Why the Team Behind Cross Chose Not to Directly Adapt the Alex Cross Novels

Why the Team Behind Cross Chose Not to Directly Adapt the Alex Cross Novels

Why the Team Behind Cross Chose Not to Directly Adapt the Alex Cross Novels

Ben Watkins, Aldis Hodge, Isaiah Mustafa, and James Patterson share insights on the new Prime Video series.

Aldis Hodge has essentially been auditioning for the role of Alex Cross since his teenage years. Growing up in a Los Angeles basketball league populated by entertainment industry insiders, Hodge caught the attention of writer Ben Watkins, who later created Cross. “I made a mental note of Aldis and his brother Edwin,” Watkins recalls. “They navigated an environment filled with egos and success with a remarkable blend of respect and self-awareness, which was impressive for their age.”

As Watkins took on the role of showrunner for Cross, a series based on James Patterson’s popular Alex Cross novels, Hodge was an obvious choice for the lead. “I recognized Aldis’s natural observance, which is perfect for this role,” Watkins says. “He brings swagger, intellect, and edge, and he exceeded my expectations when we met.”

Hodge saw in the character the qualities he wanted to portray: coolness, intelligence, and a strong ethical foundation. However, taking on the role of Alex Cross isn’t just another acting gig. The character has been a staple in Patterson’s novels for over 30 years and has been portrayed by both Morgan Freeman and Tyler Perry, which brings high expectations.

“I dove deep into the books and rewatched the films, noting what aspects were underrepresented,” Watkins explains. This list shaped the key elements for the series, including the setting in Washington D.C., Alex’s struggle with his wife’s murder, insights into the villain’s perspective, and the vital friendship with John Sampson, who provides unwavering support.

“If you only know the movies, you might not be aware of Sampson’s depth,” Watkins notes. “In the books, their relationship is intricate and comforting. They’re inseparable, and I knew that dynamic had to be central to the show.”

For the role of Sampson, Hodge was instrumental in the casting decision, leading to Isaiah Mustafa being chosen. “He’s my guy,” Hodge says. “Their friendship explains much of Alex’s character, making it essential to the story. If you know Cross, you have to know Sampson.”

Sampson serves as both confidant and advisor, providing unfiltered support to Alex. “Their brotherhood is unique, especially between two African American characters, and we wanted to emphasize that bond,” Mustafa adds.

The series aims to capture the essence of Patterson’s novels rather than serve as a direct adaptation. “I decided early on that none of the seasons would be based on the books,” Watkins states. “It was crucial to offer fans a fresh perspective while honoring the characters and their world.”

Patterson welcomed this creative approach. “I always prefer new stories over direct adaptations,” he explains. “I hoped the show would be a breakthrough, and it has been.”

Hodge brings a contemporary lens to the character of Alex Cross, navigating the complexities of being a Black detective in today’s society. “He understands the challenges and moral dilemmas involved,” Hodge says. “He often finds himself caught between enforcing policy and respecting his community, aware that without his badge, he could easily be on the other side of the law.”

Watkins emphasizes the series won’t shy away from difficult conversations surrounding law enforcement and the Black community. “We’re not here to preach but to present a balanced perspective,” he asserts. “One of our goals in the writers’ room was to ensure both sides of the debate are represented.”

“This first season will authentically portray the complicated relationship between law enforcement and the Black community,” Watkins continues. “Our protagonist is a detective, so if we’re having this conversation, it must be a comprehensive one.”

Interestingly, Cross has already been renewed for a second season even before its premiere, thanks to the strong fanbase. However, Watkins assures viewers that season one will have its own satisfying conclusion. “We’re crafting a mystery each season, ensuring a complete story arc at the end,” he explains.

As with the novels, many characters are set to endure over time. “We want viewers to be drawn in by the mysteries, but to stay for the characters,” Watkins says.

Cross premieres on Prime Video on Thursday, November 14.

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