Dexter (2006 — 2013)

The American drama show, Dexter (2006–2013), was broadcast on Showtime for seven years, starting in October 2006 and ending in September 2013. It takes place in Miami and follows the story of Dexter Morgan, a forensics expert with a focus on analyzing bloodstains for the fictional Miami Metro Police Department. However, he also leads a covert double life as a vigilante serial killer. His targets are those who have escaped justice due to corruption or loopholes in the legal system. The show received positive reviews throughout its entire run, with the first four seasons receiving universal acclaim. However, as the series progressed, reception declined significantly. It has also received numerous awards, including two Golden Globes for the roles of Dexter Morgan and Arthur Mitchell played by Hall and John Lithgow. The season finale of the fourth season aired on December 13, 2009, to a record-breaking audience of 2.6 million viewers. This episode holds the title of being the most-watched original series episode on Showtime at that time. In April 2013, Showtime announced that season eight would be its final season. The premiere of this season was also the most watched episode in Dexter’s history, with over 3 million viewers tuning in. The series finale aired on September 22, 2013, drawing an impressive audience of 2.8 million viewers – making it the most highly viewed finale in Showtime’s history.

After losing his mother at a young age, Dexter was taken in by Miami police officer Harry Morgan. Growing up with the trauma of his mother’s murder and developing sociopathic tendencies, Dexter was trained by Harry to use his violent impulses for good by targeting dangerous criminals who evade punishment through the legal system. In order to maintain his secret killings, Dexter secures a job as a blood spatter pattern analyst at the Miami Metro Police Department. Dexter effectively manages his dual identities, acknowledging each as integral components that must harmoniously function as a whole. He relies on their synergy for survival and a sense of normalcy. Despite his unrelenting homicidal urges, which he openly admits through narration, he continuously strives to experience genuine emotions and uphold a facade of social responsibility throughout the series.