Erik King

Erik King plays James Doakes in Dexter. His open suspicion is a welcome obstacle to Dexter Morgan's carefully maintained friendliness. Where other colleagues accept the smile, Doakes looks as though he would like it explained. King makes that resistance both tense and very entertaining.

He also plays Moses Deyell in Oz, and his film credits include National Treasure. In Dexter, much of his effect comes from how directly he occupies a scene. There is little interest in making an uncomfortable conversation easier for the other person.

That directness gives Michael C. Hall something particularly useful to work against. Dexter's usual social routine meets somebody who isn't impressed by the routine. King doesn't need a complicated speech to make the problem clear; a look can be enough to spoil Dexter's working day.