The Dark Side of Undercover Work: How Bobby Reyes Finds Redemption

In the gritty world of New York's criminal underworld, the Organized Crime Control Bureau is on a mission to take down the city's most dangerous criminals. The team, led by Det. Elliott Stabler, has seen some tough times, especially in season 5, which has taken a darker turn since moving to Peacock. One of the team's key players, Det. Bobby Reyes, has been through a lot. He joined the team in season 3 and has since grown significantly, all while dealing with his troubled past. Reyes' journey has been anything but easy. He's had to confront the demons from his childhood, including the abuse he suffered at the hands of his foster father. Despite these challenges, Reyes has become one of the bureau's most dedicated detectives, often going undercover to gather crucial information. His ability to blend in and his fearlessness make him an asset to the team. But why is he so good at it? According to Rick Gonzalez, who plays Reyes, the detective's traumatic past has given him a unique perspective. Reyes uses his undercover work as a way to escape his own pain and trauma. It's a coping mechanism that allows him to focus entirely on the mission at hand. The departure of Det. Jet Slootmaekers early in season 5 has left a void in the team, and Reyes feels it deeply. Slootmaekers was more than just a colleague to him; she was a source of comfort and support. Her leaving has added to Reyes' sense of loss, a feeling he's all too familiar with. Gonzalez believes that this loss will push Reyes to work even harder, but it might also force him to confront his own emotions, something he often avoids. Reyes' undercover work is dangerous, but it's also a way for him to channel his pain into something productive. By immersing himself in the criminal underworld, he can temporarily forget his own struggles. This single-minded focus is crucial for undercover work, where the goal is to gather information at any cost. Reyes' ability to lose himself in his role is both a strength and a weakness. It makes him an excellent detective, but it also means he's constantly running from his own problems. Working with seasoned actors like Christopher Meloni and Jason Patric has been a highlight for Gonzalez. Meloni, who plays Stabler, is known for his intense and methodical approach to acting. Gonzalez sees him as a mentor, always eager to learn from his process. Patric, who plays Det. Tim McKenna, brings a new energy to the show. His character's complex past adds another layer of intrigue to the season. Gonzalez is excited about the potential for future conflicts between McKenna and Reyes, hinting at more drama to come.