Spoilers for Quantum Leap season 2, episode 3
Summary
In season 2 of Quantum Leap, a new character named Hannah is introduced. Unlike Ben, she is not a time traveler, but there is a possibility that she may become a leaper in the future.
In order to enhance the emotional aspects and create external challenges that affect the entire team, the showrunners made the decision to hold off on introducing another leaper at this time.
Hannah's addition reveals a new facet of Eliza Taylor's acting prowess, highlighting her talent outside of her role in The 100.
The co-showrunners of Quantum Leap discuss the possibility of introducing additional leapers apart from Ben. In the second season, several significant characters have been introduced, including Hannah Carson portrayed by Eliza Taylor (known for her role in The 100). Making her debut in season 2, episode 3, Hannah is portrayed as a brilliant woman in 1949. Some speculation suggests that, similar to the main character Ben Song (played by Raymond Lee), Hannah might also possess the ability to leap through time.
In regards to the recent developments in Quantum Leap season 2, Martin Gero clarifies that Hannah does not possess the ability to travel through time, as revealed in his comments to TVLine. Additionally, showrunner Dean Georgaris expounds on the decision to not introduce another leaper on the show at this time. Georgaris elaborates on the rationale behind this choice in the following quote:
GERO: "Through her portrayal, you get to witness a distinct aspect of [Eliza's] talent that was not previously showcased in her character on The 100. While she is undeniably outstanding, she does not possess the capability of traveling through time."
Hannah May Not Be A Leaper (But There's Potential With Her & Ben)
GEORGARIS: "To generate a wide range of emotional states, it is essential that even the external threats faced by our program affect our entire team. Last season, we utilized Leaper X in a highly thrilling and effective manner. We had four incredibly talented actors observing a screen and guiding Ben on how to respond to the threats. This year, everyone is actively involved in every aspect of the show, experiencing all the emotional highs and lows and encountering all the challenges together."Hannah May Not Be A Leaper (But There's Potential With Her & Ben)
Hannah is initially introduced as a waitress in 1949. She possesses a strong educational background in mathematics and physics and also contributed to the war effort in World War II by working on the inaugural electromechanical computer. Her bond with Ben becomes pivotal as he directs her towards a Princeton professor who intends to establish a novel physics program exclusively for women. This guidance aids Hannah in realizing her aspirations.Interestingly enough, Hannah doesn't bid farewell like a typical one-off character. In fact, as Ben attempts to say his goodbyes, there is a sense of confidence in her that they will cross paths again. Despite not possessing Ben's ability to leap through time, it is highly likely that Hannah will have a significant impact on the events of Quantum Leap season 2, particularly in relation to Addison and Ben's personal struggles.
The two have faced various challenges arising from Ben's sudden three-year absence and presumed death. Although they have been reunited, tensions still linger. In one instance during episode 3 of Quantum Leap season 2, Ben suggests that Addison had given up on him once before, referring to his three-year gap. The introduction of a new character, who shares a connection with Ben and potentially possesses hidden knowledge, only further complicates the situation.
Source: TVLine