Original Ending of Cross Season 2 Unveiled After Significant Changes

Season 2 of Prime Video’s Cross was intended to conclude quite differently before the finale underwent changes on screen.

In the season’s final episode on Wednesday, March 18, Alex (Aldis Hodge) found himself at a pivotal moment after attempting to assist Luz (Jeanine Mason), only for her to apparently perish—though the show hinted that she might still be alive.

Ultimately, Alex grappled with his role in the Washington, D.C. police force, following Kayla’s (Alona Tal) betrayal, his separation from Elle (Samantha Walkes), and an uncertain future as a detective. In the closing scenes, he left behind his badge, unsure of what lay ahead.

“I originally did not plan that at all,” creator Ben Watkins told Us Weekly in an exclusive interview about the ending of Alex’s arc. “But that exemplifies being open to where the story leads you.”

Watkins was willing to modify the story, adding, “Sometimes you set the stage, and you have to honor the path. When I reached that point, it became clear that if I wanted to be honest about Alex’s choices, he would have to turn in his badge.”

The plot alteration was not an easy choice behind the scenes.

“I thought, ‘What am I doing?’ I had to contact the network to explain that this show about Alex Cross—a detective—now ends with him turning in his badge at the end of season 2. But my advice to any writer is to embrace what frightens you, and that’s what we did,” Watkins remarked. “This sets us up to explore potential developments in the future.”

Watkins teased how this decision will influence season 3, stating, “It will be compelling to reinstate him, as anyone who watches season 2 will comprehend why he felt compelled to turn in his badge. There are valid reasons, significant questions, and the conflicts and contradictions he has been facing.”

He concluded: “It needs to be a compelling reason for his return. That’s where the opportunity lies. After my initial fear, I realized, ‘Now we’re accountable for something substantial when we figure that out.’ It’s going to be exciting.”

Cross, which debuted in 2024, is based on the Alex Cross novel series by James Patterson. The series follows forensic psychologist and D.C. Metro Detective Alex Cross as he pursues some of the nation’s most dangerous criminals. Alongside his partner, Cross navigates the threats of the criminal world while striving to protect his family.

Besides Hodge, Tal, Walkes, and Mason, Cross features Isaiah Mustafa, Juanita Jennings, Caleb Elijah, Melody Hurd, Matthew Lillard, and Jennifer Wigmore.

Reflecting on the ultimate conclusion, Watkins shared his original vision.

“Initially, it was just about taking down Lance Durand. There was also a thought to have a character that represented an institution that had become so cynical that it was okay with what transpired in season 2,” he hinted. “That character had to go down along with Lance. However, it felt like the institution itself was embodying the wrong ideals. Thus, Alex Cross needed to make an even bolder statement.”

Cross is currently available for streaming on Prime Video.