David Zayas

A former New York City police officer-turned-actor, David Zayas developed into a fine character performer in films, on television and on stage. While usually typecast as one form of police officer or another, Zayas did spread his wings on occasion, usually on stage and in low-budget features. He did over 30 plays off-Broadway for a local theater group, while at the same time, building his resume by guest starring on prominent television shows. Eventually, he landed his first regular role on the ill-fated procedural "The Beat" (UPN, 1999-2000), then made viewers take notice with his portrayal of a cold, calculating gang leader in the acclaimed prison series "Oz" (HBO, 1997-2003). But it was his turn as a good-hearted, but ultimately too-trusting homicide detective on "Dexter" (Showtime, 2006-13) that truly propelled his career, turning Zayas from typecast beat cop to strong supporting player.