Alien: Earth Cast Wants Ash and Kane in the Show, Showrunner Teases Future Crossover Possibilities

The haunting corridors of the Nostromo may feel lightyears away, but the legacy of Alien’s iconic characters looms large over FX’s ambitious new prequel series, Alien: Earth. In exclusive revelations, the cast disclosed their dream crossover picks from Ridley Scott’s original film—with the synthetically sinister Ash and ill-fated Kane topping their lists.

Which Original Alien Characters Could Appear in Alien: Earth?

Set in 2122—just two years before the events of 1979’s Alien—Alien: Earth explores Weyland-Yutani’s unchecked expansion and terrifying new bio-weapons. Showrunner Noah Hawley (Fargo, Legion) masterfully expands the universe with synthetic “hybrids,” rogue cyborgs, and nightmarish alien variants. When asked about integrating classic characters, Hawley tantalizingly hinted, “Is it plausible that the show might reach the moment the movie begins? Certainly.” This opens doors for potential crossovers, thrilling fans awaiting ties to cinema lore.

Babou Ceesay, who plays the morally conflicted cyborg Morrow, immediately nominated Ian Holm’s duplicitous science officer Ash. “Ash is stuck in my psyche,” Ceesay confessed, suggesting Ash could confront Timothy Olyphant’s synthetic character Kirsh. Olyphant jokingly retorted, “Take it easy! It took an ugly turn,” highlighting the cast’s playful dynamic.

Alex Lawther’s Nostalgic Pitch: Bring Back Kane—And Ripley

Meanwhile, Alex Lawther (who portrays the resourceful Hermit) advocated for John Hurt’s ill-fated executive officer Kane. “I’d bring back John Hurt,” Lawther mused, adding whimsically, “Just to spend time with him… and go drinking in Thailand.” He then doubled down, proposing Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley could join: “He can bring Sigourney along!” Though Ripley’s Alien timeline begins later, Hawley’s “plausible” timeline expansion keeps hope alive for her eventual introduction.

Critical Acclaim: Early reviews praise Hawley’s fresh yet faithful approach. Dexerto’s review declared it “the best the franchise has been since Isolation,” underscoring its balance of suspense and innovation.

With Alien: Earth premiering August 12 on Hulu (US) and August 13 on Disney+ (UK), anticipation surges for its eight-episode arc. The series promises corporate conspiracies, body horror, and existential dread—all hallmarks of the franchise. Hawley’s willingness to bridge timelines means beloved characters could materialize sooner than expected.

As Alien: Earth redefines sci-fi horror television, its cast’s passion for legacy characters—from Ash’s chilling menace to Kane’s tragic humanity—signals a thrilling fusion of old nightmares and new frontiers. Stream the premiere to witness the evolution firsthand.

Must Know

Q: When is Alien: Earth set compared to the original Alien movie?
A: The series unfolds in 2122, two years before the Nostromo’s doomed mission in Alien (2124). This prequel era explores Weyland-Yutani’s early bioweapon experiments.

Q: Who does Noah Hawley envision joining Alien: Earth from the films?
A: While Hawley hasn’t confirmed specifics, he stated crossover events aligning with the original film’s timeline are “plausible,” leaving room for characters like Ripley or Dallas.

Q: Where can viewers watch Alien: Earth?
A: The series debuts August 12 on Hulu (US) and August 13 on Disney+ (UK), with all episodes releasing simultaneously.

Q: What new elements does Alien: Earth introduce to the franchise?
A: Expect synthetic-human “hybrids,” corporate cyborgs, and terrifying alien variants with evolved life cycles, expanding the Alien mythos beyond film lore.

Q: Could Sigourney Weaver appear in Alien: Earth?
A: Though unlikely in Season 1, Alex Lawther’s mention of Ripley and Hawley’s timeline flexibility make future appearances conceivable as the series progresses.