Amazon’s ‘Cross’ Soars to 40 Million Viewers in Rapid Premiere Success

Amazon’s new series “Cross” has attracted 40 million viewers in 20 days, ranking as the third-largest series premiere of 2024. With over half of its audience from international markets, the series showcases the effectiveness of gripping storytelling in appealing to a global viewership. With a strong cast and early renewal, it’s positioned for ongoing success.

In an impressive showing, Amazon’s new thriller series “Cross,” led by Aldis Hodge, has captivated a staggering 40 million viewers within its first 20 days of release. According to the streaming service, this marks “Cross” as the third-largest season premiere of 2024, trailing behind the colossal hits “Fallout” Season 1 and “The Rings of Power” Season 2. Notably, Amazon reported that over half of its audience hails from outside the U.S., with substantial viewership from countries like Germany, the U.K., and Brazil.

While viewers rejoice in the gripping narrative of “Cross,” it’s important to note that Amazon’s measurement of viewership differs from other platforms. Instead of calculating total views based on numerous factors, Amazon counts anyone who watched any part of an episode, potentially skewing the real engagement metrics. With its captivating plot and strong performances, “Cross” has already cemented its place as Prime Video’s third-biggest series launch, demonstrating a global appeal that few series achieve.

The series boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Isaiah Mustafa and Alona Tal, with Hodge also serving in a production capacity. Produced by a partnership including Amazon MGM Studios, Paramount Television, and Skydance Television, “Cross” is helmed by showrunner Ben Watkins. The rave reviews and strong ratings have led to an early second-season renewal even before its debut.

“Cross” draws its inspiration from James Patterson’s celebrated “Alex Cross” novels, marrying a rich literary backdrop with engaging television storytelling. As the thriller genre pulses with intrigue, the series showcases an expansive narrative filled with suspense and complex characters. This blend of gripping narrative and star power, led by Aldis Hodge, has resonated with audiences globally, further enhancing Amazon’s portfolio in the competitive streaming market. With international viewers driving significant numbers, the series highlights the cross-border appeal of compelling storytelling and action-packed plots.

In summary, Amazon’s “Cross” has burst onto the streaming scene with remarkable speed, garnering 40 million viewers in less than three weeks. Its success, reflected in its top-three season premiere ranking, showcases not just the series’ engaging storyline but also its capacity to connect with a worldwide audience. Bolstered by a strong cast and production team, the series is set to ascend further in popularity, promising viewers more thrills in its upcoming season.

Original Source: variety.com