Let's see how the writers of the Dexter sequel handled the events of the previous finale.
Warning: The following article contains spoilers from Episode 1 of Dexter: Resurrection. Make sure to read until the end and cast your vote in our poll!
Who would’ve thought that after the Dexter: New Blood finale in January 2022 — marketed as the definitive ending of Dexter Morgan’s story — we’d see Michael C. Hall return once again as the iconic serial killer? And yet, here we are in July 2025, watching Dexter's story continue in the brand new sequel series, Dexter: Resurrection. With its two-episode premiere now behind us, fans are already buzzing — and many are surprisingly satisfied.
A Sequel No One Expected — Including the Cast
Back when New Blood wrapped up, the messaging was crystal clear: Dexter Morgan’s story was over. Everyone involved — from showrunner Clyde Phillips to director Marcos Siega and even Michael C. Hall himself — insisted that the character’s journey had reached its end.
But that changed in 2023, when Michael C. Hall reportedly approached Marcos Siega about the possibility of returning. That conversation lit the spark, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Now, in the summer of 2025, Dexter: Resurrection has officially aired its first two episodes, answering burning questions and offering a new path forward — one that many believed would never be possible.
How Dexter: Resurrection Explains the Unthinkable
Continuing Dexter Morgan’s story post-New Blood was no easy task. The finale saw Harrison shoot his father in the chest, seemingly ending Dexter’s life once and for all. So how could the writers bring him back in a way that felt (somewhat) believable — or at least narratively justifiable?
Let’s dive into how the Dexter: Resurrection premiere tackled the biggest questions fans have had since the series was announced.
How Did Dexter Survive Harrison’s Gunshot?
The final moments of New Blood showed Harrison shooting Dexter in what was assumed to be a fatal shot to the heart. But Episode 1 of Dexter: Resurrection, titled "A Beating Heart…", reveals the truth: Harrison missed the heart.
The bullet wound was indeed catastrophic, and Dexter suffered severe blood loss. However, thanks to the freezing temperatures of Iron Lake’s snowy forest, the bleeding slowed significantly — giving rescuers just enough time to save him. He was rushed to the hospital and placed in a coma for 10 weeks.
Why Wasn’t Dexter Arrested While in the Hospital?
Fans wondered why Dexter wasn’t handcuffed or placed in custody while comatose. The answer: self-defense.
Angela Bishop — who initially accused Dexter of being the Bay Harbor Butcher — changed her story. She claimed that Dexter acted in self-defense when killing Officer Logan and shifted the blame for the confrontation. With her revised testimony, Dexter was no longer considered a criminal threat.
What Happened to Angela’s Accusations?
In a surprising twist, Dexter: Resurrection reveals that Angela rescinded her accusations against Dexter. On the same day Harrison fled Iron Lake, Angela called Angel Batista to tell him she had been wrong.
Why the change of heart?
Dexter received a mysterious envelope from Angela while he was in the hospital. Inside: a photo of her and her late friend Iris — one of the many young women murdered by Kurt Caldwell. Knowing that Dexter killed Kurt, a serial predator, Angela ultimately decided that Dexter had done something right. The envelope was marked, "We're even."
That moment was a turning point — leading her to not only drop the Bay Harbor Butcher claims, but also to take responsibility for Dexter’s shooting.
Who Took the Blame for Shooting Dexter?
This was already addressed in the New Blood finale. Angela did. In a protective move to shield Harrison, she claimed she was the one who shot Dexter. Her motive was simple: to spare Harrison from a life haunted by what he did. Of course, she didn’t expect Dexter to survive.
Who Was Blamed for Logan’s Death?
Although Dexter was initially held responsible for Logan’s accidental death, Angela once again intervened. She claimed that Logan had tried to kill Dexter without cause — and a bullet found lodged in the cell ceiling backed up her story. It was enough to shift the narrative and clear Dexter’s name.
Fan Reactions and Early Reviews
Of course, not every fan is sold on these narrative choices. And yes, the plot gymnastics required to bring Dexter back stretch believability — but they also reflect the massive challenge the writers faced.
Dexter: New Blood was designed to be a limited series. Michael C. Hall had only agreed to return for a single season. But once he changed his mind, Clyde Phillips, Scott Reynolds, and the rest of the writing team had to reverse-engineer a continuation that felt at least somewhat earned.
And let’s be honest — fans wanted this. There was a huge outcry for a rewrite of Dexter’s ending, with viewers demanding a better resolution than the one New Blood delivered. So while the rebooted narrative might not satisfy everyone, it does offer longtime fans something they’ve longed for: more Dexter, alive and free.
So, What’s Next?
With Dexter: Resurrection off to a strong start and critical reception leaning positive, the future looks promising for this unexpected revival. The series is being hailed as a return to form, blending the dark charm of early Dexter seasons with the narrative weight of everything that came after.
What Do You Think?
Do you find these explanations satisfying? Do the creative liberties taken with the New Blood finale work for you — or do they cheapen what was once considered Dexter’s final moment?
Vote in our poll below and let your voice be heard!