After three unsuccessful attempts to bring James Patterson’s iconic Alex Cross thriller franchise to life on the big screen, Prime Video is optimistic about finding success on television with the upcoming series “Cross,” featuring Aldis Hodge in the titular role, set to premiere on Thursday.
Aldis Hodge, known for his portrayals in series like “Leverage,” “City on a Hill,” and “Underground,” shared that playing Alex Cross demands exploration of emotional depths he hasn’t previously reached in his career. “We’re going to the deep, dark places… the fun places, the lighthearted places, the emotionally vulnerable places,” Hodge stated, highlighting the show’s commitment to fully developing both the characters and their intertwined narratives beyond just the crime storylines.
The series will delve into Alex Cross’s family dynamics as he navigates his responsibilities as a father to his children, Damon and Janelle, who still struggle with the loss of their mother. Also present in this rich tapestry of characters are his grandmother, Nana Mama, his childhood friend and police partner, John Sampson, and his love interest, Elle, who leads a nonprofit organization.
Showrunner Ben Watkins emphasizes the importance of the series format in allowing a broader storytelling canvas to flesh out Cross’s character and environment. He noted how previous film adaptations often sacrificed character depth for plot within a tight runtime. As Watkins stated, the series will offer an opportunity to combine thrilling narratives with significant character development, asking, “Who is Alex Cross in 2024?”
The legacy of the character dates back to 1997 when Morgan Freeman first portrayed Cross in “Kiss the Girls,” a role he reprised in 2001’s “Along Came a Spider.” Tyler Perry also took on the character in the 2012 film “Alex Cross.” Watkins promises that this new adaptation will convey a version of Cross that is charismatic, physical, and authentically Black, incorporating elements that celebrate his relationships and personal life.
In a striking commentary on contemporary issues, Watkins noted that the series will directly address the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and the Black community, which makes Cross’s identity as a Black detective particularly relevant. Ignoring these complexities would undermine the authenticity of the narrative.
Hodge takes pride in depicting Alex Cross as an involved and loving father, a direct challenge to prevailing stereotypes about fatherhood in the Black community. “That’s something for me that is one of the greatest elements of who he is,” Hodge said, emphasizing the importance of showcasing strong family bonds within the series.
As audiences look forward to this fresh adaptation of a beloved character, “Cross” holds the promise of an engaging mix of thrilling storytelling and poignant character exploration, potentially setting a new standard for adaptations of literary works into television series.