Here's how to watch every Dexter series in the correct order.
The Dexter franchise will celebrate its 20th anniversary later in 2026, and over the years it has grown far beyond the original series. Since the first season premiered in 2006, the franchise has expanded with multiple spinoffs and revivals, bringing Dexter Morgan back to our screens long after the original show ended.
Following the series finale in 2013, Michael C. Hall returned as everyone's favorite antihero in 2021 for Dexter: New Blood. But that wasn't the end of the story.
Nearly three years later, the prequel series Dexter: Original Sin debuted with an entirely new cast. Set in Miami in 1991, the series follows a young Dexter Morgan, with Michael C. Hall returning to provide the character's inner monologue.
Just a few months later, another chapter arrived with Dexter: Resurrection, a sequel series featuring an all star cast that continues the story from where the present-day timeline left off.
For newcomers jumping into the franchise, there is one question keeps coming up. What is the correct order to watch every Dexter series? Here's a spoiler-free guide.
How to Watch Every Dexter Series in Order
1. Dexter Seasons 1-8 (2006-2013)
If you're watching the franchise for the first time, you should always start with the original series. It introduces the characters and the story that every other show actually builds upon.
2. Dexter: New Blood (2021-2022)
Once you've finished the original eight seasons, the next step is Dexter: New Blood, which serves as the first revival and continues Dexter's story years later.
3. Dexter: Original Sin (2024-2025)
Even though this series is a prequel, it's best watched after New Blood. A key scene in the premiere episode reveals huge information that actually spoils the ending of New Blood.
It also gives away one of the biggest surprises from the original Dexter series' first season, making it a poor starting point for first-time viewers.
4. Dexter: Resurrection (2025-)
The final series on the list is Dexter: Resurrection, which directly follows the events of New Blood. Since it continues the present-day timeline, it should be the last show you watch.
Should You Watch Dexter in Chronological Order?
As you can see, the best way to experience the Dexter franchise is in release order:
Dexter / Dexter: New Blood / Dexter: Original Sin / Dexter: Resurrection
Some folks suggest starting with Dexter: Original Sin because it's set earlier in the timeline, but that approach actually comes with major spoilers. The prequel reveals important events from both Dexter: New Blood and the original series almost immediately.
Because of that, watching the franchise in strict chronological order isn't recommended. For first-time viewers, release order remains the best and most rewarding way to experience every twist, surprise, and reveal that the so-called... 'Dexterverse' has to offer!