‘Cross’ Season 2 Sparks Debate Among Black Viewers Over Romantic Shift
– Aldis Hodge returns for the second season of Prime Video’s “Cross,” but the show is facing criticism from some Black viewers who are questioning a key storyline change. Unlike the first season, which featured a romantic relationship between Detective Alex Cross and a Black woman named Elle, the new season sees Cross becoming romantically involved with Kayla Craig, a white FBI agent.
The show, based on the popular Alex Cross novels by James Patterson, has traditionally centered a Black protagonist navigating complex issues within the Black community. Fans are expressing disappointment that the second season appears to deviate from this focus, with some suggesting the shift feels disconnected and potentially influenced by external pressures.
“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,” one user wrote on Threads, reflecting a sentiment echoed by many online.
Another user posted on Threads, “Uh Alex Cross… I’ma need for you to leave that Milk of Magnesia alone!” expressing disbelief at the storyline development.
The criticism extends beyond the romantic pairing. Some viewers also point to a shift in the show’s overall narrative focus, with the second season placing greater emphasis on a storyline involving Hispanic refugee exploitation. “Cross Season 2. I’m on the 3rd episode and I’m annoyed how they white washed the show,” one viewer commented on Threads.
One user questioned the motivations behind the changes, 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?”
Another user summarized the perceived shift, stating, “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.”
Kayla Craig, played by Alona Tal, was reimagined from the Kyle Craig character in the original novels. According to Tal, her character is ambitious and focused on career advancement. The show also features Matthew Lillard, and a recent review noted Hodge’s strong performance as a highlight of the series, while acknowledging the season tackles timely issues but feels somewhat scattered in its approach.
The controversy highlights the importance of representation and the potential impact of narrative choices on audience engagement, particularly when adapting beloved characters and stories for the screen. The reaction to “Cross” Season 2 underscores the expectations of viewers for authentic and consistent representation in media.
