Is Joe Dexter’s Biological Father Revealed in Dexter: Original Sin Season 1 Episode 2?

WARNING: SPOILERS ahead for Dexter: Original Sin episode 2.

The second episode of the Dexter prequel titled Dexter: Original Sin possibly introduces viewers to Dexter Morgan’s biological father, Joe Driscoll, during “Kid in a Candy Store.”This series, developed by Clyde Phillips, who also created Dexter: New Blood, explores a post-college phase in Dexter’s life where he grapples with his “dark passenger”under the mentorship of his adoptive father, Harry. The cast features Patrick Gibson in the leading role, with notable additions like Molly Brown, Christian Slater, Patrick Dempsey, and Sarah Michelle Gellar.

Michael C. Hall, who famously portrayed Dexter, reprises his role in the prequel, serving as the inner voice and narrator. Set in Miami during 1991, the series delves into Dexter’s initial experiences at the Miami Metro Police Department. Additionally, another installment, Dexter: Resurrection, is scheduled for a summer 2025 release, featuring Hall’s return once again.

New episodes of Dexter: Original Sin are uploaded every Friday on Paramount+.

Revelation of Dexter’s Biological Father: Joe Driscoll

Ambiguity Surrounding Joe’s Depiction in Episode 2

Reno Wilson and Christian Slater in Dexter: Original Sin

Episode 2 of Dexter: Original Sin may include a significant moment involving Joe Driscoll. A flashback reveals Harry Morgan in his role as an undercover officer during which Dexter’s mother, Laura Moser, engages in drug dealing with Joe, her boyfriend at the time. As Harry intervenes, he detains Joe, forcing Laura to confront the situation. This tense encounter raises questions about Joe’s fate, as Harry informs Laura of Joe’s impending imprisonment.

Despite the implications, it remains uncertain whether this drug dealer is indeed Dexter’s biological father, Joe Driscoll. The original series confirmed that Joe was a former drug dealer and addict, leading viewers to speculate about his identity. However, Joe Driscoll does not appear in the episode’s credits, leaving ambiguity about his role and potential story development in future episodes, especially as the series progresses into February 2025.

Why Harry Assumed the Role of Dexter’s Guardian

Joe’s Absence during Laura Moser’s Death

Patrick Gibson smiling wickedly in Dexter: Original Sin

If the drug dealer referenced in episode 2 is indeed Joe Driscoll, his criminal activities would have led to significant prison time, keeping him away when Laura Moser was fatally wounded. This absence allowed Harry to adopt and raise Dexter. Joe Driscoll’s character is referenced in season 1, noting that he met his end at the hands of Dexter’s brother, Brian Moser, known as the Ice Truck Killer. Up until Brian’s revelation, Dexter believed Joe had perished during his childhood. The unfolding narrative in Dexter: Original Sin may further clarify Joe’s situation and its impact on Dexter’s path as a vigilante.

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