IN CONVERSATION WITH PATRICK GIBSON
interview by JANA LETONJA
Actor Patrick ‘Paddy’ Gibson will be starring in ‘Dexter: Original Sin’, where he’ll be portraying the young Dexter. The prequel series will premiere on Paramount+ on 13th December. Patrick is known for his roles in shows like 'The Tudors', 'The OA' and 'Shadow and Bone'.
Dexter Morgan is an iconic character with a huge fanbase. How did you prepare to portray a younger version of such a complex character?
I started watching the original series as soon as I read the first scripts during the audition process. I wanted my portrayal of Dexter to support what Michael had created in the original, and for there to be a continuity between them so those first few weeks were about absorbing as much as I could, watching and listening to the original. But also, what I loved about the original was how much Michael brought his own personality to the role and so it was also important to me to allow that in for myself. It was about finding a balance there. Having Clyde Phillips return as showrunner was a major part of why I wanted to do this. Dexter is in the DNA of his scripts, so it really helps when bringing it to life.
What was it like stepping into the shoes of Dexter in the 90s? How does this time period influence his journey and the series’ tone?
There is a real vibrancy to that time period and that definitely seeps into all areas of the show's texture. A 90s backdrop is kind of perfect for Dexter with that blend of light and darkness.
This series explores Dexter’s formative years. What were the challenges in portraying his early murderous urges while still making him relatable?
There is a unique challenge in playing a character who is almost entirely void of empathy. As an actor, we are kind of trained to be as tuned in as possible to respond to the other actors in a scene, and so I really had to remind myself not to get caught up in the moment, especially when acting opposite this incredible cast who are all so affecting in their performances. There was also the challenge of keeping some continuity with Dexter that fans all know and love, while also making him feel less fully formed than when we meet him in the original. I’m excited about the opportunity to explore his development into a more seasoned killer as the show progresses.
The original ‘Dexter’ series was known for its dark humor and suspense. How does ‘Dexter: Original Sin’ balance these elements while diving into Dexter’s backstory?
I think that mix is one of the defining features of the show. There is a momentum to Clyde’s writing, every scene progresses the story while also revealing more about who these people are that we’re watching. There is a mystery element to this series that made me read the scripts faster than I may ever have done before. Humour is also a major part of this series. I think there is an inherent awkwardness to that phase in your life between teenage years and adulthood. You have one foot in both camps. Adults don’t quite take you seriously yet, but you’re also not a kid. It’s fun to watch a character who we know will become so capable in the future, stumbling through messy and difficult lessons. I think that evolution is going to be fun to watch.
What was your reaction when you first heard about this opportunity to play a younger Dexter?
When I first saw the audition come through there was definitely some trepidation. I mean, I loved Dexter so much that I knew it had to be done right. When I heard they had Clyde Philips at the helm once again, I got really excited. Even from the audition sides you could feel that 'Dexter' essence bleeding out of them and yet it felt like a standalone piece too. The writing is just so sharp and so much fun to play.
How do you think ‘Dexter: Original Sin’ will resonate with fans of the original series?
I think it has a similar story structure to the original, it draws you in quickly. The ‘whodunit’ element is what always first hooked me in the original and that is back and stronger than ever. And then there are a lot of Easter eggs in there too, which is really fun. I think being a fan of the original enhances the experience of what you’ve already seen, it adds layers and dimensions that are surprising and enlightening, but it’s also a great entry way if you’ve never seen the original.
Do you feel any added pressure or excitement knowing the global fanbase for ‘Dexter’ is so passionate?
A lot of people have asked about the pressure of it all. I feel a real responsibility to the fans but also to the character. Michael created something I deeply respect, and I didn’t take the task lightly. But when you’re working, you have to try not let too much of the noise in. Ultimately, I hope we made more of something people can love and enjoy, and I’m so grateful to all of the international fans I’ve already met. It’s really cool to see people’s passion for the show. I loved getting to meet everyone at CCXP. When you’re shooting, it can feel like you’re in this little bubble, so it was really special to get to meet such lovely people face to face in Brazil.
As an actor, how has portraying a character as morally complex as Dexter influenced your perspective on storytelling?
Without sounding too grandiose, it’s really part of why I love getting to act and tell stories. I think there’s a value in playing devil's advocate, in seeing the world through the eyes of someone who seems completely different to you. It’s made me realize I’ve often been drawn to characters who are very different from myself, which has made me also realize I should try push the needle in the other direction at some point in the future and do something that is closer to home.
What has been the most exciting role of your career so far, and why?
Aside from 'Dexter', of course, every role feels so different and the experience is often informed by the people around you, where you are in your life and who the character is. In terms of pure thrills, my first time on stage in Lynn Nottage’s 'Sweat' was up there. The cast and our director Lynette Linton were incredible. I also loved every second of making 'The OA'. Brit and Zal made it so unique and exciting. And more recently, Sarah Mintz’s 'Good Girl Jane' was one of the most exciting shooting experiences I’ve had thanks to her and the cast. That’s three, which is definitely cheating, but they honestly were all so much fun.
Beyond ‘Dexter: Original Sin’, what can you share with us about your other upcoming projects?
I am currently working on something very exciting that I can say nothing about yet, so stay tuned.
photographer FRANK OCKENFELS
grooming CHRISTINE NELLI
