Alex Cross is a fictional character created by author James Patterson. He is a detective and psychologist who often finds himself solving complex murder cases. The character first appeared in the novel "Along Came a Spider" and has since become a central figure in a popular series of thrillers. The Alex Cross series features a mix of crime, suspense, and psychological elements. Cross is known for his intelligence, empathy, and determination, often facing off against clever and dangerous criminals. The books have been adapted into films, further increasing the character's popularity in popular culture.