In an interesting move, the “Dexter” franchise is set to explore the beginnings of its famed serial killer, Dexter Morgan, in a new prequel series dubbed “Dexter: Original Sin.” This series began on Friday on Paramount+ with Showtime, transporting viewers back to 1991 Miami to uncover the origins of Dexter’s complex character.
The show, starring Patrick Gibson as a young Dexter, takes a unique look at his upbringing under the direction of his father, Harry Morgan, played by Christian Slater. The story unfolds through the eyes of a young serial killer in training, providing insight into Dexter’s formative experiences and moral quandaries.
Clyde Phillips, the creator who oversaw the first four seasons of the original series, was inspired by successful prequel models such as the “Yellowstone” franchise. “After we wrote ‘Dexter: New Blood,’ Chris McCarthy from Paramount suggested a prequel,” Phillips told Deadline. “We were excited about revisiting Dexter’s roots and understanding how he became who he is.”
The series begins with a surprising twist: Dexter, who looked to have been killed by his son Harrison in the season finale, is revived in the hospital. This dramatic scene sets the groundwork for a lengthy origin story that weaves together multiple eras and tackles long-held fan ideas regarding Dexter’s history.
Michael C. Hall, who plays Dexter, is the series’ star and its executive producer and narrator. His involvement adds a crucial feeling of continuity to the franchise. “I don’t see how we could have done this without Michael’s participation,” Phillips told me. “When you hear his voice, you pay attention.”
Sarah Michelle Gellar stars as a leading Miami investigator, and Patrick Dempsey plays a clever police captain in “Original Sin.” The series intends to explore Dexter’s early forensic training and the evolution of his “dark passenger,” a term used to define his darker tendencies.
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Looking ahead, “Original Sin” lays the basis for another series, “Resurrection,” which is set to begin production in early 2025. This forthcoming series will also star Hall and feature narration by Gibson, broadening the Dexter universe.
The franchise has proven successful, with “New Blood” becoming Showtime’s most-watched series ever, with over 8 million viewers per episode. This high viewing shows a huge desire for additional stories about the morally ambiguous serial killer.
Phillips guarantees a compelling experience to both old fans and novices. “For those who enjoy Easter eggs, this is an Easter egg hunt,” he informed us. “We can weave flashbacks into our story, revealing more about Dexter’s fate.”
