Sergeant James Doakes, played by Erik King, delivers some of Dexter's most memorable lines. Below are 3 of the best Sergeant James Doakes quotes from Dexter, each with the scene or episode where it appears, plus 4 pieces of trivia about the character.
Best Sergeant James Doakes Quotes
"Surprise, motherf***er!"
— Sergeant James Doakes, Season 2, Episode 8 - Morning Comes (iconic confrontation with Dexter)
"I've been watching you for two years. You are not normal."
— Sergeant James Doakes, Season 1 - to Dexter
"I know what you are, Morgan. And I'm going to prove it."
— Sergeant James Doakes, Season 2 - various
Sergeant James Doakes Trivia & Fun Facts
- Erik King's delivery of 'Surprise, motherf***er!' became one of the most quoted lines in the show's entire run and a widespread internet meme.
- Doakes was killed off at the end of Season 2, a decision that showrunner Clyde Phillips has since said he regrets.
- Erik King reprised the role in brief flashback sequences in later seasons, suggesting the character's lasting impact on the show's mythology.
- Doakes is one of the few characters in the series who correctly identifies Dexter as dangerous from the very beginning of the show.
Explore More
Read the full Sergeant James Doakes character profile or browse all Dexter quotes.