The actor is completely satisfied with how Angel Batista’s storyline unfolded this season.
Warning: Spoilers ahead for Dexter: Resurrection Season 1, Episode 9 (“Touched by an Ángel”).
In television history, it’s not uncommon for actors to disagree with creative decisions—especially when those choices directly affect the fate of beloved characters. Some push back, some express disappointment, and others accept the story for what it is.
The Dexter universe already has its fair share of examples. Julie Benz, who played Rita, admitted in multiple interviews that she was blindsided and heartbroken when she learned—at the very last moment—that her character would be killed off. And in a much broader pop-culture case, the final season of Game of Thrones famously left several of its actors shocked, disappointed, and openly critical of the way their characters’ journeys ended.
But sometimes, even when an actor knows their character’s death means the end of their job, they embrace the decision as the right artistic choice. That’s exactly the case with David Zayas, who has played Angel Batista for nearly 20 years. In Episode 9 of Dexter: Resurrection, Batista meets a devastating end—one that left fans stunned, grieving, and struggling to accept the loss of such an iconic figure.
Despite the heartbreak, Zayas himself is not only at peace with Batista’s fate—he’s praising the creative team behind it. In a recent interview with Collider, the actor shared his raw reaction, his feelings on set that day, and what he hopes Batista’s legacy will mean to audiences.
David Zayas on Reading Angel’s Final Scene
When Zayas first discovered how Angel’s story would end, his gut reaction was exactly what many fans felt: Oh no. But once the initial shock passed, he viewed it from an artistic perspective. He explained that the character’s arc had come full circle, stretching across decades in a way few shows or actors ever experience.
Rather than wanting a “copout” ending, Zayas felt grateful that the writers committed to such a powerful conclusion. He said the decision made sense for the story, and he appreciated that Batista’s exit would only elevate the impact of the series’ climax.
The Emotional Atmosphere on Set
Filming Batista’s final moments was not easy. Zayas admitted that arriving on set that day carried a heavy emotional weight. After nearly two decades with the character, he had formed deep bonds not only with his fellow cast members but also with the crew—the camera operators, producers, writers, and everyone behind the scenes.
He described the day as tough but necessary. “It’s in my soul,” he reflected, noting that Batista will always remain a part of him. Still, when the cameras rolled, professionalism took over, and he gave everything he had to bring authenticity to the moment. Looking back, Zayas said he couldn’t imagine a better ending for Batista.
Trusting the Writing
When asked about the creative choices in the scene, Zayas credited the writers entirely. The strength of the script, he explained, allowed the actors to trust the material. Even if a particular line gave him pause, he reminded himself to step back and look at the bigger picture.
He recalled briefly discussing the scene with Michael C. Hall before filming, but ultimately, the writing itself carried the weight. “The action dictates the momentum,” he reflected, acknowledging that everything necessary was already on the page.
Batista’s Legacy
For Zayas, Batista was never a “super cop” or a flawless hero. He emphasized that what made the character so real was his humanity—his mistakes, his flaws, and his depth. Batista was deeply committed to truth, justice, and loyalty. He was unapologetic in his way of loving people, and he carried a fierce protectiveness for his friends and colleagues.
This, Zayas explained, is why Batista chose to go to New York alone. He wanted to uncover the truth before anyone else was dragged into danger. That same honesty and determination, however, ultimately led to his downfall.
What Zayas hopes fans carry with them is Batista’s humanity. He wasn’t perfect, but he was honest, loyal, and unafraid to face the truth—qualities that made him one of Dexter’s most beloved characters.
Final Thoughts
David Zayas’s acceptance of Batista’s tragic death is a testament to his deep respect for storytelling. While fans are still reeling from losing Angel Batista, the actor himself is celebrating the chance to bring such a meaningful arc to completion.
By praising Clyde Phillips and Scott Reynolds for their bold creative choices, Zayas shows that sometimes the most heartbreaking endings are also the most powerful. Batista’s death may have devastated the fandom, but his legacy—as both a flawed man and a devoted protector—will live on in Dexter history.
Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images