Amazon’s New Thriller ‘Cross’ Could Challenge Reacher in 2026

Amazon Prime Video is known for strong crime and action thrillers, and Reacher has been one of its biggest hits. The series is set to return for Season 4 in late 2026, but it may face serious competition from another Amazon original — Cross.

Cross returns for Season 2 on February 11, 2026, just over a year after its first season ended. While Reacher is already a proven success, Cross is still growing — and its next season could help it stand shoulder to shoulder with Amazon’s biggest action series.

Alex Cross and Jack Reacher Are More Alike Than You Think

At first glance, Alex Cross and Jack Reacher may seem very different, but they actually share a lot in common.

Alex Cross, played by Aldis Hodge, is a detective and forensic psychologist who understands how criminals think. He uses both his intelligence and physical strength to stop dangerous killers.

Jack Reacher, played by Alan Ritchson, is a former U.S. Army military police major. While he’s known for his size and fighting skills, Reacher is also highly intelligent and experienced in investigations.

Both characters have strong moral values and are willing to take difficult paths to do the right thing. They also carry emotional trauma. Cross is still coping with the loss of his wife, while Reacher has dealt with the death of his brother and false accusations of murder.

The biggest difference is how they live. Reacher prefers to work alone, while Cross is surrounded by family and trusted allies, including his close friend and partner John Sampson, played by Isaiah Mustafa.

Why Reacher and Cross Feel So Similar

Both shows follow a procedural format, with a new major case each season. They offer:

• Heavy action

• Strong supporting characters

• Smart, powerful lead heroes

Both characters have also been played by other actors in the past. Jack Reacher was famously portrayed by Tom Cruise, while Alex Cross was previously played by Morgan Freeman and Tyler Perry. Many fans believe Aldis Hodge delivers the most accurate and compelling version of Alex Cross so far.

The shows are also based on popular books:

• Reacher comes from Lee Child’s novels

• Cross is based on James Patterson’s Alex Cross books

While Reacher sticks closely to its source material, Cross adapts the books into a more modern, TV-friendly procedural style.

Reviews and Fan Response

Reacher has received outstanding reviews, scoring in the 90% range on Rotten Tomatoes, including an impressive 98% rating for Seasons 2 and 3.

Cross Season 1 earned a more modest 76%, but critics and viewers strongly praised Aldis Hodge’s performance. With the story now fully established, Season 2 is expected to be even better, potentially winning over more fans — especially those who already love Reacher.

Why Reacher Fans Should Watch Cross

Cross Season 1 has only eight episodes, making it easy to binge before Season 2 arrives. Amazon will release the first three episodes of Season 2 at once, followed by weekly episodes.

With similar themes, strong action, and a compelling lead character, Cross is perfectly positioned to attract Reacher fans — and may even challenge it as Amazon Prime Video’s top crime thriller in 2026.