‘Cross’ Season 2: Alona Tal & Johnny Ray Gill on Kayla’s Choices & Bobby Trey’s Chaos

The murky waters of Prime Video’s Cross deepened in episode six of Season 2, with a particularly visceral showdown between FBI Agent Kayla Craig (Alona Tal) and a woman connected to the target of her investigation. Tal, alongside co-star Johnny Ray Gill, who plays the enigmatic Bobby Trey, spoke with Collider about the calculated nature of their characters, the shifting dynamics at play, and the surprisingly enjoyable physicality of the episode’s central conflict.

Cross, based on the Alex Cross novel series by James Patterson, follows forensic psychologist, and D.C. Metro homicide detective Alex Cross (Aldis Hodge) and his partner, Detective John Sampson, as they navigate the dangerous world of crime. Season 2, which premiered November 14, 2024, introduces latest layers of complexity, particularly through the character of Kayla Craig and her increasingly fraught relationship with both Alex Cross and the morally ambiguous Bobby Trey.

Kayla’s Calculated Risks and Bobby Trey’s Unfazed Perspective

The connection between Kayla and Bobby Trey is born of necessity, with Kayla leveraging Trey’s unique skillset for her own purposes. However, the arrangement isn’t without its complications. “It feels like he probably regrets that whole situation more than she does,” Tal observed, hinting at Kayla’s pragmatic approach. Gill, however, offered a different perspective, stating, “No regrets. You’ve got to live amongst the tornadoes.”

Trey, a former police officer turned prisoner, seems remarkably unfazed by the morally questionable tasks Kayla assigns him. Gill explained that Trey views Kayla as “an agent of chaos and as an agent of the system that he doesn’t agree with.” He further elaborated on the character’s complex motivations, drawing a parallel to the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, highlighting a distrust of institutions and a concern for those exploited by them. Tal quickly seconded the importance of understanding that historical context, emphasizing the gravity of the reference.

Navigating the Complicated Relationship Between Kayla and Alex

Season 2 delves deeper into the personal relationship between Kayla and Alex Cross, a development that is both inevitable and fraught with tension. Tal described exploring this dynamic as “fun scenes to explore, but also really uncomfortable to shoot because it’s operate.” She noted the intriguing contrast between their professional compatibility and the challenges of navigating a romantic connection. The series doesn’t shy away from the awkwardness, exemplified by a moment in episode four where Kayla’s attempt at a playful remark falls flat. Tal embraced these moments, stating, “I love when characters have a lot of humor, especially characters that deal with such dark subject matter.”

The Pool Fight: A Physical Manifestation of Internal Conflict

Episode six culminates in a physical altercation between Kayla and Felicia (Amanda Brooks) by the pool. Tal described the scene as a highlight, praising Brooks’ talent and expressing a desire for more such moments. “I really liked doing the physical things that I got to do in episode six, and I wanted more of it,” she said. Gill, watching from the sidelines, appreciated the raw energy and authenticity of the fight, noting, “It was nice to see you guys get scrappy.”

Tal acknowledged the scene’s element of “low-hanging fruit,” but embraced it nonetheless, stating, “I think Ben [Watkins, creator] was seriously waiting for the opportunity to be able to throw back to that one.” The fight, and the series as a whole, doesn’t shy away from the messiness and brutality that can accompany the pursuit of justice.

Bobby Trey: A Metaphor for Capitalism

Gill’s portrayal of Bobby Trey is a masterclass in nuanced character work. He described the character as a “charming, cunning, psychotic, ruthless cat,” and revealed that he approached the role with a unique conceptual framework. “It’s the first time I’ve ever created a character from a metaphor, that metaphor being capitalism,” he explained. This perspective informs Trey’s motivations and actions, adding another layer of complexity to an already fascinating character.

The meticulous attention to detail in Trey’s characterization – from his accent and wardrobe to his physicality – is a testament to Gill’s dedication. He researched the character’s Louisiana roots and the experiences of veterans, aiming to create a fully realized and believable individual.

What’s Next for Cross?

As Season 2 unfolds, the stakes continue to rise for Alex Cross and those around him. The introduction of “The Mastermind,” a key figure from the Alex Cross novels, promises to further complicate matters. ScreenRant recently revealed that Kyle Craig is the Mastermind in James Patterson’s books, hinting at a potentially significant storyline for the series. The show’s exploration of moral ambiguity, complex relationships, and the dark underbelly of crime ensures that viewers will remain on the edge of their seats.

Cross is currently streaming on Prime Video, with new episodes released weekly.