“Cross” Season 2 Sparks Debate Among Viewers Over Storyline Shift

Aldis Hodge returns for the second season of the Prime Video crime thriller, “Cross,” but the indicate is generating discussion – and some discontent – among viewers due to changes in the storyline and character dynamics.

Based on the Alex Cross novel series by James Patterson, the show follows Alex Cross, a forensic psychologist and D.C. Metro homicide detective, as he navigates complex cases and personal challenges. Although the first season was praised for its focus on Black characters and themes, some viewers feel the second season has shifted away from that emphasis.

Storyline Changes Fuel Discussion

A key point of contention is the romantic entanglement of Alex Cross with a white FBI agent, who was previously involved with Cross’s partner, Detective John Sampson. The season features a storyline centered on Hispanic refugee exploitation. This shift has led some Black viewers to express a sense of disconnect from the show, questioning the direction of the narrative.

Social Media Reactions

Social media platforms are filled with reactions from viewers expressing their disappointment. Comments range from frustration with the perceived change in focus to speculation about the influence of the writers’ room.

One user on Threads stated, “Was enjoying this new season until they randomly made him start lusting after that white lady. It was sooo out of left field I legit wanna cuss out whoever proposed this in the writers room. And it seems I’m not the only one who hates how they handled it.”

Another user commented, “Uh Alex Cross… I’ma need for you to leave that Milk of Magnesia alone!”

Others expressed broader concerns about representation, with one user asking, “Did the writers in the room change on Alex Cross? Was Cross too Black? Is this a result of anti-DEI especially against Black women? How can a show go from perfect to cringe in one season?”

A further comment highlighted the perceived contrast between the two seasons: “Alex Cross in S 1: a very Black show starting a very Black man and his very Black homie, grappling w very Black interpersonal issues as they catch a killer. Alex Cross in S 2: we simping for a white lady and Sampson is a chauvinist w mommy issues. Hate it. Annoyed by it.”

About “Cross”

“Cross” premiered on Amazon Prime Video on November 14, 2024, and stars Aldis Hodge, Isaiah Mustafa, and Juanita Jennings. The series is created by Ben Watkins and is based on the Alex Cross novels by James Patterson. A second season is currently airing.