Dexter showrunner Clyde Phillips recently addressed the possibility.
As we approach the one-month mark since Dexter: Original Sin concluded its first season, fans are eagerly awaiting news about a potential second season. Despite strong viewership numbers for both the series premiere and the season finale—something Paramount+ has repeatedly emphasized in its press releases—no official renewal decision has been made.
Showrunner Clyde Phillips, the cast of Dexter: Original Sin, and the network remain optimistic, especially since the prequel was never intended to be a one-and-done series.
Revisiting 1991: The Story So Far
The latest addition to the Dexter saga transported audiences back to 1991—15 years before the events of the original series. Alongside younger versions of familiar characters, Dexter: Original Sin introduced new faces at Miami Metro PD, including a significant casting addition: Sarah Michelle Gellar. The beloved actress, known for her iconic role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, brought star power to the series, drawing in a dedicated fanbase.
Sarah Michelle Gellar’s Role in Dexter: Original Sin
Gellar portrays Tanya Martin, the CSI Chief at Miami Metro. Though credited as a “special guest star,” her character plays a pivotal role in shaping young Dexter Morgan’s forensic expertise and moral code. While some fans speculated that her presence would lead to a more prominent arc, Tanya remained a relatively low-profile figure throughout the 10-episode season.
Following the season finale, Clyde Phillips expressed interest in Gellar’s return for a potential Season 2. Speaking to Variety, he stated:
“We definitely want her back if we can work out an arrangement with her other show.”
A Buffy Reboot on the Horizon
Meanwhile, buzz surrounding a Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot is gaining traction. Reports from Deadline and Variety (February 2025) suggest Hulu is close to greenlighting a pilot for a sequel series, with Gellar in final negotiations to reprise her legendary role as Buffy Summers. This new installment would center around a new Slayer, with Gellar taking on a recurring role rather than leading the show.
Previously hesitant to revisit Buffy, Gellar has recently warmed up to the idea, citing successful revivals like Dexter: Original Sin and And Just Like That… as proof that reboots can resonate with audiences. During an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show in December 2024, she teased, “There are ways to do it.”
Could Filming Conflicts Arise?
If both projects move forward simultaneously, scheduling conflicts could become a challenge. The Buffy pilot is expected to begin filming by mid-2025, with a writers’ room reportedly assembling—a strong indicator that Hulu anticipates a full series order. If Dexter: Original Sin is renewed and scheduled for a late 2025 production start, Gellar’s availability may come into question.
Balancing a recurring role in Dexter (likely spanning 5–10 episodes) alongside Buffy, where she also holds executive producer responsibilities, could prove difficult. Clyde Phillips’ remarks about “working out an arrangement” suggest some flexibility, but it remains unclear whether Paramount+ would adjust its schedule or reduce Tanya’s role to accommodate her.
At this stage, it’s too early to determine whether Buffy will impact Dexter: Original Sin Season 2. If the Buffy reboot remains in the pilot phase or encounters delays, Gellar could potentially film both projects without issue.
Given industry precedents for actors juggling multiple streaming commitments, Gellar may find a way to balance both roles—unless she is forced to choose. For now, fans of both Dexter and Buffy will have to wait and see how the pieces fall into place.