Dexter: Original Sin cast share anxiety stepping into iconic roles

Dexter: Original Sin cast share anxiety stepping into iconic roles

As a longtime fan of Dexter, I can confidently say that stepping into such a beloved and intricate world as Original Sin must have been both exhilarating and nerve-wracking for Christian Slater, Molly Brown, Christina Milian, and the rest of the cast.

Showtime’s Dexter is obsessed with death, but this killer franchise refuses to pass on regardless.

Eight years after wrapping up the original show in 2013, I stepped back into the iconic role of Dexter for the spin-off series, “Dexter: New Blood,” which was released in 2021.

Although the initial series ran for just one season, two upcoming shows, Dexter: Resurrection and Dexter: Original Sin, will carry forward the legacy of the avenging angel. In Dexter: Resurrection, we’ll witness the character’s return, while Dexter: Original Sin offers a ’90s-set prequel that delves into the killer’s origins.

Entering a cherished and expansive series, one that’s been around for quite some time, can feel intimidating, even for a seasoned actor such as Christian Slater, famously recognized for his Golden Globe-winning performance in the critically acclaimed Mr. Robot (2016).

Much of that pressure comes from the reverence he and his co-stars feel for the original show.

Slater expresses his excitement about joining this new realm, yet admits a touch of apprehension since they hold the series in high regard. Their aim was to create a show that paid tribute to the original, while still maintaining its unique identity.

In the spin-off series, Christian steps into the shoes previously filled by James Remar’s character, Harry Morgan, who was the one who established the code that Dexter follows in the original series. This code is a key aspect of Dexter’s life and actions.

As I delved into the world of ‘Original Sin’, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of stepping into characters that were already deeply etched in the minds of millions, thanks to the beloved series ‘Dexter’. It’s a challenge, no doubt, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into familiar roles and explore uncharted territories of their stories.

“I love [James] Remar,” says Slater. “I mean, he’s a legend. So it was intimidating but exciting.

Molly Brown, my co-star, expresses a similar thought: “It’s both exciting and intimidating to embody a well-known character that was originally portrayed by a legendary actor. You feel as though you must continue the legacy of that icon.

In an upcoming series, someone portrays a younger adaptation of Debra Morgan, previously played by Jennifer Carpenter. It’s not just about mimicking her character; it involves more than that.

Brown stated, “The characters are deeply ingrained in the writing,” he said. “I’m not required to merely imitate Jennifer Carpenter. To the contrary, if I try to do so, my performance will suffer, as the delivery may be identical, but it lacks depth because I’m not bringing my own emotions into it.

Dexter: Original Sin cast share anxiety stepping into iconic roles

Nonetheless, fellow actor Christina Milian points out that it’s inevitable to examine the initial portrayal in some fashion, much like she did here for her character Captain Maria LaGuerta.

Milian admits that he drew significant inspiration from the original Maria LaGuerta, portrayed by Luna Lauren Vélez. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and appreciating her portrayal, as well as comprehending how the character evolves over time.

“She definitely planted the seed. I now have to grow the roots.”

Reflecting on this, I can’t help but wonder about the fifteen years that preceded the woman we’ve come to know. At fifteen years her junior, I would be an entirely different person myself.

However, despite my initial impression, there were aspects of her character that seemed deeply rooted in her personality. Maria is incredibly determined; she’s driven to solve these crimes. As an immigrant who made it here alone, she has a lot to prove and cases to settle. Her rise to the captaincy wasn’t accidental.

Although joining the show was quite terrifying, as expressed by Milian – “It was truly frightening!” – they still managed to have a great deal of “enjoyment” during the filming of the prequel.

It suits a series such as Dexter, since its killings possess an unusual, entertaining element – a mix of soap opera and dark intrigue.

On Friday, 13th December, Dexter: Original Sin makes its debut on Paramount Plus, with new episodes dropping every week, Fridays only. Start your Paramount Plus journey today with a complimentary seven-day trial available exclusively through Amazon Prime Video.

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2024-12-14 11:04