Cross is the latest adaptation of author James Patteron’s iconic homicide detective, Alex Cross. Previous iterations of the character saw Morgan Freeman and Tyler Perry don the role on film. The new series from showrunner and writer Ben Watkins casts Aldis Hodge as the expert forensic psychologist and DC Metro detective. Episode four finds Cross and his team inching closer to IDing their suspect.

Episode four begins with a flashback to closing arguments in a courtroom. A young woman, Deirdre Nolan, is on trial for a vicious murder. In the present, Cross and John discover the dress hanging above Maria’s gravesite belonged to Nolan. She was sentenced to life in prison but died by suicide after suffering abuse from a CO — Brenda Leeland. Cross believes whoever conspired Leeland’s death seeks revenge for what happened to Nolan.

Meanwhile, at the Cross household, Nana wants to bring joy back to the family and suggests reprising First Friday Karaoke. Cross refuses to attend as he’ll only think of the voice not present. Fortunately, the event brings Cross and Elle closer together, electing them to take their relationship to the next level.

At an undisclosed location, Ed Ramsey instructs a crew of contractors on the work he needs done to his new wine cellar. Unbeknownst to them, Shannon Witmer lies bound and gagged in a nearby cabinet. This episode expounds on Ramsey’s diabolical delusions, viewing his actions as works of art. And his life’s work is almost complete.

As Ramsey professes his methodology, Cross’s team grants their suspect a moniker: “the Fanboy.” They configure the scrapbook as the killer’s bible, a tome showcasing his worship of the serial killers. To force the suspect’s hand, Cross leaks to reporter Tania Hightower that Shannon Witmer is a missing person, which stirs Emir Goodspeed’s family and the Black community to claim racial bias in the two victims’ media coverage. This move only excites Ramsey who cites Cross will not stop unless he makes him stop.

Episdoe four is another solid entry in the series, continuing a great balance of thrilling action, psychological prowess, and heartfelt drama. The writers do a great job of making sure past characters are still a part of the narrative, the world. The actions of the police or other public offices receive reactions from the community, continuing the commentary on policing and blindspots in the profession.

Rating: 9/10