Hannah McKay
Character Overview
Full Name: Hannah McKay
Portrayed by: Yvonne Strahovski
Occupation: Florist, Former Serial Killer Accomplice
First Appearance: Season 7, Episode 3 ("Buck the System")
Last Appearance: Dexter: New Blood (Mentioned, Fate Unclear)
Character Background
Hannah McKay is introduced in Season 7 as a former accomplice to a serial killer with a dark past. She quickly becomes Dexter Morgan's lover, representing his first true romantic connection with someone who understands his dark urges. Unlike Rita or Lumen, Hannah is not a victim—she is a killer herself, capable of using poison to eliminate those who threaten her.
Their passionate yet dangerous relationship plays a major role in the final two seasons, culminating in her taking Dexter's son, Harrison, to Argentina after his disappearance.
Key Story Arcs & Role in Dexter
Her Dark Past & Introduction in Season 7
- Hannah was once involved with Wayne Randall, a serial killer who went on a murder spree when they were teenagers.
- Though she claimed to be a coerced accomplice, Dexter discovers she personally killed at least one person herself.
- She later becomes a successful florist but is suspected of using poison to kill those who threaten her.
Relationship with Dexter
- Unlike his past relationships, Dexter does not want to kill Hannah—he is drawn to her instead.
- They begin a passionate relationship, with Hannah accepting Dexter's dark side and even supporting it.
- However, she clashes with Debra Morgan, who sees her as a dangerous murderer.
Debra's Vendetta & Hannah's Arrest
- Debra, determined to bring Hannah to justice, arrests her after finding evidence of her poisoning an old woman.
- Hannah is sent to prison, but she escapes and returns to Miami.
Reuniting with Dexter in Season 8
- After escaping, Hannah goes into hiding but reunites with Dexter, rekindling their relationship.
- She helps him realize that he wants to leave his life behind and proposes escaping together to Argentina.
- However, she is being hunted by U.S. Marshal Clayton, making their escape difficult.
Taking Harrison to Argentina (Finale)
- In the series finale, Dexter, believing he is a danger to those he loves, fakes his death in a hurricane.
- Hannah successfully takes Harrison to Argentina, where she plans to raise him.
- In Dexter: New Blood, it is revealed that she died of cancer, leaving Harrison orphaned.
Personality & Traits
Seductive & Manipulative – Hannah is charming and cunning, using her looks and intelligence to get what she wants.
Cold & Calculating – Unlike Dexter, who kills by a code, she kills for convenience (e.g., poisoning people who threaten her).
Deeply Loyal to Dexter – Despite her flaws, Hannah is one of the few people who truly accepts Dexter for who he is.
Survivor Mentality – She adapts quickly to danger, escaping prison and evading the law.