Aldis Hodge & Ben Watkins: On "Cross" Alex

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Post on Nov 15, 2024

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Aldis Hodge & Ben Watkins: Cracking the Code of "Cross" Alex

So, you've binged Leverage: Redemption and you're totally hooked, right? You're probably obsessed with the team, especially the enigmatic Alex. But who is Alex, really? We're diving deep into the portrayal of this complex character by Aldis Hodge and Ben Watkins, exploring how they shaped him into the legend we know and love (or, you know, kinda-love-kinda-hate).

Two Sides of the Same Coin: Aldis Hodge's Original Alex

Let's be honest, Aldis Hodge owns the role of Alex in the original Leverage. His performance is... electrifying. He brings a raw intensity, a simmering anger just under the surface, that’s both terrifying and captivating. He’s the brooding genius, the tech whiz who can crack any code, but also the guy who's hiding a ton of emotional baggage. Remember that heartbreaking backstory? Yeah, that's all Hodge.

Hodge's Impact: More Than Just Tech

Hodge didn't just play Alex as a tech guy; he infused him with a palpable vulnerability. He showed us the cracks in Alex's armor, the moments where his carefully constructed persona faltered. This vulnerability made him relatable, even sympathetic, despite his sometimes morally gray actions. He made Alex human, which is crucial to the show's success. Without that, Alex would just be a cool hacker dude, not a complex, compelling character.

Passing the Torch: Ben Watkins Takes Up the Mantle

Then came Leverage: Redemption, and the big question: Could anyone replace Hodge's iconic Alex? Enter Ben Watkins. Now, this is a tricky situation, replacing a legendary actor is never easy. But Watkins, surprisingly, pulls it off. He doesn't try to be Hodge's Alex. Instead, he creates his own interpretation, building upon the foundation Hodge laid.

A Different Shade of Alex: Watkins's Approach

Watkins' Alex is a bit more... refined. He's still brilliant, still capable of incredible feats of tech wizardry, but there's a different energy. It's less volatile, more controlled. This isn't a bad thing! It reflects the passage of time, the growth of the character, and also allows Watkins to showcase his own unique acting style. It's like seeing an older, wiser (though still mischievous) Alex.

The Legacy of Alex: A Masterclass in Character Development

Both Hodge and Watkins contributed to the enduring legacy of Alex. Hodge gave us the raw, emotional core, the foundation upon which the character was built. Watkins took that core and added new layers, showing us how a character can evolve while still remaining true to their essence.

It's a testament to both actors' talent and to the strength of the writing that Alex, in both iterations, continues to be such a compelling and captivating character. Seriously, who doesn't love a good morally grey hacker? Let's be honest, we all secretly wish we were Alex. Or at least had a fraction of his tech skills.

Beyond the Screen: A Lasting Impression

The impact of both actors’ portrayal of Alex extends beyond the screen. The character has sparked countless fan discussions, analyses, and even cosplay! This enduring popularity demonstrates the power of compelling character development and exceptional acting. It proves that even a supporting role, when acted with passion and nuance, can become iconic. And that’s a pretty awesome thing.