The “Dexter” franchise faces significant challenges as it attempts to extend its narrative beyond the original series. In the concluding scenes of the recent sequel series, “New Blood,” which aired eight years after the original series wrapped up in 2013, Michael C. Hall’s infamous character Dexter Morgan appears to meet a definitive end when he is fatally shot. However, the franchise is exploring new territory with the impending release of “Dexter: Original Sin,” a prequel series that revisits Dexter’s early life.
Set in 1991, this 10-episode journey reintroduces a 20-year-old Dexter (played by Patrick Gibson) just as he begins his career as an intern at Miami Metro Police Department. Remarkably, the show not only delves into Dexter’s backstory but also suggests that the narrative of “New Blood” might not be as final as it seemed—implying Dexter survived.
Despite its promise, “Original Sin” faces criticism for recycling established plots. Fans of the original series may feel that they already know the contours of Dexter’s narrative, given the numerous flashbacks throughout the original show. While “Original Sin” attempts to integrate familiar characters from Dexter’s past—like Detective Batista and Masuka—the portrayal seems more like a rehash, lacking innovation. New characters do emerge; however, some feel more like nostalgic placeholders than fresh additions to the storyline.
The series does present some new angles, particularly in showing Dexter’s father, Harry, through a different timeline set in the 1970s. But this effort appears to mirror the existing flashback format from previous seasons rather than offering substantial development.
As excitement builds for the series, it serves as a window into the recent trend of reviving and re-examining popular cultural icons, even if the execution could benefit from a more original approach. The first episode of “Dexter: Original Sin” is currently available for streaming on Paramount+ and will officially debut on Showtime on December 15 at 10 p.m. ET, with subsequent episodes released on Fridays and Sundays.
While some may see the continuation of Dexter’s story as potentially redundant, there is hope that the new series could reignite interest in the character and provide a fresh perspective for both longtime fans and newcomers. Ultimately, the challenge remains: can “Dexter: Original Sin” forge a new path while honoring its complex lineage?