Much to both Dexter’s and the audience’s frustration, this line ultimately made it into the episode.
Spoiler Warning: This article contains major spoilers for Dexter: Resurrection Episode 9, “Touched by an Angel.”
Since its debut in 2006, Dexter has delivered countless unforgettable quotes that have burned their way into pop culture. From James Doakes’ iconic “Surprise, motherf***er!” to Arthur Mitchell’s chilling lines as the Trinity Killer, certain moments have stayed alive in fan discussions nearly two decades later.
But while some quotes instantly become fan favorites, others are far more complicated — not only for viewers, but also for the actors asked to deliver them. That was the case for David Zayas (Angel Batista) in Episode 9 of Dexter: Resurrection, when he was faced with Batista’s shocking final words.
According to Zayas, he almost refused to say them.
The Batista Line That Almost Didn’t Happen
In the heartbreaking final scene of Episode 9, Dexter shares one last moment with Batista and confesses that he was not directly responsible for the deaths of both María LaGuerta and James Doakes. It’s an honest admission — one that Dexter seems to hope will finally bring him closure, maybe even forgiveness.
But instead of offering comfort, Batista delivers a devastating blow. His final words, as he dies in front of Dexter, are:
“Dexter Morgan, f*ck you.”
For longtime fans, the line was soul-crushing. Batista has always been portrayed as loyal, compassionate, and almost entirely free of cynicism. To hear such a venomous farewell from a character defined by kindness made the moment even more tragic.
And it turns out, Zayas himself wasn’t sure about it at first.
David Zayas on Why He Initially Resisted Batista’s Final Words
In a post-episode interview with Variety, Zayas revealed that his first reaction to the script was hesitation:
“To be honest, the first time I read the script, I said, ‘I don’t know if I want to say this.’”
But after reflecting on the impact it would have on Dexter’s journey and the overall arc of Dexter: Resurrection, he realized it was essential:
“Then I realized this has to be it. It’s not necessarily just about you,” he admitted. “It’s about progressing the story of the show, and what comes next for Dexter.”
Zayas explained that not every performer is fortunate enough to be given such rich material — a character with real depth they can fully dive into. He said he deeply appreciates that opportunity in many ways. After initially questioning it, he admitted that a part of him began hoping the writers wouldn’t change it, since it turned out to be such a powerful twist to throw into the story.
Why Batista’s Final Words Matter
Batista’s dying line didn’t just shock Dexter — it shattered expectations for the audience. Many fans assumed that Batista, given his history with Dexter and his genuine nature, would show compassion in his last moments. Instead, his rejection forces Dexter (and viewers) to confront a painful truth: some wounds can never heal, and some betrayals can never be forgiven.
It’s a twist that deepens the tragedy of both characters. For Batista, it’s a final act of honesty — one last refusal to give Dexter peace. For Dexter, it’s another emotional scar that may haunt him going into the series finale.
Fans React: Was It the Right Choice?
Angel Batista’s final words have already become one of the most talked-about moments of Dexter: Resurrection. Some viewers were stunned, others heartbroken, and many applauded the writers — and Zayas — for giving the character such a powerful exit.
So we ask you: How did Batista’s dying words land for you? Were they the perfect gut-punch, or would you have preferred a different kind of farewell?
Share your thoughts in the comments — this is one moment every Dexter fan will be debating long after the credits roll.