Innovating Television and Redefining Entertainment

In the fast-paced world of television and entertainment, few individuals leave a lasting impact. Alex Cross is one of those rare innovators whose creativity, dedication, and expertise have redefined the industry. With a career spanning groundbreaking reality shows, live productions, and hit formats, Alex continues to push the boundaries of storytelling and audience engagement.

Q: How did you start your career in television?

Alex: While in my final year at university, I secured a week’s work experience at the live magazine show This Morning. I started in the “phone-in” room, answering calls from viewers and suggesting callers for the show. They must have liked me because they offered me a part-time role while I was still in school.

That evolved into a position on the news desk, and after graduating, I became a Studio Production Assistant. Over the next four years, I worked my way up to Associate Producer and then Live Producer, covering news, celebrity interviews, human interest stories, and lifestyle segments. It was an incredible training ground—hard work but a lot of fun!

Q: What was your ‘big break’ in the industry?

Alex: Moving into reality TV and working on Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother during their peak. Producing for such an iconic show was a game-changer. It required a 24/7 turnaround, fast-paced storytelling, and handling unexpected moments—like when celebrity contestant Leo Sayer escaped the house after a dispute over laundry!

Q: Have you received any industry awards?

Alex: Yes! The first season of Dating in the Dark won a Royal Television Society Award for Multi-Channel Program. This Morning also secured several National Television Awards, proving its status as a beloved daytime show.

Q: What have been your biggest and most commercially successful projects?

Alex: Some of my biggest projects include Dancing with the Stars, Celebrity Wife Swap, and Big Brother/Celebrity Big Brother UK. The key to their success? A great cast and skilled storytelling. A talented production team is always the magic formula!

Q: What recent projects have you completed, and what’s coming up next?

Alex: I recently wrapped up Got to Get Out for Hulu, which premieres on April 11th. I hope I can return to the next season of Dancing with the Stars, which continues to break records—its most recent finale had the highest viewer engagement in five years, with over 32 million votes! I’m also working on a new project that hasn’t been announced yet, but it’s exciting.

Q: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career?

Alex: Hard work pays off. Also—keep emails short and to the point!

Q: Who were your mentors when you started out?

Alex: Claire O’Donohoe and Natalka Znak have been incredible mentors. They’ve championed me, given me invaluable advice, and supported me throughout my career in both the UK and the US.

Q: What advice would you give to those looking to enter the industry?

Alex: Be curious! Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about what other departments are doing. The more you know, the better you’ll be at your job.

Q: What is your proudest achievement to date?

Alex: Dancing with the Stars. It’s such an iconic and long-running show, and to be able to help bring new life to it and see audiences respond so well is incredibly satisfying. Working on a live show means getting real-time feedback, which is a thrill.

Q: How do you see your impact on the television industry?

Alex: I’m committed to pushing boundaries and creating high-quality content that resonates with audiences. Whether it’s reality TV, live productions, or new formats, I want to continue shaping the future of entertainment.