SPOTLIGHT SERIES: Inside the Mind of Bobby Trey: Johnny Ray Gill on Cross, Capitalism and Craft

Johnny Ray Gill discusses his role as sociopathic ex-cop Bobby Trey in Amazon's Cross, the influence of poetry on his acting, and the responsibility of storytelling to explore complex social issues like policing and capitalism. He shares his journey from spoken word to stage and screen, his thoughts on social media and craft versus fame, and why perseverance, research, and ambitious original stories matter in cinema. Johnny Ray Gill is set to star in the upcoming second season of Amazon’s global hit series “Cross.” Johnny Ray has quickly emerged as one of the show’s most talked-about performers with his chilling and magnetic turn as the sociopathic ex-cop “Bobby Trey.” His scene-stealing role became a breakout of the first season, helping propel Cross to Amazon’s #1 spot both domestically and internationally.  Now a series regular of the show, we see ‘Bobby Trey’ ready to make good on the deal he made with Cross at the end of season one, locate at least 3-5 bodies from his former boss’ killing spree from season one or spend the rest of his life in jail as Cross pins the murders on him. However, Bobby Trey has a few tricks up his sleeve and will drive even more suspense and intensity this season! With audiences invested in Bobby Trey’s dark and unpredictable storyline, Johnny is poised to be one of the standout names of the new season. Cross premieres February 11, 2026.