What is the plot?

The episode opens with Dexter Morgan, who is grappling with the aftermath of the events from the previous season. He is haunted by the death of his brother, Brian, and the emotional turmoil it has caused him. Dexter is seen in his apartment, reflecting on his life and the choices he has made. He is trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy while dealing with the weight of his dark urges.

As Dexter goes about his day, he is approached by his sister, Deborah Morgan, who is now a lieutenant in the Miami Metro Police Department. She is visibly shaken and struggling with the trauma of having killed a man in self-defense during the previous season's finale. Deborah is trying to cope with her new reality, and her relationship with Dexter becomes strained as she grapples with her feelings of guilt and confusion.

Meanwhile, a new character, Hannah McKay, is introduced. She is a beautiful and enigmatic woman who has a dark past involving murder. Dexter meets her at a crime scene where a body has been discovered. Hannah's presence intrigues Dexter, and he feels an immediate connection to her, which complicates his already tumultuous emotional state. He is drawn to her, sensing a kindred spirit in her darkness.

As the investigation into the murder continues, Dexter finds himself increasingly distracted by his feelings for Hannah. He begins to question his own motivations and the nature of his dark passenger. This internal conflict is heightened when he discovers that Hannah has a history of being involved with a serial killer, which makes him wary yet more fascinated by her.

Deborah, on the other hand, is dealing with her own demons. She is haunted by the memories of the shooting and is struggling to maintain her position in the department. Her relationship with Dexter becomes more complicated as she seeks his support while also pushing him away due to her own insecurities and fears.

The episode also introduces a subplot involving the Miami Metro Police Department's investigation into a new serial killer, which adds tension to the narrative. Dexter, while trying to balance his personal life and his role as a vigilante, becomes increasingly involved in the case. He uses his skills to gather information and track down leads, all while trying to keep his own dark activities hidden from his sister and the police.

As the episode progresses, Dexter's relationship with Hannah deepens. They share intimate moments that reveal their shared understanding of darkness and violence. Dexter is torn between his feelings for her and his responsibilities as a brother and a protector. This internal struggle is palpable as he navigates his dual life.

The climax of the episode occurs when Dexter makes a critical decision regarding Hannah. He chooses to confront her about her past, leading to a tense and emotional exchange. Dexter's desire to understand her motives and the nature of her actions drives him to take risks that could jeopardize his own safety and the safety of those he loves.

In the final scenes, the tension escalates as Dexter realizes that he must make a choice between his feelings for Hannah and his commitment to his sister. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving viewers questioning the future of Dexter's relationships and the consequences of his choices. The emotional weight of the episode lingers, setting the stage for the conflicts and developments to come in the season.

What is the ending?

At the end of "Are You...?", the first episode of Dexter's seventh season, Dexter Morgan finds himself in a precarious situation as he grapples with the aftermath of his actions. The episode concludes with Dexter realizing the implications of his choices, particularly regarding his sister, Debra, who has discovered his dark secret.


As the episode unfolds, the tension builds around Dexter Morgan, who is trying to navigate the fallout from the shocking events of the previous season. The episode opens with Dexter in a state of reflection, haunted by the memories of his past and the consequences of his vigilantism. He is acutely aware that his sister, Debra, is now embroiled in a web of deception that he has spun around her.

In a pivotal scene, Debra confronts Dexter about the truth of his actions. The atmosphere is thick with tension as she struggles to reconcile the brother she loves with the monster she believes he has become. Dexter, ever the master of manipulation, attempts to justify his actions, explaining his need to kill those who have escaped justice. Debra, however, is not easily swayed. Her emotional turmoil is palpable as she grapples with the reality of Dexter's double life.

As the episode progresses, Dexter's internal conflict intensifies. He is torn between his desire to protect Debra and the instinctual pull of his dark urges. The stakes are raised when Debra, in a moment of desperation, seeks to understand Dexter's motivations. She demands to know if he is a monster or if he can still be the brother she once knew. This confrontation serves as a turning point for both characters, as they are forced to confront the truth of their relationship.

In the climax of the episode, Dexter makes a fateful decision. He chooses to reveal the full extent of his secret life to Debra, laying bare the truth of his actions and the code he lives by. This revelation is met with a mix of horror and disbelief from Debra, who is left reeling from the knowledge that her brother is a serial killer. The emotional weight of this moment is heavy, as it signifies a fracture in their relationship that may never be repaired.

The episode concludes with Dexter standing alone, contemplating the ramifications of his choices. He is acutely aware that his life will never be the same, and the bond with his sister has been irrevocably altered. Debra, on the other hand, is left to grapple with the reality of her brother's darkness, unsure of how to move forward. The final scenes leave viewers with a sense of foreboding, as the implications of Dexter's secret loom large over their future.

In summary, the episode ends with Dexter and Debra at a crossroads, their relationship forever changed by the revelations of the night. Dexter's fate is intertwined with the consequences of his actions, while Debra must navigate the emotional fallout of discovering the truth about her brother. The episode closes on a note of uncertainty, setting the stage for the conflicts and challenges that lie ahead in their tumultuous relationship.

Is there a post-credit scene?

In the episode "Are You...?" from Season 7 of Dexter, there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes without any additional scenes or content after the credits roll. The focus remains on the main storyline and character developments throughout the episode, leading to a dramatic conclusion that sets the stage for the unfolding events of the season.

What happens to Dexter's relationship with Debra in this episode?

In this episode, Dexter's relationship with Debra becomes strained after she discovers his dark secret. Debra is grappling with the revelation that Dexter is a serial killer, which complicates their bond as siblings and law enforcement partners.

How does Debra react to finding out Dexter's secret?

Debra is initially in shock and disbelief upon learning that Dexter is a killer. She struggles with feelings of betrayal and confusion, leading to a confrontation where she expresses her anger and hurt.

What is the significance of the 'Ice Truck Killer' in this episode?

The 'Ice Truck Killer' is referenced in this episode as it ties back to Dexter's past and his development as a killer. The memories and implications of that case haunt Dexter, influencing his actions and decisions moving forward.

How does Dexter handle the aftermath of Debra's discovery?

Dexter attempts to maintain a facade of normalcy while dealing with the fallout from Debra's discovery. He tries to reassure her and protect her from the truth about his killings, showcasing his internal conflict between his love for her and his dark urges.

What role does the character of Hannah McKay play in this episode?

Hannah McKay is introduced in this episode as a new character who has a mysterious past. Her presence adds complexity to Dexter's life, as she becomes a potential love interest and a figure who may understand his darker side.

Is this family friendly?

In "Are You...?" the first episode of Dexter's seventh season, there are several scenes and themes that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

  1. Violence and Gore: The show features graphic depictions of violence, including blood and murder scenes, which are central to the storyline.

  2. Murder and Crime: The protagonist, Dexter Morgan, is a vigilante serial killer, and the episode includes discussions and depictions of his killings and the aftermath.

  3. Adult Themes: There are mature themes surrounding relationships, betrayal, and moral ambiguity that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

  4. Strong Language: The dialogue includes strong language and adult conversations that may be inappropriate for children.

  5. Psychological Tension: The episode contains intense moments that may evoke feelings of anxiety or discomfort, particularly related to the characters' emotional struggles and conflicts.

These elements contribute to the show's mature rating and may not be suitable for family viewing.