James Remar
The actor who plays Harry Morgan, Dexter's adoptive father, in Dexter and Dexter: Resurrection.
James Remar is an American actor best known for playing Harry Morgan, the father of the title character, in Dexter (2006–2013) and Dexter: Resurrection (2025). In the series, Harry is Dexter Morgan's adoptive father, a Miami police detective who teaches the boy a code of ethics to control his homicidal urges. Though Harry dies before the events of the first season, his memory and teachings haunt Dexter throughout the show, serving as the voice of conscience and the architect of the 'Code' that governs his killings.
Quick Facts
- Birth name
- William James Remar
- Born
- 31 December 1953
- Birthplace
- Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
- Occupation
- Actor
- Years active
- 1978–present
- Spouse
- Atsuko Remar (1984)
- Children
- 2
Lore & Background
Harry Morgan's death occurs prior to the first season, transforming him from a living character into a constant psychological presence. Throughout Dexter, the title character frequently holds one-sided conversations with Harry's memory, seeking guidance or hearing stern warnings during moments of moral crisis. Remar was nominated for a Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Harry Morgan.
Reader's Guide
James Remar's casting as Harry Morgan grounded the show's surreal premise in human emotion. His work earned him a Saturn Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Did You Know?
- Before Dexter, Remar was best known for playing Ajax in The Warriors (1979) and Albert Ganz in 48 Hrs. (1982).
- Remar was originally cast as Corporal Hicks in Aliens (1986) but was replaced by Michael Biehn after being arrested for drug possession.
- Since 2009, Remar has done voice-over work in ads for Lexus luxury cars.
More in Lore & Behind the Scenes
Elsewhere in Dexter
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