Dexter: Original Sin Lacks Key Character from 7 Seasons of the Original Series

WARNING! This article contains SPOILERS for Dexter: Original Sin season 1, episode 5!

As the plot unfolds in Dexter: Original Sin, numerous iconic characters from the original series make a return at Miami Metro. However, the omission of certain pivotal figures introduces timeline inconsistencies that fans have begun to notice. Notably, this prequel features younger iterations of familiar characters, including Dexter Morgan, Harry Morgan, Debra Morgan, Angel Batista, Vince Masuka, and Maria LaGuerta. Set in 1991, the storyline delves into the transformations that Miami Metro undergoes over the 15 years leading to the launch of the original Dexter series.

While Miami Metro maintains a resemblance to its appearance in the first season of Dexter, several key players from that era are glaringly absent. For example, James Doakes is notably missing in season 1 of Dexter: Original Sin, although there remains a possibility for his introduction in later episodes. Perhaps even more surprising is the lack of Captain Thomas Matthews, a character who should already be a significant presence at Miami Metro by the time this prequel’s narrative takes place.

Captain Thomas Matthews’ Absence in Dexter: Original Sin Season 1

Matthews: A Close Ally of Harry Morgan

Interestingly, a younger version of Thomas Matthews is not depicted as an active officer in season 1 of Dexter: Original Sin. Captain Matthews, portrayed by Geoff Pierson, played a crucial role throughout the original Dexter series, appearing in seven of its eight seasons. Introduced as the police captain at the onset of the original series, Matthews had established tenure at Miami Metro long before that point. His relationship with Harry Morgan was not only professional but personal; they shared a close friendship long before Harry’s tragic death.

Given Matthews’ strong connection with Harry, it stands to reason that he would be an important figure within Miami Metro during the unfolding events of Dexter: Original Sin. Harry’s death occurs approximately one year after the prequel’s commencement, leading many to speculate that this key moment might be depicted in the season finale. Therefore, unless the prequel seeks to revise Matthews’ backstory and his bond with the Morgan family, his absence in the storyline is perplexing.

Although Matthews eventually receives a promotion to Deputy Chief by season 6, he should have already been established in a role at the station as early as 1991, working closely alongside Harry Morgan. It’s notable that Matthews was one of the few individuals privy to the truth about Harry’s demise— which was revealed to Dexter and Debra as heart disease, whereas Matthews knew it was due to an overdose during a suicide attempt. Harry, before his death, entrusted Matthews with the responsibility of looking after Dexter and Debra, a promise Matthews upheld throughout the original series.

The Role of Aaron Spencer in Dexter: Original Sin

Aaron Spencer: A New Captain Emerges

Instead of Thomas Matthews, the role of Captain at Miami Metro Homicide is assumed by Aaron Spencer, played by Patrick Dempsey. As a newly created character, Spencer was not referenced throughout the original Dexter series. His position as Captain and association with Harry Morgan effectively fill the void left by Matthews. While it’s conceivable that Matthews could have occupied a lower rank at this time, Spencer’s character fulfills the narrative function previously held by Matthews.

Key Dexter Characters Featured in Original Sin
Character	Actor in Dexter	Actor in Original Sin
Dexter Morgan	Michael C. Hall	Patrick Gibson
Debra Morgan	Jennifer Carpenter	Molly Brown
Harry Morgan	James Remar	Christian Slater
Angel Baptist	David Zayas	James Martinez
Vince Masuka	C. S. Lee	Alex Shimizu
Maria LaGuerta	Lauren Velez	Christina Milian

Ultimately, it remains uncertain whether Captain Spencer’s role is intended to completely eliminate Thomas Matthews from this particular period in Dexter’s life. It is entirely possible that Spencer simply holds the Captaincy during the first season, with Matthews set to come onboard at a later date. However, these characters do not share identical backstories— Matthews suffered the loss of his wife, whereas Spencer’s character is depicted as divorced. Consequently, even if Matthews ranked lower during this timeline, his absence raises significant continuity issues regarding the narrative of Dexter’s main series.

Potential Arrival of Thomas Matthews in Dexter: Original Sin

Possibilities for Matthews’ Introduction

Dexter: Original Sin Episode Snapshot — Image via Paramount+

Although Thomas Matthews is absent from season 1, there remains a chance he could be introduced in a future season of Dexter: Original Sin, should Paramount+/Showtime opt for a renewal. Several theories suggest possible scenarios for his eventual entry, predominantly centered around the speculation that Matthews could join the force following Captain Spencer’s departure.

One prevalent theory posits that Captain Spencer might meet a tragic fate, potentially being murdered by the same antagonist responsible for the death of Jimmy Powell. Alternatively, some less plausible theories hint at Spencer being the killer himself and ultimately ending up on Dexter’s table. There is also the scenario where Spencer resigns or is dismissed due to events connected to Dexter: Original Sin’s Jimmy Powell case, facilitating Matthews’ introduction as a new captain.

New episodes of Dexter: Original Sin season 1 air every Friday on Paramount+ with Showtime.

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