by Tim Gordon
Aldis Hodge’s dynamic performance as James Patterson’s celebrated detective character, Alex Cross, in the upcoming series, Cross introduces audiences to a brilliant and determined investigator. His portrayal brings intensity and intellect to the character, breathing new life into the iconic role and adding another impressive performance to his repertoire.
With the release of Cross, Hodge takes center stage in our Reel Spotlight, celebrating his versatile and captivating performances. An actor with a career that embodies both critical acclaim and fan-favorite status, Hodge has made a lasting impact on both the small and big screens.
Let’s dive into his Top Ten Performances, showcasing his evolution as an artist and his compelling ability to bring diverse characters to life:
- Alec Hardison in Leverage
As the tech-savvy and quick-witted hacker Alec Hardison, Hodge charmed audiences in the TNT series Leverage. His role brought humor, intelligence, and a unique blend of vulnerability, making Hardison an integral part of the Leverage team’s con adventures. - MC Ren in Straight Outta Compton
Portraying MC Ren, a member of the iconic rap group N.W.A, Hodge delivered a performance that captured the essence of the West Coast hip-hop revolution. The film’s powerful narrative was anchored by Hodge’s authentic and nuanced portrayal of one of hip-hop’s pivotal figures. - Levi Jackson in Hidden Figures
In Hidden Figures, Hodge played Levi Jackson, the supportive and determined husband of mathematician Mary Jackson, portrayed by Janelle Monáe. His performance offered an intimate look at the family dynamics and emotional strength behind the groundbreaking achievements of Black women at NASA during the space race. - Noah in Underground
Hodge’s portrayal of Noah, a courageous and resourceful leader of a group of enslaved people seeking freedom, was powerful and emotionally charged. In the WGN America series Underground, he showcased the resilience and depth of a man driven by hope and justice, making Noah an unforgettable character. - Matthew in Girlfriends
Early in his career, Hodge took on the role of Matthew in Girlfriends. His guest appearance revealed his ability to handle comedy and drama effortlessly, paving the way for more complex roles in his future. - Jim Brown in One Night in Miami…
As the legendary NFL player and activist Jim Brown, Hodge shined in Regina King’s directorial debut, One Night in Miami…. His performance balanced strength and introspection, exploring the complexities of a man caught between fame and the struggle for civil rights. - Ray Voodoo Tatum in Friday Night Lights
On the beloved series Friday Night Lights, Hodge played Ray Voodoo Tatum, a character who brought tension and drama to the Dillon Panthers’ football field. His portrayal added layers to the show’s exploration of sports, community, and teenage pressures. - Edgar Reade in Blindspot
In NBC’s Blindspot, Hodge appeared as Edgar Reade, an FBI agent grappling with moral dilemmas and intense cases. His performance added gravity and complexity to the series’ fast-paced, suspenseful storyline. - Hawkman in Black Adam
Entering the DC Universe, Hodge took flight as Carter Hall, aka Hawkman, in Black Adam. He brought a commanding presence to the role, embodying the strength and warrior spirit of the Justice Society of America’s iconic hero. His portrayal marked a new era in superhero cinema, blending action with depth. - John Stewart / Green Lantern in Green Lantern: Beware My Power
As the voice of John Stewart in the animated film Green Lantern: Beware My Power, Hodge lent his powerful and charismatic voice to one of DC Comics’ most celebrated characters. His performance gave fans a fresh take on the beloved Green Lantern, solidifying his place as a fan favorite.
From hackers to heroes and historical figures, Aldis Hodge’s career showcases his incredible range and dedication to his craft. As Cross brings his latest performance to audiences, we continue to celebrate his legacy and look forward to the stories he’ll tell in the future.
Cross premieres on November 14 on Amazon Prime.