How “Dexter: Original Sin” Brings the Dark Passenger Back from the Dead

Dexter Morgan is back from the dead, and fans are losing their minds! The iconic Showtime series that first aired 18 years ago has been resurrected with Dexter: Original Sin, a prequel series that dives into Dexter’s early years. But here’s the twist—Michael C. Hall’s beloved serial killer isn’t just back narrating his past; he’s alive after being presumed dead at the end of Dexter: New Blood.

For those who need a refresher, Dexter: New Blood gave the character what seemed to be his final chapter. After being shot in the chest by his son, Dexter met his supposed end. Accepting his fate, he allowed his son to “put him down” to avoid a lifetime in prison or execution. It was an emotional and shocking conclusion that tied up years of storytelling—or so we thought.

Enter Dexter: Original Sin. The new series, which premiered Thursday night on Paramount+, opens with a bang by explaining exactly how Dexter survived that fatal gunshot. In the first episode, Dexter’s now ex-girlfriend Angela carries his lifeless body to an emergency room, where doctors frantically work to revive him. After several attempts with a defibrillator, Dexter’s pulse returns. In classic Dexter fashion, his inner monologue cracks a sly remark about his miraculous survival. He remains unconscious, though, possibly in a temporary coma.

Michael C. Hall hinted in an interview with Variety that the cold weather in Iron Lake may have helped slow his blood loss. “The snow and freezing temperatures definitely played a role,” he teased. Combined with the quick action of doctors, it was enough to bring The Bay Harbor Butcher back to life.

The revival of Dexter raises a ton of questions. At the end of New Blood, Dexter’s identity as a serial killer was publicly exposed, with Miami law enforcement on his tail. If he wakes up in a hospital bed, will he face the music, or will he find a way to slip through the cracks once again? Fans are also speculating how new cast members like Peter Dinklage and Gillian Anderson will fit into the story.

With Dexter: Resurrection already announced for June 2025, the suspense is only building. Where will the Dark Passenger take us next?

Dexter Morgan’s return is proof that some characters are simply too good (or bad) to stay dead. Love him or hate him, his story isn’t over yet—and fans are along for the ride.