Dexter A quick chat with Dexter star Michael C Hall

Narrowly evading capture last time out, Miami blood-spatter analyst Dexter Morgan (Michael C Hall) resumes his deadly double life as the deliciously dark crime drama Dexter returns to FX for its third series.

This time around, the serial killer develops a dangerous friendship with politician Miguel Prado (Jimmy Smits), who seems to share Dexter’s bloodlust.

We caught up with Hall to find out more...

How has Dexter changed since we last saw him?
"At the end of last season, Dexter magically got away with everything he was on the hook for. He has emerged a more potent and self-possessed killer."

What can you tell us about the new series?
"In the first episode, Dexter attempts to do in a murderer, but kills another man instead. The victim’s brother is Miami’s assistant district attorney, Miguel Prado, who asks Dexter to help find out what happened. Dexter can do that, not only because of his job, but also because he is the person who did it!"

How does their relationship develop?
"I think there is a need in Dexter to confess his crimes. He’s simultaneously repelled by and attracted to Prado, and he starts to entertain the idea that he is potentially someone who could embrace him for who he really is."

What was it like working with Jimmy Smits, who plays Miguel?
"Jimmy is a huge presence and a wonderful actor. He walked in with incredible clout because of his work on The West Wing and NYPD Blue, but he never acted bigger than the story we were trying to tell."

Will there be more series of Dexter?
"There will be two more, which will hopefully allow Dexter’s story to reach a conclusion. I was glad my previous show, Six Feet Under, was properly tied up. It’s frustrating when shows are just cancelled."

Congratulations on getting married to co-star Jennifer Carpenter. Has romance affected your working relationship?
"Jennifer and I had an affinity as colleagues and friends before any relationship started, so there hasn’t been any awkwardness. I don’t think anybody has noticed any change."

A Dexter fan was charged last year with carrying out an alleged copycat murder. Do you feel any responsibility?
"I’m alarmed that someone who claims to have an affinity with Dexter behaved in a sociopathic way. But if someone has murderous impulses they are going to act on them anyway, without the influence of a TV show."

Are you afraid of being typecast?
There is a degree to which I will always be associated with the character, but I love playing Dexter. After Six Feet Under, I certainly didn’t imagine myself taking on another open-ended commitment. I like the way Dexter takes unique responsibility for his formidable dark impulses. I like how active he is. He is certainly no Hamlet!"

Keep up to date with all the latest American shows. Subscribe to TV&Satellite Week