Stacie Greenwell Discusses Prime Video’s Newest Series ‘Cross’ [Interview]

Alex Cross is about to reintroduce himself to audiences as he transitions from film to streaming in the new Prime Video series Cross. The new adaptation of James Patterson’s crime novels opens up the world of Alex Cross with not just cases but a whole cast whom our main detective interacts with.

I recently spoke with actress Stacie Greenwell about her character, Detective Shawna De Lackner, about the series and what audiences should know about her.

Describing Detective De Lackner, Greenwell said she’s intelligent and goes toe-to-toe with her co-workers.

“She is spunky and smart, and she’s funny, and she challenges her peers, and she just seemed really interesting,” Greenwell said.

She went on to explain that her character is a hardworking woman in the police force. “She is really committed to her work, and she’s a perfectionist. She really goes hard when it comes to her work, but she also loves the people who she works with.”

“It’s just interesting to see this type of character that — she’s dominating in a male-dominated career. She’s up there with the best of them, and she gets their respect. And I love having this type of character be seen on screen,” Greenwell continued.

Of course, Greenwell’s dynamic with lead and co-star Aldis Hodge, who plays the titular character, is important to the series. Greenwell shared a bit about what that connection is like.

“[Shawna De Lackner] is a lot of fun, but she’s also hardworking, smart, and says whatever’s on her mind. She’s confident, and I think she’s an asset to the team because she challenges Cross sometimes,” she said. “The characters are like brother and sister in that you can fight, but you still love each other. And so, we were able to have a full relationship that I think is fun to watch.”

Speaking of Hodge, Greenwell shared her experience working with him, who also worked as a producer on the series.

“He has been a great leader for the show. He works hard, but he also plays hard. And he’s smart, and he’s also funny, and kind, and humble despite all of the accolades and all that he’s done. He’s also just a really humble, good guy. So it was a pleasure really working with him.”

The series, which was shot in Washington DC, is something that Greenwell connected with easily since she already has ties to the city.

“I actually went to college in DC, Georgetown, and it’s just it’s a great city. There’s so much going on, so many great people and landmarks. It just felt really familiar to me to be in that city. And, it was almost like another character really to have that as the backdrop of our show,” she said.

Despite the show being a crime thriller, Greenwell touched on the emotional balance that it has that would resonate with viewers. 

“There’s a lot of love there between family, between friends, coworkers,” she explained. “I think it’s nice that you have that darkness but also that light. I think it balances well.”

With the show having an ensemble cast, Greenwell discussed how each character of the series, like hers, gets a moment to shine. “It’s an ensemble cast, and I feel like everybody gets a full character,” she said. “Everyone has a story. And you get to see each of us and our relationships. It’s not just it’s not just about the crimes, but so much more.”

The Cross actress also finds things she relates to with her character. “She does her best at everything that she does, which I try to do. She’s more confident than I am, I have to admit. But, I think it’s important to bring confidence to your work.”

“She also fights for her people, fights for the people she loves in her life, and I’m like that too. Like a fierce mama bear. You know? And so I definitely could relate to that.”

With Season 2 having already been shot, Greenwell shared her hopes for audiences to enjoy the first one and get comfortable with the series.

“I want them to take away the theme of love in the show. I do like that the show has a heart. Crime thrillers are awesome. And, of course, everybody’s in it to see the crime. And so it’s like you come for the crime, but you stay for the heart.”

“So I hope they get to enjoy the full facet of the program,” Greenwell said. “I hope they get a chance to enjoy all of what the story brings.”

Cross premieres November 14th on Prime Video.

Follow us on X and on Instagram!

Want more from Tell-Tale TV? Subscribe to our newsletter here!