Cross filming locations: Was the crime drama really filmed in D.C.?

The new Alex Cross series looks like a fun addition to the Prime Video library, but where was it filmed?

Created by best-selling author James Patterson for 1993’s Along Came a Spider, Alex Cross has become one of the most notable and popular detectives in fiction. A top psychologist with keen insight into the criminal mind, Cross' cases have ranged from hunting serial killers to going against government conspiracies. With over thirty books starring the character, fans can’t get enough of Cross and his hunts against killers and other adventures.

The character has been adapted before, with Morgan Freeman playing him in movies based on Spider and Kiss the Girls. Tyler Perry took on the role in 2012’s Alex Cross film. Now, Prime Video is giving the character his due in a new original series. It's notable for not being based on any novel from the series but an original spin on the character.

The Cross series stars Aldis Hodge in the title role as Cross is grieving after hunting the serial killer whose victims included Cross’ wife. That gives him a personal edge as he tries to discover the truth. Isaiah Mustafa co-stars as Cross’ long-time partner and best friend, Detective John Sampson, and the cast also includes Ryan Eggold as Ed Ramsey, an ally turned adversary. 

The series looks to be ready for success, with Prime Video already ordering a second season before the first even airs. So, just where was the mystery filmed? Here's what we know!

The Alex Cross series filmed in Canada

While the show is set in Washington D.C., it actually went over the border with all the filming in Canada. As reported by IMDB, Cross did most of its filming in Ontario, with Toronto standing in for D.C., and Mississauga and Belfountain were also used. 

Principal filming seemed to be in Hamilton with production setting up on King Street East and Hughson Street South (Gore Park), the former Royal Connaught Hotel, Imperial Variety on Wellington Street North, and the Columbia College Campus on Northcliffe Avenue in Dundas.

This may be surprising but it’s also pretty common for Toronto and other Canadian cities to be used to stand in for numerous cities in other TV shows and movies. Aldis Hodge shared photos from the sets, which also revealed they did some filming in the real D.C. However, Toronto looks to have filled in for the actual city on the show, which is easier for the budget.

Season 2 was already filming over the fall, with Hamilton standing in for Chicago. So when fans watch Alex Cross on his adventures, just know almost all you see actually takes place in Canada and, much like the character, not all is as it seems.

Cross premieres Thursday, Nov. 14 on Prime Video. Stay tuned to Americans Undercover for coverage and follow us on X!