Last week, Showtime announced the limited season revival of Dexter. Fans, past and current, went crazy. The trailer was shared on all the big social media platforms and word has continued to spread.

Dexter follows the titular character, played by Michael C. Hall, through his everyday life. By day, he is a mild-mannered, even a little nerdy, blood spatter analyst. But by night, he is one of the most prolific serial killers never caught. Raised by his adoptive father—who happens to be a detective—Dexter learns how to maneuver through the world. He lives by what his father calls “The Code.”

There are eight seasons of Dexter, and fans of the show range from Gen-Z to Boomers. No spoilers, but we’re going to explore the fantastical elements of the show, so you can begin your next binge-watch thoroughly prepared.

This show is perfect for those who love true crime shows, detective procedurals, and are ever fascinated by what makes killers tick. What makes this guy unique is the constant inner-monologue Dexter has. He narrates his own life, and at times, lets his father take over.

In season one, we meet Dexter and learn a little bit about his life, how he came to be adopted (and why), and the truth of Dexter’s “condition.” The main cast is introduced, including Dexter’s adoptive sister Debra who is working toward her detective shield. At times, the office politics get in the way of Dexter’s true passion but watching him navigate a world that is utterly foreign to him can be laughable and bewildering. The Ice-Truck killer is our first serial killer. This foil intrigues Dexter—the killer drains their victims of all blood.

Season two introduces us to the Bay Harbor Butcher. No spoilers, remember? We get to see a lot of fallout from season one’s tumultuous end, but you’ll have to watch to see what I mean.

Fan’s favorite season tends to be season four. I’m in the middle of it now, and I have to agree. It’s good. And for all the right reasons. Dexter experiences a ton of life changes but has to adapt to overcome them. It’s watching a man who is incapable of feeling struggle to exist in the real world that gets us so close to him. Season four sees the return of a former season love interest for a main cast member as well.

There is much speculation on social media to Showtime’s reasons for revamping the show, but the consensus seems to be that fan outrage over a series finale that fell flat is what gives the new season such lift. According to an interview, showrunner Clyde Phillips says that the new season should be viewed as an “opportunity to write a second finale for the show.”

Ten years or so have passed in real time, so Phillips is leaving space here for Dexter too. “The show will reflect that time passage,” he says. He indicated that his, and Hall’s, return to the franchise was due to intense fan-love of the show. Sure, they were disappointed over the way things ended, but fans are even more excited to see their favorite serial killer back and, well, still at it.

All episodes of the show are currently streaming on Netflix, as well as available on Showtime.com.

Written by Cheyenne Heavener