Ben Watkins: Black Masculinity, Hollywood Politics & the Power of “Cross” | The LZ Granderson Show

NAACP Image Award-winning writer Ben Watkins joins LZ Granderson for a raw, emotional, and unfiltered conversation about the hit series Cross, redefining Black masculinity, and navigating Hollywood as a Black creative in 2025.LZ opens up about discovering Cross during a low point in his life—and how the show spoke to him in ways few pieces of art ever have. Ben shares the behind-the-scenes battles to get the show made, the cultural pushback, and the intention behind portraying powerful, emotional Black male friendships rarely seen on screen.From real talk about representation and masculinity, to the current politics of Hollywood, this is a must-watch for anyone who cares about storytelling, impact, and authenticity. 👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations.🔔 Hit the bell to get notified when new episodes drop! 0:00 Welcome to The LZ Granderson Show0:15 Los Angeles Voters, Jurassic World Rebirth, and Our Conversation with "Cross" Creator Ben Watkins1:53 Ben Watkins Joins the Show3:10 How "Cross" Was Green lit14:20 Breaking down the False narrative of black content not being viable21:05 Developing the Script for "Cross"25:50 How Can Black Artists Reflect What They Want?32:45 Season 2 Expectations for "Cross"46:30 "Cross'" Season 1 Nod to Jerry McGuire50:45 Creating a Black Character like Alex Cross54:34 Being a Black Creative in 202557:45 Thanks for watching! #BenWatkins #CrossSeries #BlackMasculinity #LZGranderson #Hollywood #BlackCreators #PodcastInterview From ESPN and CNN to ABC.and The L.A. Times, LZ Granderson hosts bold conversations that meet the beating pulse of entertainment, sports, pop culture, and beyond. Each week, LZ sits down with a compelling guest—from athletes and artists to activists and icons—for unfiltered, thought-provoking dialogue about the stories shaping our world. Emmy award-winning journalist and cultural commentator LZ Granderson is insightful, witty, and always real. This is the podcast where culture gets a conscience and nothing is off-limits. For more about LZ and his work check out: http://lzgrandersonshow.org/ Connect on Social MediaTwitter/X: https://x.com/lzgranderson?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lzgranderson/?hl=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@lzgranderson?invite=4Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@1lzgrandersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/LZ-Granderson-100057700284324/