This returning character may come as a surprise to some.
Dexter: Resurrection is already making waves for more than just its A-list cast. While the upcoming sequel series boasts an impressive lineup of new regulars and guest stars, it’s the return of familiar faces — even those long dead — that’s getting longtime fans talking.
So far, two major former characters confirmed to appear in Dexter: Resurrection are John Lithgow (as the infamous Trinity Killer, Arthur Mitchell) and Jimmy Smits (as Miguel Prado), both returning in brief guest star capacities. But during this weekend’s Dexter: Resurrection panel at CCXP Mexico, fans were surprised with another thrilling reveal: Erik King is officially returning as James Doakes.
Erik King’s Return Confirmed by Showrunner Clyde Phillips
At the main panel, which featured series star Michael C. Hall, David Zayas, executive producer Clyde Phillips, and writer/producer Scott Reynolds, Phillips dropped the exciting news. He included Erik King's name among the select few returning cast members, sparking immediate buzz across social media. While initial reports surfaced as unconfirmed rumors, we can now officially confirm: James Doakes is back.
How Will James Doakes Appear in the New Series?
Given Doakes' explosive exit in Season 2, fans naturally wondered — how could he possibly return? Clyde Phillips clarified that Doakes will appear in the form of a hallucination, likely as a haunting figure from Dexter’s increasingly tormented psyche.
It remains unclear if Doakes will be featured in the same hospital hallucination scenes as Trinity and Miguel, but that scenario seems the most probable based on Phillips’ comments.
Why Doakes’ Return Makes Perfect Sense
While all three posthumous returns have excited fans, it’s Doakes’ reappearance that feels the most thematically fitting. As the original scapegoat for the Bay Harbor Butcher killings, Doakes was falsely framed by Dexter, and his legacy has haunted the series ever since.
Now, with the Bay Harbor Butcher case back in the spotlight and Angel Batista leading an investigation, the psychological pressure on Dexter is intensifying. In this context, seeing Doakes again — even as a hallucination — is not just fan service, it's poetic justice.
Doakes is one of Dexter’s most iconic and beloved characters. Known for his intense stare, no-nonsense attitude, and infamous catchphrase, he left an indelible mark on the series.
A Fan-Favorite Returns After More Than a Decade
The last time Erik King portrayed Doakes was in a flashback during the Season 7 finale, “Surprise, Motherf**er!”* — an episode that remains a fan-favorite to this day. That return came five years after his character’s death in Season 2, and now, more than a decade later, King is stepping back into Doakes’ shoes once again.
For fans of the original series, this return isn’t just a nostalgic callback — it’s a powerful continuation of one of the show’s most compelling character arcs.
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