He also discussed why more fans tended to root for Dexter over Batista.
David Zayas has embodied Angel Batista for nearly two decades, appearing on and off across 10 seasons of Dexter. Now, with Dexter: Resurrection, he returned to the role one more time, delivering an emotional, powerful arc that exceeded all expectations.
In this latest chapter, Batista was more determined than ever to bring justice and uncover the truth about Dexter Morgan. But his unwavering pursuit of justice, his refusal to back down even in the face of danger, ultimately became his downfall.
Fans have shown Zayas enormous love on social media, especially since Batista’s line “La Pasión” became a viral meme. Despite Dexter being the show’s main draw, Zayas has carved out his own special place in the hearts of viewers.
In a recent interview with Darek Thomas of Monday Morning Critic, recorded just before the Resurrection finale, Zayas opened up about Batista’s journey, the betrayal he felt, and how his own past as a real-life New York City police officer helped shape his performance.
(Editor’s note: Portions of the interview have been edited for flow and clarity.)
On Why Viewers Root for Dexter
Zayas acknowledged that while Batista was lovable and charming, most fans inevitably sided with Dexter:
“That’s the whole thing about Dexter—the audience is in his head. They know what he’s about to do, while the other characters don’t. That closeness makes viewers empathize with him, even though he’s a serial killer. It’s not black and white, and that’s what I love about the writing. Everything is gray, and those shades of gray are what bring the audience closer to Dexter.”
On Batista Feeling Betrayed
When asked if Angel felt betrayed after discovering Dexter’s true nature, Zayas reflected on the character’s deep friendship:
“Angel loved him as a friend. They worked together for 30 years. He was at Dexter’s wedding, and Dexter was at his. So of course there’s guilt in not realizing who Dexter really was. When he finally saw the truth at the end of New Blood, it was like the puzzle pieces fell into place all at once.”
On the Intense Car Scene in Episode 7
Zayas highlighted the tension of the fan-favorite car scene between Batista and Dexter:
“The cards are on the table in that scene. Batista knows the danger, but he’s past the point of turning back. He understands this won’t end well for him, but his quest for justice—being the voice for victims who can’t speak anymore—drives him forward. He knows Dexter is responsible.”
On Fear and Integrity
Did Batista fear Dexter? Absolutely, Zayas admitted:
“It’s only logical to be fearful. But that’s what I love about Angel—despite the fear, he stays true to his mission. That integrity has been with him since Season 1. To see him hold onto it, even in the face of death, was very compelling to play.”
On Batista Being “Unhinged”
Some fans wondered if Batista’s relentless pursuit made him seem unstable. Zayas disagreed:
“Unhinged? No. I think he was more focused than ever. The detectives had logical reasons not to believe him, but Batista wasn’t crazy—he was simply operating without authority, going rogue. He was clear, not unhinged.”
How 15 Years as a Real NYPD Officer Shaped Zayas’ Acting
One of the most fascinating insights came when Zayas spoke about his real-life background as a New York City police officer for 15 years before becoming an actor. That experience, he says, deeply influenced how he played cops on screen:
“Being a police officer trains you to read people. You see them at their worst—domestic disputes, crimes, desperate moments—and you learn to study faces, voices, and emotions. That skill translated directly into acting. When I’m in a scene, I’m constantly observing, just like I did as a cop.”
“The police jargon comes naturally, but beyond that, every cop is different. I played Batista differently than any other officer I’ve portrayed. Because just like in real life, nothing is black and white—it’s all gray.”
This insight adds a unique authenticity to Zayas’ performances. His years of experience dealing with high-pressure, emotionally charged situations gave him a well of realism to draw from—one of the reasons Batista always felt so genuine on screen.
Looking Back on His Unexpected Return
Zayas admitted that coming back for Dexter: Resurrection was a pleasant surprise:
“I thought it was over in 2013. Then New Blood happened. And when they called me again for Resurrection and explained the storyline, I knew this was going to be one of the best seasons of the franchise.”
Watch the full interview with David Zayas below: