It’s a huge week for Dexter fans, and the perfect time to look back at every returning actor!
The moment Dexter fans have been eagerly awaiting is almost here — Michael C. Hall returns to television as the iconic Dexter Morgan this Friday, July 11, in the much-anticipated premiere of Dexter: Resurrection. And yes, we're just as excited as you are.
This new chapter kicks off with a two-episode premiere, but don’t get used to the double dose — the rest of the season will air one episode per week. With a thrilling new setting in New York City, a powerful returning cast, and storylines directly tied to Dexter: New Blood, this sequel series promises to reignite everything fans loved about the original — with a darker, more complex edge.
A New City, the Same Dark Passenger
While Dexter has left behind the sunny chaos of Miami, the killer within him remains very much alive. But this time, he’s not picking up where he left off so easily. The events of New Blood loom large — Harrison's near-fatal shooting, Angela Bishop’s discoveries, and most importantly, Angel Batista's knowledge that Dexter is still alive — all create a volatile backdrop that sets the tone for a gripping return.
In the months leading up to the premiere, several familiar faces — both living and long-gone — have been confirmed to return. Some were revealed officially through casting announcements and interviews; others teased their appearance in subtler ways. Now, with premiere week here, we’re rounding up every confirmed returning actor and character from the Dexter universe so far.
Spoiler Warning: The following list contains casting details that some may consider spoilers. Read on if you want to know who’s back in Dexter’s world — and why their return matters.
1. David Zayas (Angel Batista)
One of the most beloved characters from the original series, Angel Batista, is back — and this time, his role is far more prominent than his brief cameo in New Blood. David Zayas has been spotted filming in New York and appears multiple times in trailers, including a scene that hints at an intense reunion with Dexter. In a recent interview, Zayas revealed new details about Batista’s mindset — and what he really knows about Dexter’s past. Read more here.
2. James Remar (Harry Morgan)
Veteran actor James Remar reprises his role as Harry Morgan, Dexter’s adoptive father and inner moral compass. Though he was absent in New Blood, replaced by Debra’s ghost, Harry returns in the classic hallucination-style format we saw in Seasons 3 through 8. Remar’s distinctive voice and presence are already featured in teasers, adding a nostalgic layer that longtime fans will love.
3. Jack Alcott (Harrison Morgan)
Harrison’s return was almost a given — not just because he’s Dexter’s son, but because of their emotionally charged parting in New Blood. Actor Jack Alcott reprises the role, though fan reactions to Harrison’s character have been mixed. With a new direction for the sequel, all eyes are on how the writers will develop Harrison’s arc and reconnect him with Dexter’s story — for better or worse.
4. David Magidoff (Teddy Reed)
Teddy Reed, the well-meaning rookie cop from New Blood, is back — and actor David Magidoff says even he was surprised to be asked to return. While Teddy’s role in Resurrection remains tightly under wraps, it's likely he’ll bring some continuity to Dexter’s time in Iron Lake.
5. John Lithgow (Arthur Mitchell / Trinity Killer)
Yes, John Lithgow is back as the legendary Trinity Killer, albeit in a phantom or hallucination form. Lithgow confirmed in an interview that he filmed a scene set at the Seneca Nation clinic, where Dexter is "slowly coming back to life." His chilling cameo — like his Season 4 performance — is bound to be unforgettable. Lithgow’s return is a testament to just how much the actor still cherishes his role in the Dexter legacy.
6. Jimmy Smits (Miguel Prado)
After more than 15 years, Jimmy Smits returns as Miguel Prado, Dexter’s Season 3 frenemy. Though Miguel was killed long ago, sources suggest he’ll appear in a vision or dream — possibly alongside Trinity. Smits’ return is a surprising but welcome addition that expands the spiritual weight of Dexter’s past.
7. Erik King (James Doakes)
Fans, rejoice — Surprise, motherf***er! — James Doakes is officially back. While Showtime hasn’t confirmed it publicly, showrunner Clyde Phillips let it slip during a Mexico City Comic-Con panel. The official video later edited out the mention, but the recent Inside Dexter: Resurrection featurette showed a glimpse that all but confirms Erik King's return — likely as a hallucination or memory tied to Dexter’s guilt. Click here to see the visual evidence.
8. Christian Camargo (Brian Moser / The Ice Truck Killer)
Perhaps the most cryptic and creative reveal came from Christian Camargo, who played Brian Moser, Dexter’s brother and the infamous Ice Truck Killer. In a recent TikTok video, Camargo subtly confirmed his return by showing behind-the-scenes footage and his character’s costume from Season 1. Despite his last appearance being in Season 6’s “Nebraska,” Brian’s influence clearly lives on — and fans are here for it.
Are There More Returning Characters?
Absolutely — or at least, that’s what many fans suspect. Rumors continue to swirl about other characters making secret comebacks. Showtime has kept tight-lipped, possibly to protect key story twists and maximize surprise.
One absence that stands out, however, is Julia Jones, who portrayed Angela Bishop in New Blood. Despite her character’s critical role in uncovering Dexter’s identity, she’s been missing from all promotional material and cast confirmations — raising questions about whether she’ll appear at all.
Stay tuned to Dexter Daily this week—there's a lot of exciting new content coming your way!