Aldis Hodge Returns as Alex Cross in Season 2 of 'Cross'
The new season of the hit series 'Cross' premieres on February 11 on Prime Video, with Aldis Hodge reprising his role as detective and forensic psychologist Alex Cross. This season delves into the dark world of corrupt billionaires who face violent retribution from a vigilante targeting abusers shielded by their immense wealth.
Timing and Real-World Parallels
While the storyline is not directly based on the exploits of Jeffrey Epstein, Hodge acknowledges striking parallels. "There's a crazy sort of chance happening with the timing because, when the story was developed, this was prior to a lot of things that have been revealed as of late," Hodge explains. Interestingly, Season 2 was completed in 2024, well before the latest Epstein files were released to the public.
Hodge expresses hope that the series will "bring a little bit more awareness to what's going on so people can stop turning a blind eye to some of these things and at least try to move to make a real difference."
International Success and Recognition
The first season's success has cemented Hodge's status as the television incarnation of author James Patterson's iconic character. The show has garnered international acclaim, with fans including soccer superstar Thierry Henry. Hodge humorously recalls, "Hodge asked for a selfie or his mom would have killed him."
In an interview with The Associated Press, Hodge shared his surprise at the show's global appeal. "I've been between here (London) and Paris in my time these last couple of months, and there's a lot of love for the show internationally," he said. "It shows me exactly how effective the right kind of storytelling can be across different lands."
On-Set Dynamics and Personal Reflections
Hodge fondly remembers the camaraderie among the cast and crew, highlighting a unique on-set book club and shared training sessions. "We have a fantastic cast, our crew is amazing. I actually enjoy spending time with my cast," he notes.
When asked about intense action scenes, Hodge credits his mother, a former competitive runner and track coach, for inspiration. "I was, like, I gotta make mom proud," he laughs, though he admits the physical toll is real. "To run about 10 takes in, you start to feel it. And that's when your body says, 'Hey, man, you getting old, sit down, OK?'"
Valentine's Day Viewing and Turning 40
With the release coinciding with Valentine's Day, Hodge believes 'Cross' is perfect for couples, despite humorous anecdotes of partners watching ahead and causing disputes. "I'm like, 'We trying to bring people together,'" he jokes.
As Hodge approaches his 40th birthday, his priorities are refreshingly grounded. "My biggest aim for 40 is just hoping that my knees and my back work," he shares. With a 4-year-old daughter, he adds, "I got a 4-year-old who always wants to be picked up, but she doesn't understand daddy's old, OK? Daddy's body is broke, OK, so I'm trying to just be able to keep up with her."
The series continues to tackle complex themes, including the challenges faced by Black men in law enforcement, resonating with audiences and officers alike globally.
