Crossstar Aldis Hodge has addressed whether season 1 of the upcoming thriller TV show will be based on a specificAlex Crossbook written by James Patterson. The forthcomingPrime Video TV showfollows director and forensic psychologist Alex Cross (Hodge) as he investigates a killer he seeks to bring to justice. This will be the fourth adaptation of the Patterson book series, which includes the mixed-reviewed 1997Kiss the Girlsand 2001Along Came a Spider, both starring Morgan Freeman, alongside 2012’sAlex Crosswith Tyler Perry in the role.
Speaking withTV Insider, Hodge revealed the upcoming storyline inCrossseason 1 will not follow a particular book from Patterson’sAlex Crossseries.The actor explained how showrunner Ben Watkins created an original story using the foundational elements of the books. He also revealed more stories than just Alex’s search for a killer, indicating a wider world yet to be explored. Check out what Hodge had to say below:
No. It is based on the foundation of Alex Cross, but Ben [Watkins] takes the bone structure of that world and fills it up with a beautiful story.
We’ll treat the season as if it’s a book with a primary storyline. But there are other stories that establish the journeys of the characters.
What An Original Storyline Means For Cross Season 1
The Show Maintains Unpredictability
Hodge’s confirmation about the show’s story means this will be the first adaptation of Patterson’s series not based on an existing novel. EvenPerry’sAlex Crossmoviewas based on the 2006 novelCross, meaningPrime Video’s rendition will be much different from everything that’s come before.The interview also revealed the series begins 1 year after Alex’s wife Maria gets murdered at a restaurant. He’s also taking care of both his children while investigating cases. Both personal stories will likely be blended with his investigation, impacting the character in ways unseen during the novels.
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It also means the way Alex interacts with other characters could be remixed from the source material. This includes his best friend John Sampson (Isaiah Mustafa) and his grandmother Nana Mama (Juanita Jennings), who no doubt helped him through his grieving process after taking a year off the force.The show is also set to introduce an original character in philanthropist Ed Ramsey (Ryan Eggold), another indicator the series' story is going to be wholly unpredictable, even for book readers.
Our Take On Cross Season 1’s Original Storyline
It Might Be What An Alex Cross Adaptation Needs
Based on the poor critical reception of direct adaptations, a fresh take on the series might be just what the franchise needs to succeed. Although it’s somewhat disappointing thatCrosswon’t be pulling its story directly from one of Patterson’s books,the show now has freedom to offer Easter eggs from across any of the 32 novels.While it’s somewhat unclear what this will mean for the series' story, Hodge’s faith in Watkins means the show will likely do the book series justice regardless.
AlthoughCrossseason 1 won’t begin on Prime Video until Thursday, November 14, season 2 is already almost done filming.
Cross
Cast
Cross follows the life of Alex Cross, a skilled yet troubled homicide detective balancing his role as a devoted father and relentless crime investigator. Haunted by his wife’s murder, he navigates personal turmoil while persistently pursuing justice in the face of dangerous adversaries.
