Dexter is one of the longest-running Showtime drama series of the mid 2000s. Created by James Manos Jr., this horror-crime drama series has amassed a cult following, with more than 24 Primetime Emmy nominations. The dark, often gory set-up of each episode, combined with the dry humor of its protagonist, made Dexter stand out among competition with similar police procedurals. From the excessively gory moments to the highlights of the story, here are some of the best episodes of Dexter, ranked:

8 S4/E10 – Lost Boys

Directed by Keith Gordon, this episode pays homage to the story of Peter Pan and the Lost Boys. The reference is important to Trinity’s kill count, with each of his victims representing the Lost Boys of Neverland, who disappeared due to their parents’ negligence. When a ten-year-old boy disappears suddenly, Dexter is forced to reconsider his theories surrounding the Trinity Killer. Combined with the guilt of letting Arthur live, despite all the chances he had to kill him, Dexter needs to stop him in time before another life is lost.

7 S1/E12 – Born Free

Directed by Michael Cuesta, this episode, originally referred to as “Black Heart Optional“, features the incredible, long-awaited final showdown between Dexter and the Ice Truck Killer. Dexter is faced with a mortal dilemma leading up to his confrontation with the Ice Truck Killer. Torn between killing Debra or sparing her life in exchange for the life of his brother, Brian, emotions run high in this episode for Dexter and the team.

6 S1/E1 – Dexter

While most TV shows regard the pilot episode as some of their weakest works, the same cannot be said here. Directed by Michael Cuesta, this nearly-perfect episode serves as the introduction to the show’s beloved characters for years to come. With ratings from over one million watchers, the pilot episode also became Showtime’s highest-rated episode in two years. Vigilante serial killer Dexter Morgan’s quiet world is shaken like a snow globe when a mysterious criminal known as the Ice Truck Killer threatens to expose him. To make matters worse, Dexter’s detective sister Debra has just been transferred to the homicide department, making her another thorn in Dexter’s side.

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5 S4/E11 – Hello, Dexter Morgan

Directed by SJ Clarkson, this episode’s final scene between Dexter and Arthur goes down in history as the greatest scene from the entire show. With a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Sound Mixing, this episode is just a cut above the rest on this list. When Debra’s investigation leads the homicide team just one step away from identifying Arthur as the Trinity Killer, Dexter must do what it takes to buy himself more time and seek protection from the collateral damage.

4 S2/E11 – Left Turn Ahead

Directed by Marcos Siega, this episode is unique in the focus that it provides to the code left behind by Dexter’s father, before he committed suicide. It’s an emotionally charged episode filled with internal turmoil and constant second-guessing on Dexter’s part, which makes for a gripping watch. When Lila West accuses Angel Batista of sexually assaulting her, and tries to blackmail Dexter into taking her back, the Bay Harbor Butcher considers turning himself in to the police to ease all the trouble caused. Meanwhile, Debra grows increasingly exasperated with Lila’s antics, resolving to take risky maneuvers to deal with her.

3 S7/E1 – Are You… ?

Directed by John Dahl, this season seven premiere is one of the most-watched Dexter episodes of all time, bringing in a grand total of 2.4 million watchers during its original airing period. One of the most impactful episodes of the series, this episode marks the moment that Debra finds out her brother is a serial killer. When new evidence mysteriously turns up, Captain LaGuerta feels uncertain about the closed Bay Harbor Butcher case. Elsewhere, having witnessed her brother kill Travis Marshall, Debra tries her best to get rid of the evidence, covering up the murder and reconciling with Dexter.

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2 S7/E12 – Surprise, Motherf*****!

The season-long cat and mouse chase comes to a heated climax at number two in this epic season finale. Directed by Steve Shill, this episode pays homage to Sergeant James Doakes’ catchphrase, bringing things full circle to the season one finale episode “Born Free”. With Captain LaGuerta hot on his killer’s tail, Dexter must do whatever it takes to protect himself and Debra from a life sentence in prison, even if it means reconciling with old foes and past nemeses.

1 S4/E12 – The Getaway

As far as season finales go, nothing tops the ending of season four. Directed by Steve Shill, this episode shocked fans and non fans alike, featuring the darkest the show had ever been up to that point. With Rita being murdered in the bathtub, and little Harrison covered in her blood, the visual was as painful for the audience as it was for Dexter. A shocking secret comes to light thanks to Debra, as Rita is troubled by the problems in her marriage to Dexter. Elsewhere, Dexter and Arthur continue their ceaseless confrontation in consistent attempts to one-up the other person.