It’s hard to believe, but the original “Dexter” premiered almost 20 years ago – in a time when TV shows could still run eight seasons. I really liked this show (even if it was inconsistent at times), and, as we are in the age of sequels and reboots, we’re going to get more of it – this time in the form of a prequel series called “Dexter: Original Sin.” Here’s everything to know about “Dexter: Original Sin,” debuting exclusively on Paramount+ With SHOWTIME on Friday, Dec. 13 before its on-air debut on Sunday, Dec. 15.

Everything you need to know about ‘Dexter: Original Sin’:

Watch the trailer for ‘Dexter: Original Sin’

What time will episodes of ‘Dexter: Original Sin’ come on Paramount+ With SHOWTIME?

“Dexter: Original Sin” will have 10 episodes, with new episodes released weekly. The series premieres on Friday, Dec. 13 for Paramount+ With SHOWTIME subscribers, and each subsequent episode will be available every Friday. The final episode is expected to be released on Feb. 14, 2025. For those watching on Showtime’s linear channel, the series will air on Sundays at 10 p.m. ET, starting on Dec. 15.

What is ‘Dexter: Original Sin’ about?

In the simplest terms, “Dexter: Original Sin” is an origin story. The 10-episode series takes us back to 1991, where we witness the early days of Dexter Morgan grappling with his dark, murderous impulses. This is where Dexter begins to learn the “rules” that will guide his future as a vigilante serial killer. Under the watchful eye of his adoptive father, Harry Morgan, a Miami Metro detective, Dexter is taught to channel his lethal urges toward a “greater good” by killing only those who deserve it (aka criminals who have gone free).

The series will definitely explore Dexter’s first kill: a nurse poisoning Harry, which sets him on his path of “righteous” violence. Beyond just the act of killing, viewers will see the birth of Dexter’s meticulous rituals, including the iconic kill room setup and the blood slide collection that defines him later in his life.

This prequel series is set 15 years before the events of the original “Dexter” – a time only hinted at in the original series. While the original show introduced Dexter’s first kill in flashbacks, “Dexter: Original Sin” will almost certainly bring it to life, showing the emotional and psychological toll (or lack thereof?) it has on Dexter as a young adult. At the same time, the series explores the foundations of Dexter’s relationships at Miami Metro and the seeds of his ability to blend in as a likable, donut-sharing colleague.

Beyond Dexter’s growth as a killer, the series has an opportunity to dive into Harry Morgan’s psyche as he creates “The Code.” How does a father reconcile training his son to kill, even for seemingly honorable reasons? “Dexter: Original Sin” could explore the guilt and desperation Harry experiences as a result of what he’s created in Dexter – a burden so heavy that he chooses to take his own life. This prequel promises not just answers, but a richer understanding of what drives one of TV’s most interesting characters.

Will Michael C. Hall appear in ‘Dexter: Original Sin’?

Sort of. While he doesn’t appear in person, he returns to the franchise as the narrator - the inner voice of the young Dexter Morgan, played by Patrick Gibson. If you want to catch Hall back to his old tricks as Dexter, you’ll have to wait for “Dexter: Resurrection” which continues where “Dexter: New Blood” left off.

Who are the main characters of ‘Dexter: Original Sin’?

• Dexter Morgan: Patrick Gibson takes on the iconic tole of Dexter - a recent university graduate in 1991 Miami. He grapples with emerging homicidal urges and begins his journey toward becoming a vigilante serial killer. Under his adoptive father’s guidance, he learns to channel his dark impulses by adhering to a strict moral code.

• Harry Morgan: Played by Christian Slater, Harry is Dexter’s adoptive father and a Miami Metro Police detective. Recognizing Dexter’s violent tendencies, he mentors him to target only those who have escaped justice, instilling a code to manage his son’s lethal urges.

• Debra Morgan: Molly Brown plays Debra, Dexter’s younger adoptive sister. Aspiring to follow in her father’s footsteps, she has no idea of Dexter’s dark side and shares a close bond with him during these formative years.

• Maria LaGuerta: Christina Milian takes on the role of Maria, an ambitious detective at Miami Metro determined to rise through the ranks.

• Angel Batista: James Martinez plays Angel, a young officer at Miami Metro. He crosses paths with Dexter during his early career, laying the groundwork for their future friendship.

• Vince Masuka: Alex Shimizu plays Vince, a forensic intern at Miami Metro. Known for his quirky personality, he forms an early professional relationship with Dexter.

• Captain Aaron Spencer: Patrick Dempsey plays Aaron Spencer - the head of Miami Metro’s Homicide Division. He oversees the department’s operations.

• Bobby Watt: Reno Wilson plays Bobby, Harry’s partner at Miami Metro. He works closely with Harry, unaware of the training Harry is giving Dexter.

• Tanya Martin: Sarah Michelle Gellar guest stars as Tanya, a CSI chief at Miami Metro. She collaborates with the homicide team, including Dexter, in solving complex cases.

• Inner Voice of Dexter Morgan: Michael C. Hall returns to the franchise as the narrator - the inner voice of the young Dexter Morgan.

Where can you stream the other ‘Dexter’ shows?

If you’re wondering how to get caught up with all things Dexter before the release of the prequel, “Dexter: Original Sin” and the spinoff, “Dexter: Resurrection,” the best way is with a subscription to Paramount+ With SHOWTIME.