Renowned author James Patterson’s acclaimed Cross book series has transitioned to the screen, making its debut on Amazon Prime Video. The gripping mystery thriller is centered around Alex Cross, a Washington D.C. detective who utilizes his expertise in forensic psychology to delve into the minds of criminals and tackle some of the city’s most challenging cases. This marks yet another adaptation of Patterson’s iconic character, who has been a favorite among fans for years.
Unlike the established Alex Cross films such as Kiss the Girls (1997) and Along Came a Spider (2001), this television series opts for a fresh narrative perspective, using the character merely as a catalyst for original storytelling. This innovative approach, which refrains from closely adapting any specific Cross novel, distinguishes the series from contemporaries like Reacher, which meticulously follows the plotlines of the books. Demonstrating confidence in the show’s potential, Amazon Prime Video has already greenlit a second season even before the first season aired.
Latest Updates on Cross Season 2
Completion of Season 2 Filming
With the series quickly gaining traction, it has been confirmed that filming for Cross season 2 has concluded. The renewal announcement for the second season occurred nearly a month prior to the debut of the first season on Prime Video, indicating Amazon’s enthusiasm to cultivate interest in the series. While specifics about the new episodes are still under wraps, it is evident that the platform is eager to maintain viewer engagement with an expedited release cycle.
Despite the lack of an official release date for season 2, it’s unlikely to premiere simultaneously with the debut of season 1. As streaming services often favor lengthy production schedules, Amazon appears committed to defying that trend by aiming for a yearly release timeline. This strategy is pivotal for the series, allowing it to retain a consistent schedule amidst the challenges of modern television production. During the New York Comic Con in October 2024, creator Ben Watkins provided a hint at the upcoming season:
“I just want to preface this by saying if you do have something [you want from season 2], I hope that it will be something you did see, because it’s already shot.”
Confirmation of Cross Season 2
Amazon’s Early Commitment
Fans of the series can rest easy knowing that Amazon Prime Video announced the renewal for season 2 well before the first season premiered. This announcement came as early as May 2024, long before audiences had even experienced the thrilling narrative of season 1, indicating that Amazon was planning for a two-season arc from the beginning.
Season 1 officially premiered on November 14, 2024, setting a new pace for production in comparison to typical long-running series. With filming for season 2 already completed, the show is moving through post-production, positioning the next season for a timely release. While no specific date has been confirmed, season 2 may drop in the fall, following its predecessor, or potentially in late summer 2025.
For reference, here’s a breakdown of previous adaptations of James Patterson’s Alex Cross character:
| Title | Release Year | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|
| Kiss the Girls | 1997 | 34% |
| Along Came a Spider | 2001 | 32% |
| Alex Cross | 2012 | 11% |
| Cross Season 1 | 2024 | 76% |
Cast Information for Cross Season 2
New Additions to the Cast
The ensemble cast of Cross is expected to feature both returning members and intriguing new faces. Aldis Hodge takes center stage as Alex Cross, infusing the role with depth and complexity not seen in prior adaptations. He is joined by Isaiah Mustafa as his loyal partner, Detective John Sampson, whose relationship with Cross is pivotal to the storyline. The personal life of Cross, shaped by the loss of his wife, will also be explored through the lens of his children’s lives.
Both Hodge and Mustafa have confirmed their return for season 2 amid reports of the expanding cast. New talent has been brought on board, including Matthew Lillard, known for Scream and Five Nights at Freddy’s, who will portray Lance, a formidable business tycoon. Additionally, Jeanine Mason from Roswell, New Mexico will assume the role of a vengeful judge named Rebecca, and Wes Chatham, recognized from The Expanse, will portray Donnie, a military veteran turned farmer.
The confirmed cast list for Cross season 2 includes:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Aldis Hodge | Alex Cross |
| Isaiah Mustafa | John Sampson |
| Juanita Jennings | Regina Cross |
| Melody Hurd | Janelle Cross |
| Caleb Elijah | Damon Cross |
| Alona Tal | Kayla Craig |
| Matthew Lillard | Lance |
| Jeanine Mason | Rebecca |
| Wes Chatham | Donnie |
Storyline Insights for Cross Season 2
Unfinished Business
While specific plot points remain to be fully unveiled, the finale of season 1 effectively sets the stage for the events of season 2. Cross and his team successfully apprehended the notorious “Fanboy”killer, an achievement marred by the destruction of his coveted scrapbook, which robbed him of the fame he so desperately sought. However, this incident has placed the team in a precarious position, as they must now depend on the testimony of Bobby Trey to dismantle the killer’s network of influential associates.
Although Cross has unraveled the circumstances surrounding his wife’s murder, he continues to bear the emotional repercussions. With season 2 confirmed and new characters introduced, there is ample opportunity to speculate about the storyline. Character Lance, portrayed by Matthew Lillard, is anticipated to connect to the deeper narrative of the “Fanboy”killer. Meanwhile, Judge Rebecca could cause trouble for Cross due to his questionable methods, potentially leading to significant consequences for him on the job. Additionally, the introduction of Donnie, a veteran who has transitioned to farming, may resonate with Cross’ ongoing confrontation with systemic racism.