One of the most effective vigilante-murderers in television history is about to slash his way across screens serviced by Netflix (NFLX -0.62%). The company announced that it has inked a content licensing agreement with CBS (PARA 3.64%) for its Showtime cable channel's Dexter. Under the terms of the deal, Netflix will eventually make all eight seasons of the show available for its subscribers.

Appropriately enough, the first four seasons will be watchable on the company's instant streaming service beginning Halloween this year. Seasons five through eight will be available starting on January 1.

Dexter told the story of the title character, a forensics expert at Miami Metro Police leading a secret life as a serial killer stalking criminals who have escaped justice. It aired from 2006 to earlier this year.

The deal should attract new viewers for the cult show, which had a robust audience throughout its run.  In its most recently reported quarter, Netlix's worldwide subscriber base grew to over 40 million subscribers.

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