Michael C. Hall’s crime drama, Dexter, has extended into a full-fledged franchise with several spin-offs, with Original Sin being the most recent. Both the original series and its spin-off have several unsettling moments. However, in addition to the graphic details, what left many uncomfortable was the controversial storyline involving the titular antihero and his adoptive sister, Debra Morgan.
The showrunners have revealed that it was something that they had considered since the early seasons. And while the original series ultimately abandoned it following a massive backlash, the prequel spin-off, Original Sin, has an opportunity to finally address the controversial storyline in a more organic way.
Showrunner revealed Dexter and Debra’s controversial romance was considered since the early seasons
The Showtime hit, Dexter, introduced its titular serial killer to have a strong and deep bond with his adoptive sister, Debra Morgan (Jennifer Carpenter). As the only family left to each other, the two are often presented as close friends than the average siblings.
However, the season 6 finale took their connection in a controversial direction by adding a romantic angle. The season finale follows Debra confessing her feelings to her psychiatrist, revealing that she is in love with Dexter (Michael C. Hall).
However, showrunner Scott Buck later revealed that it was something that the writers had considered for a long time. “It’s an idea that has been talked about in the writer’s room, I think, from at least season two,” he told The Wrap in an interview, explaining that they finally decided to explore it in Season 6.
It just felt like those kind of feelings were very integral to the character of Deborah, that she was in love with her brother without even realizing it. It’s something we’d always talked about and it just felt like it was time to finally deal with that issue.
However, the romantic angle between the two characters, who were introduced and portrayed as siblings, sparked a massive backlash. Though they were not biologically related, viewers strongly opposed the storyline, noting that was unnecessary and lacked significant substance.
Following the backlash, the series ultimately abandoned the plotline. However, since Scott Buck revealed that the idea was embedded in the show’s narrative as early as Season 2, Dexter: Original Sin cannot simply ignore it.
Dexter prequel has an opportunity to address one of its most controversial storylines
Set 15 years before the events of the original series, the prequel spin-off, Dexter: Original Sin follows the titular antihero reflecting on his youth and transition into an avenging serial killer.
Starring Patrick Gibson as the young Dexter, the series also follows his relationship with his adoptive sister, Debra, portrayed by Molly Brown. However, unlike in the original series, their dynamic begins on a strained note.
After Harry brings Dexter along, Debra grows increasingly jealous of their relationship and struggles to connect with the two. However, as the series progresses, Dexter and Debra gradually form a closer relationship, with frequent hints at the deep connection they will share in the future.
With the prequel revisiting Dexter and Debra’s early years, the series has an opportunity to explore their complex bond with more nuance and greater psychological depth, providing clarity to one of the most controversial storylines of the franchise.
Season 1 of the show concluded recently and while a second season has yet to be confirmed, the show’s positive reception and its season-ending setup suggest that a renewal is likely.
Dexter and Dexter: Original Sin are available to watch on Paramount+ with Showtime.
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