The character of Alex Cross, the brilliant detective and forensic psychologist created by author James Patterson, has captivated readers for decades. His complex personality and thrilling cases have naturally transitioned to the screen, leaving audiences wondering: Who Plays Alex Cross In The Movies? While the cinematic portrayal of Alex Cross has seen different faces, each actor has brought their own interpretation to this iconic role. This article delves into the history of Alex Cross in film and introduces the latest actor to take on the mantle in the new Prime Video series, Cross.
The most recognizable face associated with Alex Cross is undoubtedly Morgan Freeman. He first brought the character to life in 1997 with Kiss the Girls, based on Patterson’s novel of the same name. Freeman’s gravitas and intelligent demeanor perfectly embodied Cross’s sharp mind and calm intensity. His portrayal was widely praised for capturing the essence of the literary character, establishing a benchmark for future iterations.
Image: Morgan Freeman expertly portrays the intelligent and composed Dr. Alex Cross in a scene from “Kiss the Girls”, setting a high standard for future actors in the role.
Four years later, Freeman reprised the role in 2001’s Along Came a Spider, another adaptation from Patterson’s series. This sequel allowed Freeman to further develop his portrayal of Cross, showcasing his detective skills and empathetic nature as he navigated another complex and dangerous case. For many, Morgan Freeman is Alex Cross, his performance remaining the definitive cinematic representation for over two decades.
Image: Morgan Freeman embodying the thoughtful and determined Alex Cross in “Along Came a Spider”, reinforcing his iconic portrayal of the character for movie audiences.
However, the role of Alex Cross was revisited in 2012 with a different actor stepping into the shoes of the famed detective. Tyler Perry, known for his Madea franchise, took on the role in Alex Cross. This film aimed for a younger, more action-oriented take on the character. Perry’s casting was a departure from Freeman’s established portrayal, offering a different interpretation that resonated with some audiences while diverging from the established cinematic image of Cross for others.
Image: Tyler Perry in a dynamic pose as Alex Cross in the 2012 “Alex Cross” movie, showcasing a different, more action-focused interpretation of the character.
Now, in 2024, Alex Cross is back, not on the big screen, but in a highly anticipated Prime Video series titled Cross. This time, Aldis Hodge takes on the lead role, bringing a fresh and compelling perspective to the character. For showrunner Ben Watkins, Hodge was a perfect fit, even before the actor was officially cast. Watkins recalls being impressed by Hodge’s presence and demeanor years before, noting his “insatiable curiosity, keen intellect, a depth” and “great physical presence and a charisma.”
Image: Aldis Hodge embodying the multifaceted Alex Cross in promotional material for the “Cross” Prime Video series, hinting at a deeper exploration of the character.
Hodge himself feels a deep connection to the role. “This role is about the closest to who I am inside that I’ve ever been allowed to display,” he reveals. This personal connection, combined with Watkins’ vision, promises a portrayal of Alex Cross that is both true to the source material and refreshingly modern. The series format allows for a deeper exploration of Cross’s character, delving into the complexities of his mind as he “digs into the minds of killers and victims,” as described in the show’s premise.
The Cross series is not just about catching criminals; it’s also about the relationships that define Alex Cross. Watkins emphasizes the importance of Cross’s friendship with John Samson, played by Isaiah Mustafa, highlighting it as a “core relationship” and a “love story” between friends. This focus on character relationships adds another layer to the series, making it more than just a crime procedural.
Image: Aldis Hodge alongside Isaiah Mustafa as John Sampson in “Cross”, highlighting the significant friendship at the heart of the series.
So, while Morgan Freeman and Tyler Perry have previously answered the question of “who plays Alex Cross in the movies,” Aldis Hodge is now stepping into the role, expanding the character’s reach to television. With a fresh series format and a dedicated actor at the helm, Cross on Prime Video offers a new chapter for fans of Alex Cross and promises to deliver a thrilling and engaging experience. For those curious to see the latest interpretation of James Patterson’s iconic detective, Cross is a must-watch.
