Miguel Prado
Character Overview
Full Name: Miguel Prado
Portrayed by: Jimmy Smits
Occupation: Assistant District Attorney (ADA) of Miami
Family:
- Ramón Prado (Brother)
- Oscar Prado (Brother, deceased)
- Sylvia Prado (Wife)
Character Background
Miguel Prado is a charismatic and ambitious Assistant District Attorney (ADA) in Miami who becomes Dexter Morgan's first true "partner" in killing during Dexter Season 3. Initially appearing as a righteous and dedicated prosecutor, Miguel gradually reveals a darker, more manipulative side, leading to a power struggle between him and Dexter.
Unlike previous antagonists, Miguel is not a serial killer when the season begins. However, after forming a close friendship with Dexter, he becomes obsessed with the idea of vigilante justice, ultimately proving himself to be reckless and dangerous.
Key Story Arcs & Role in Dexter
Season 3: From Friendship to Betrayal
Tragic First Encounter
Miguel enters Dexter's life after
Dexter accidentally kills his younger brother, Oscar Prado, during a routine kill.
- Friendship & Vigilante Partnership
Oscar was not Dexter's intended target, but the mistake brings Miguel into his orbit.
Miguel and Dexter develop a close friendship, bonding over their shared disdain for the flaws in the justice system.
- Miguel begins suspecting Dexter has a dark side and encourages his vigilante actions rather than condemning them.
- Eventually, Miguel discovers Dexter's secret life as a killer and convinces him to let him join in.
-
Corruption & Power Struggle
- Unlike Dexter, who follows Harry's Code (only killing confirmed murderers), Miguel begins killing out of personal vendettas and convenience.
- He murders defense attorney Ellen Wolf, a rival who had embarrassed him in court—not because she was a killer, but because she stood in his way.
- This crosses a line for Dexter, who realizes Miguel is uncontrollable and cannot be trusted.
-
Manipulation & Betrayal
- Miguel pretends to be Dexter's loyal friend, but secretly plans to have Dexter killed by a hitman.
- When Dexter learns of the betrayal, he outmaneuvers Miguel and decides he must die.
-
Dexter Kills Miguel
- Dexter captures Miguel and kills him, following Harry's Code by making sure Miguel had crossed a moral line.
- He stages Miguel's death to look like the work of The Skinner (the season's secondary antagonist).
- Miguel's brother, Ramón Prado, vows revenge, but Dexter manipulates events so Ramón is arrested instead.
Personality & Traits
Charismatic & Influential – Well-liked and respected as an ADA, with strong public influence.
Manipulative & Power-Hungry – Uses people to his advantage, including Dexter.
Ruthless & Unstable – Once he embraces killing, he becomes reckless and dangerous.
Charming but Deceptive – Appears friendly but is capable of extreme betrayal.
Emotionally Driven – Acts impulsively when provoked or when his ego is challenged.