David Zayas Quotes

Powerful David Zayas for Daily Growth

About David Zayas

David Zayas, a versatile artist born on September 13, 1965, in the South Bronx, New York City, is an accomplished actor, director, and writer. His Puerto Rican heritage deeply influenced his artistic journey, infusing his work with a unique blend of urban grit and cultural richness. Zayas' interest in acting was ignited during his teenage years when he joined the Young People's School for Acting (YPSA) in the Bronx. This initial exposure to theater set him on a path that would ultimately lead to a career in the arts. He further honed his craft at Adelphi University, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. His breakthrough role came in 2004 when he joined the cast of the critically acclaimed television series "Dexter," portraying Captain Maria LaGuerta. The character's complexities and challenges resonated with audiences, showcasing Zayas' ability to breathe life into multidimensional characters. In addition to his work on "Dexter," Zayas has also made significant contributions to film and theater. He appeared in the 2014 film "The Wolf of Wall Street" directed by Martin Scorsese, as well as in the Broadway production of "Hamlet" alongside Jude Law. Beyond his on-screen performances, Zayas has also ventured into directing and writing. His directorial debut was the short film "The Wanderer," which won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2013 San Diego Latino Film Festival. David Zayas continues to be a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, using his platform to advocate for representation and diversity. His work serves as a testament to the power of art in shaping narratives and fostering understanding among different cultures.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."

This quote emphasizes the importance of authenticity and self-expression. David Zayas suggests that one should not be afraid to express themselves honestly, as it is the genuine people who will be accepted by others who truly value them, while those who disapprove are unimportant. Essentially, this means standing tall, being true to oneself, and not letting fear of judgment or rejection hold back personal growth and development.


"The key to life is not the absence of conflict, but the understanding that different perspectives and ideologies can coexist peacefully and productively."

This quote by David Zayas suggests that peace and productivity can be achieved even when there are contrasting perspectives or ideologies among individuals. It encourages understanding and tolerance as a means to cope with conflict, rather than avoidance or suppression of diversity. Essentially, it underscores the importance of embracing differences in beliefs, values, and ideas while learning from each other towards a common goal.


"Life is about the choices we make, not the chances that life deals us."

This quote emphasizes personal agency and responsibility in life. It suggests that rather than being determined by external circumstances or luck, our lives are shaped significantly by the decisions we make. Choices, not random events, are what define our paths and character, implying that one's destiny is not preordained but self-determined. This perspective encourages individuals to take charge of their lives and make conscious, intentional choices that align with their values and goals, thereby shaping a life meaningful and fulfilling to them.


"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will."

The quote emphasizes that true strength is rooted in one's unyielding spirit rather than just physical prowess. An 'indomitable will' refers to an unconquerable or unyielding determination, which can help individuals overcome adversity, face challenges, and achieve their goals despite obstacles. This interpretation encourages resilience, perseverance, and the understanding that inner strength plays a crucial role in one's ability to overcome hardships and succeed in life.


"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."

This quote by David Zayas suggests that self-discovery can be achieved through serving others. By focusing on helping, supporting, or uplifting others, one can lose themselves in the process, letting go of personal desires and ego. In this act of selflessness, individuals may discover their true values, passions, and purpose in life. Essentially, the quote encourages that finding oneself is not a solitary journey but one intertwined with helping and caring for others.


I saw the original that Gela Babluani wrote and directed called '13 Tzameti,' and that was very interesting. I believe it was a French film, and I was just intrigued by the awkwardness; the off-beatness of the film really just grasped me.

- David Zayas

Original, Very, Directed, Intrigued

Working on 'Dexter' is like shooting one big movie every year.

- David Zayas

Big, Movie, Like, Big Movie

I love it and it is a blessing to be able to have seventy-five to eighty episodes to develop a character and find your voice. You have a similar through voice, and yet you are making different decisions, and so you act differently and you make different choices, as that is what your character would do.

- David Zayas

Love, Voice, Through, Episodes

People are complicated. People have secrets. It doesn't make them good people or bad people.

- David Zayas

Complicated, Bad, Them, Bad People

Part of an actor's job, in my opinion, is adjust to the characteristics of the director and try to understand to how he tries to work.

- David Zayas

Characteristics, Tries, Adjust

There's not too many things I'm afraid of, but I'm not too brave when it comes to sitting in a chair getting my teeth drilled.

- David Zayas

Chair, Getting, Many, Brave

You just see a good project and want to be involved in it, and that's what 'Dexter' was.

- David Zayas

Want, See, Involved, Dexter

Art has to be reflective of our society.

- David Zayas

Art, Society, Our, Reflective

As an actor, I've always found that my job is not to judge the content in which I've agreed to perform in. What I try to do is just find the truth in every moment that they've written.

- David Zayas

Always, Perform, Which, Agreed

To get into another person's mindset and what they are trying to do with their project is a challenge, and it is what I like.

- David Zayas

Trying, Person, Like, Mindset

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.