A Trinity-based prequel series is still in development but has been placed on the back burner.
On February 6, 2023, Showtime announced ambitious plans for the Dexter franchise, revealing three new shows in development: A second season of Dexter: New Blood, focusing on Harrison’s adventures. Dexter: Original Sin, a prequel exploring a young Dexter Morgan’s life in 1991 Miami, and a prequel series diving into Arthur Mitchell’s early years as the infamous Trinity Killer.
After 15 months, Dexter: Original Sin was officially greenlit and is now streaming its first five episodes on Paramount+ with Showtime. The Harrison-centered New Blood sequel is indefinitely shelved, potentially canceled. Meanwhile, the Trinity Killer prequel remains in development, despite rumors of its cancellation, as confirmed by Deadline on December 22.
John Lithgow Joins the Dexter Franchise Again
Excitingly, John Lithgow, who masterfully portrayed the Trinity Killer, is returning to the franchise as the narrator of the upcoming prequel. His involvement mirrors Michael C. Hall’s role in Dexter: Original Sin, where Hall provides narration for the younger Dexter’s journey.
The Future of the Trinity Killer Prequel
The fate of the Trinity Killer prequel heavily depends on the success of Dexter: Original Sin. According to Clyde Phillips, the entire Trinity Killer series has already been written, and Scott Reynolds is involved as well. However, its production is on hold for now. While promoting Dexter: Original Sin in New York City, Phillips shared:
“We wrote the entire Trinity Killer series. At the moment, it is on the back burner. John Lithgow has agreed to be the voice of his younger self, the way Michael Hall is doing for Original Sin.”
If Dexter: Original Sin, starring Patrick Gibson, secures a second season, it will indicate strong viewer interest in Dexter prequels, likely paving the way for the Trinity Killer series to receive an official green light.
Fan Reactions to the Trinity Prequel
We asked Dexter Daily followers on Instagram about their thoughts on the Trinity Killer prequel. While some expressed reluctance to revisit the story of the man who killed Dexter’s wife, Rita, in the shocking Dexter Season 4 finale, the majority seemed open to the idea. Out of 1,904 votes so far, 46% support the Trinity prequel, 29% oppose it, and 25% remain skeptical.
Dexter’s Resurrection and Franchise Expansion
While fans await news about the Trinity Killer prequel, Showtime is focusing on its next major project, Dexter: Resurrection. Production begins this week, with Michael C. Hall reprising his iconic role as Dexter Morgan. As the centerpiece of the franchise, Dexter: Resurrection is expected to dominate the spotlight for now.
The success of Dexter: Original Sin will ultimately determine the future of the Dexter universe. With Paramount+ and Clyde Phillips expressing interest in more seasons, there’s hope for continued expansion, including the Trinity prequel.
Early viewership data for the premiere of Dexter: Original Sin, which debuted on December 13, has been overwhelmingly positive. Within its first three days, the episode drew over 2.1 million viewers worldwide, setting a record as Showtime's most-watched premiere episode ever. These impressive numbers hint at the series becoming a major success!