WARNING: SPOILERS ahead for Dexter: Original Sin episode 1!
Dexter: Original Sin Overview
The prequel series Dexter: Original Sin brings a fresh perspective to the beloved franchise, introducing new actors in familiar roles while unveiling new characters, including Babby Watt. Under the creative direction of Clyde Phillips, who also helm the acclaimed Dexter: New Blood, this series delves into a pivotal time in Dexter Morgan’s life. The narrative focuses on a post-college Dexter navigating his infamous “dark passenger,”guided by the moral compass established by his adoptive father, Harry. As he grapples with his violent impulses, Dexter adheres to Harry’s code, cautiously evading detection as he immerses himself in a world rife with crime.
The cast sees Patrick Gibson stepping into the role of Dexter, supported by a talented ensemble that includes Molly Brown, Christian Slater, Patrick Dempsey, and Sarah Michelle Gellar. After Michael C. Hall reprised his iconic role as the charming yet deadly Dexter in 2021’s Dexter: New Blood, he returns as the internal voice of Dexter in this prequel. Set in Miami in 1991, Dexter embarks on his journey as a rookie in the Miami Metro PD, hinting at significant developments that will deepen the existing lore of the character. Notably, another series, Dexter: Resurrection, is slated for a summer 2025 release, with Hall returning once again, suggesting that Dexter: Original Sin may kickstart a series of spin-offs and sequels.
New episodes of Dexter: Original Sin premiere every Friday exclusively on Paramount+.
Introducing Bobby Watt
Harry’s Close Companion at Miami Metro
Bobby Watt emerges as a significant new character in Dexter: Original Sin, introduced in the series premiere. He has a longstanding history with Dexter, serving as Harry’s best friend and partner at Miami Metro PD. Additionally, Bobby is the godfather to Debra Morgan, underscoring the close-knit relationships formed outside of professional realms. Portrayed by Reno Wilson, known for roles in Mike & Molly, Good Girls, and Fatal Attraction, Bobby is established as a seasoned veteran of the force who began his career in narcotics with Harry before moving into homicide.
Discussing his role, Wilson shared insights in an interview featured on Paramount’s “Autopsy Report”. He notes Bobby’s long tenure with Harry and insight into the dynamics of their partnership. The deep connections between Bobby, Deb, and Dexter indicate that their relationships will likely play a crucial role in the series as it unfolds.
Bobby’s Absence from the Original Series
Unexplored Character in Dexter’s Legacy
It is intriguing that while Bobby Watt plays a pivotal role in Original Sin, he was never acknowledged in the original Dexter series. This pattern extends to several new characters, such as Tanya Martin, the CSI Chief, and Aaron Spencer, the police captain, who were also never mentioned previously. Despite their shared affiliation with Miami Metro, Bobby’s significant ties to Harry and the Morgan clan raise questions about his absence in the earlier narratives.
The introduction of new characters brings an air of mystery, particularly regarding their fates as the story progresses. There is speculation that high-profile actors like Patrick Dempsey may not remain long-term due to the inherent dangers present in the series, raising the stakes for characters like Bobby who are intimately connected to Dexter’s story. Given the premise, there is always a chance that new characters may be revealed as threats or potential targets.
Foreshadowing Bobby’s Fate
Implications of a Potential Tragedy
Given Bobby’s warm rapport with the Morgans, there is a compelling sense that his character could face a tragic demise within the season. While this remains speculative, such an outcome would offer a possible explanation for the character’s absence in the original series, considering this prequel is set in a timeline where he could have made an impact. Utilizing Bobby Watt effectively within the narrative could enrich the storyline and provide an emotional anchor for the series as it potentially expands into future seasons. The hints toward his character’s possible fate create a compelling narrative tension that will keep viewers engaged.