"I was over the moon when I got the part," Martinez shared.
We’re three episodes into Dexter: Original Sin, and fan feedback has been overwhelmingly positive—especially for the latest episode, "Miami Vice." The series appears to be perfectly recapturing the vibe of the early seasons of the original Dexter, which has left fans more than satisfied.
Among the standout performances, James Martinez has received universal acclaim for his portrayal of a young Angel Batista. With his uncanny resemblance to the original character and a portrayal that captures Batista’s essence, fans agree that Martinez is the perfect choice for the role.
Recently, Martinez sat down with YouTuber Majeeto for an episode of the podcast Mojito with Majeeto. During the interview, he discussed Dexter: Original Sin, his preparation for the role, and his experience working on the series. Below are some highlights from the conversation, followed by the full interview video.
On Feedback About the Prequel
"I was a little nervous before the show premiered, but I’m really relieved now. Everywhere I look and read, the feedback has been very positive. Fans are really happy with the first episodes, and that’s more than I could have hoped for."
On Preparing to Play Batista
"I actually knew David Zayas personally—we met years ago in New York’s theater scene. That connection was definitely an advantage when preparing for the role.
I’ve been a fan of Dexter since it first aired, so when I got the audition, I knew I had to get to work. I watched a lot of footage, focusing on Angel’s mannerisms, his voice, and who he was as a person. But I also tried to imagine what he’d be like 15 years earlier—when he was younger, less experienced, and just starting out. That was key to shaping the character."
On Being Cast as Batista
"I was over the moon when I got the part. At first, I was just thrilled to be part of such an iconic franchise with a huge fan base. But once it settled in, I realized the responsibility that came with it—it was a mix of excitement and determination."
Easter Eggs
"I can’t reveal anything specific, but there are so many Easter eggs this season. Fans will have fun spotting them and wondering if their interpretations are correct. It’s a little game for the viewers."
Meeting Michael C. Hall
"Meeting Michael C. Hall was surreal. We all had butterflies. Even though I joined a Zoom call from New York while others were in person, hearing his voice and seeing him get into character for narration was amazing. He was so supportive and excited about the show, which gave us confidence in what we were creating."
Advice From David Zayas
"After I got cast, I went to David Zayas right away to share the news and get his blessing. I also wanted advice on portraying a younger version of his character.
David told me something that really stuck: 'Angel doesn’t have a cynical bone in his body.' That was the key for me. It helped me understand Batista’s optimism, his big heart, and his genuine hopefulness.
Whether his decisions are good or bad, they always come from his heart. In Original Sin, we see a younger, single Batista—a bachelor who’s just starting to learn the ropes of being a detective. David’s insight really guided me in honoring the character he created while bringing a fresh perspective to his early years."
James Martinez’s thoughtful approach to playing Angel Batista has clearly resonated with fans, solidifying his place as a vital part of Dexter: Original Sin. Check out the full interview below for more insights from Martinez and his experiences on the show!