Let’s explore the scenes filmed on location in Miami, as opposed to those shot in Los Angeles.
Dexter: Original Sin has officially reached the halfway point in its 10-episode first season. Filming for the highly anticipated series began on June 5, 2024, in Miami, Florida, where cast and crew worked on various exterior scenes to authentically capture Miami's iconic vibe. For a show like Dexter, where Miami is essentially a character of its own, these efforts are crucial.
Among the cast members who spent 10 days filming in Miami were Patrick Gibson, Christian Slater, Alex Shimizu, Molly Brown, Isaac Gonzalez Rossi, and Jasper Lewis.
For viewers unfamiliar with Los Angeles or Miami, distinguishing the real Miami scenes might be tricky. Similar to the original series that aired from 2006 to 2013, the majority of Dexter: Original Sin is filmed in Los Angeles. Interestingly, the pilot episode of the original Dexter series, filmed in early 2005, was shot entirely in Miami—a fact worth noting as the pilot turns 20 years old this year.
Most of the action for Dexter: Original Sin takes place at CBS Radford Studios, where key sets like the Miami Metro P.D. headquarters and Morgan family home are located.
Let’s dive into the real Miami locations featured in the first half of the season!
Real Miami Filming Locations in Dexter: Original Sin
1. Miami University Tents – Episode 101: “And in the Beginning...”
The scene where Dexter strolls through Miami Metro Hurricane tents and meets young Masuka for the first time was filmed in Miami during early June. Back then, we shared set photos (click here) showing Patrick Gibson as young Dexter, complete with his wig.
2. Harry and Morgan’s Hunting Trip – Episode 101: “And in the Beginning...”
This scene, filmed on June 5, 2024, was the very first shot for Dexter: Original Sin. It features Patrick Gibson and Christian Slater as Dexter and Harry, respectively, engaging in a heated conversation during a hunting trip that ends with a health scare for Harry.
3. Gio’s Luxurious Apartment with Deb – Episode 104: “Fender Bender”
In Episode 104, we see Gio, Deb’s new boyfriend, picking her up for a drive. While the driving scene—set to Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence"—was filmed in Los Angeles, the scene of Deb enjoying a drink at Gio’s luxurious apartment was shot in Miami. The breathtaking Miami skyline seen through the window was entirely real, with no green screen involved. Fun fact: During the Miami scenes Molly Brown are a bit longer than in the ones shot in L.A. months later. She also seems a bit more shy and nervous about getting into the role of deb for hte first time.
Here’s a fun detail we noticed: During the Miami-filmed scenes, Molly Brown’s portrayal of Deb feels a bit different compared to the scenes shot in Los Angeles months later. She appears slightly more reserved and nervous, perhaps as she was stepping into the role of Deb for the very first time.
4. Late-Night View with Gio and Deb – Episode 105 “F is for F*ck-Up”
The latest episode offers another genuine Miami scene. Gio and Deb share a romantic moment in his convertible, enjoying the stunning night view before things heat up. Set photos from this scene were leaked back in June, and we featured them here on Dexter Daily. Click here to see the photos.
Challenges of Filming Miami in Los Angeles
The cast and crew have often highlighted the challenges of making Los Angeles resemble Miami. From painting buildings in vibrant colors to carefully selecting camera angles to avoid Los Angeles’ mountainous backdrop (since Miami is completely flat), the production team faces significant hurdles.
Spot More Real Miami Scenes in the Second Half of the Season!
As Dexter: Original Sin continues, fans can expect more authentic Miami moments in the second half of Season 1. Keep an eye out and let us know which other scenes you think were filmed in the Magic City!