It seems like fans are saying what we’ve all been thinking about Resurrection and New Blood.
Dexter: New Blood and Dexter: Resurrection. Two sequels to the beloved original series that aired from 2006 to 2013, each separated by years but connected by Dexter Morgan, portrayed by Michael C. Hall. Yet, the story behind these two follow-ups couldn’t be more different. New Blood was originally conceived as the final chapter in Dexter’s story, closing the book on his legacy once and for all. But fate, and Hall’s change of heart, had other plans.
What was meant to be the end has now become a new beginning. Thanks to renewed interest and Hall’s willingness to return, Dexter: Resurrection not only exists but has already been renewed for a second season, currently in development. Still, many fans believe Resurrection might never have happened if New Blood’s finale had truly satisfied its audience.
Back in 2021, during production and ahead of its November 7 premiere, showrunner Clyde Phillips confidently stated that New Blood would “fix” the infamous lumberjack ending of the original series. For some, it did, but for many others, it only made things worse. The finale divided fans once more, with many criticizing the writing and emotional payoff, particularly regarding Dexter’s strained relationhsip with his son.
Harrison’s portrayal in New Blood became a significant point of contention. Older than his timeline suggested, the character often came across as whiny and resentful, constantly blaming Dexter for abandoning him. While his anger was understandable, the writing failed to make him sympathetic, and the fact that Harrison killed his father left fans furious. Those frustrations lingered for years, fueling disapointment and endless debates on social media.
Then came July 2024. Showtime announced Dexter: Resurrection, confirming Michael C. Hall’s return and effectively undoing Dexter’s death. Some were skeptical at first, questioning how the show would justify Dexter’s survival. Yet, Resurrection quickly proved it was a chance to correct past mistakes.
The series begins ten weeks after the events of New Blood, with Dex waking from a coma and heading to New York City to find Harrison. Their reunion feels grounded, emotional, and believable. Harrison, while still troubled, he is not the teen audiences struggled to connect with. In fact he’s more mature, independent, and finally accepting who he is while understanding his father’s darkness without letting it consume him. The dynamic between father and son, is now the emotional core of Resurrection.
Four years after New Blood’s premiere, the landscape feels completely different. To mark the anniversary, we at Dexter Daily asked fans on Instagram whether Resurrection had redeemed New Blood. Over 2,000 fans voted, and the results (so far) speak volumes. A striking 81% said yes, Resurrection successfully redeemed New Blood. Twelve percent still felt New Blood missed the mark, while seven percent remained undecided.
The verdict is definitely clear. By bringing Dex back to life Dexter: Resurrection restored faith in a story many thought was over.