Alex Parrish | |
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Quantico character | |
First appearance | "Run" |
Last appearance | "Who Are You" |
Created by | Joshua Safran |
Portrayed by | Priyanka Chopra |
In-universe information | |
Full name | Alexandra Parrish |
Nickname | Alex |
Species | Human |
Gender | Female |
Occupation | |
Family |
|
Significant other | Ryan Booth (ex-fiancé) |
Nationality | Indian American |
Alexandra Parrish is a fictional character and the protagonist of the American television drama thriller series Quantico on ABC. The character was created by Joshua Safran and is portrayed by Indian actress Priyanka Chopra. Her casting has received widespread praise and media attention, crediting ABC for bringing more diversity to a mainstream American series on a big network.
The focal point of the series, Alex was introduced as a recruit at the FBI Academy, Quantico, Virginia. Alex eventually became an FBI field agent and later the prime suspect for a terrorist attack on Grand Central Terminal. Despite clearing her name, she was fired from the Bureau and went on to join the CIA, where she was later named a fugitive for releasing classified U.S. intelligence to the public. The series focuses on her struggle to keep her country safe, while juggling her career and maintaining her on and off relationship with boyfriend Ryan Booth and her friendship with her best friend Shelby Wyatt. Originally conceived as a white character, Alex's characterization changed significantly following Chopra's casting, which came as a result of a talent holding deal ABC Studios had with the actress.
The character has garnered positive reviews from critics and Chopra was immediately praised for portraying her, with James Poniewozik of The New York Times naming her the "strongest human asset" of the show, while other critics have called her "charismatic and commanding". For her performance as Alex, Chopra has won two People's Choice Awards: Favorite Actress in a New TV Series in 2016, making her the first South Asian to win a People's Choice Award, and Favorite Dramatic TV Actress in 2017.