or the LAPD
Seeking Revenge?
A more plausible theory indicates that David possesses a criminal history intertwined with the LAPD. Whether he harbors a grudge against a particular detective, such as Adam Karadec (Daniel Sunjata), or is taking aim at law enforcement in general, David could embody a Joker-like character. Given that he nearly killed Lev “Oz” Ozdil (Deniz Akdeniz), it seems within the realm of possibility that he is motivated by vengeance.
If the narrative delves into a backstory suggesting David was once captured by the police, his return could represent a quest for retribution against those who apprehended him. Nevertheless, considering his penchant for elaborate games, it’s hard to believe investigators wouldn’t recognize his distinctive modus operandi seen during High Potential’s episodes.
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David Could Be a Figure from Morgan’s Childhood
Childhood Grudges
One particularly intriguing possibility theorizes that David is a forgotten acquaintance from Morgan’s formative years. In a narrative shared with Karadec during the season finale, Morgan recounts her alienation at school, influenced by her father’s decision to limit her interactions with peers. This theory proposes that David was one of those childhood friends, and carries resentment stemming from their past.
While the details of Morgan’s backstory remain sketchy, the implications of her childhood experiences could play a significant role. Connections between her experiences and those of her son, Elliot (Matthew Lamb), suggest that Morgan faced social challenges, perhaps even bullying. If David clung to this animosity for years, this dramatic subplot could unfold in unexpectedly engaging ways.
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David Might Be a Complete Stranger
A Fresh Criminal Encounter
The most straightforward explanation regarding David’s identity is that he was simply another criminal introduced in High Potential episode 13 who, after interaction with Morgan, developed an obsession. Although David did seem to specifically target Morgan by the finale, there is no evidence of prior familiarity with her. His sudden fascination appears to be a consequence of the investigation itself.
It’s likely that David had no intention of discovering a worthy rival; instead, he may have been inspired by Morgan’s ability to unearth his puzzles. While future episodes may provide more depth to his character, for now, it seems clear: David is an ordinary serial offender who became increasingly deranged in response to his engagement with a clever adversary. Although this may lack a dramatic twist, the surrounding narrative compensates with intrigue and layers.
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