Prime Video is doubling down on its crime thriller lineup with exciting casting news for one of its fastest-growing series. The streaming service has officially added actor Ethan Embry to the ensemble of Cross Season 3, bringing fresh talent to the already compelling detective drama that's quickly becoming a fan favorite.
Embry, known for his recent work in the horror blockbuster Scream 7 and beloved films like That Thing You Do!, will join the cast as Frederick, a charismatic sobriety coach who employs a tough-love approach. His casting follows the recent addition of Matthew Lillard to Season 2, creating an intriguing connection between the two Scream franchise alumni within the Cross universe.
A Thriving Crime Drama Universe
While audiences eagerly await the return of Alan Ritchson's Reacher for its fourth season, Cross has firmly established itself as Prime Video's next major crime franchise. Based on James Patterson's bestselling series of mystery novels, the show follows brilliant forensic psychologist and DC Metro Detective Alex Cross, played by Aldis Hodge, as he investigates complex criminal cases while protecting his family from danger.
The series, created by Ben Watkins, also stars Isaiah Mustafa as Detective John Sampson, Cross's best friend and partner. Their dynamic partnership forms the emotional core of the show as they delve into the minds of America's most dangerous criminals. The renewal for Season 3 came as little surprise given the show's strong performance since its 2024 premiere, but today's casting announcement adds significant momentum to the upcoming season's development.
Prime Video's Expanding Thriller Portfolio
2026 has proven to be a banner year for Prime Video's original content, with Cross joining an impressive roster of successful releases. The platform has seen major films like The Wrecking Crew and The Bluff dominate streaming charts, while television offerings like Invincible and The Boys continue to draw massive audiences during their current seasons.
This casting news arrives at an interesting moment for streaming thrillers. While Netflix has found success with series like The Night Agent, Prime Video appears committed to building its own distinctive crime drama ecosystem. For viewers looking to explore more of the platform's thriller offerings, consider checking out Your Prime Video Weekend Watchlist for curated recommendations.
Embry's casting represents more than just another actor joining a series—it signals Prime Video's continued investment in Cross as a cornerstone of its drama programming. The character of Frederick, with his complex approach to sobriety coaching, promises to add new dimensions to the show's exploration of psychology, addiction, and redemption within its criminal investigations.
For those who haven't yet discovered the series, the first two seasons of Cross are currently available to stream on Prime Video. The show represents part of a broader trend of sophisticated crime dramas finding homes on streaming platforms, joining the ranks of other acclaimed series that maintain their quality across multiple seasons, much like these HBO classics that never lose their grip.
As production on Season 3 moves forward, fans can expect more updates about the upcoming installment of this gripping detective series. With Embry's addition to the cast and the solid foundation established by Hodge's compelling lead performance, Cross appears poised to continue its ascent as one of Prime Video's most engaging original offerings.
