Spartacus: Blood and sand Actor died today

Spartacus: Blood and Sand

Spartacus Blood and Sand proved is a 13 part epic that proved an unprecedented success for Starz. The series was renown for its raunchy scenes and gory fight scenes but the presence of star Andy Whitfield marked the series out as something special. Full article..

Starz epic 'Spartacus, Blood and Sand' proved and unprecedented success

Andy Whitfield, best known for his starring role in the 13 part epic Spartacus: Blood and Sand died yesterday. Whitfield was only 39 years old.

The actor, was diagnosed with stage 1 of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in March 2010, but was declared cancer-free two months later after beginning treatment immediately in New Zealand. Whitfield was a virtual unknown when he was cast as the legendary Thracian slave in Spartacus, a role made famous by Kirk Douglas in the 1960 Stanley Kubrick film. The series proved a break-out hit for the Starz network and made waves with its graphic violence and sexuality.

Whitfield was preparing to shoot the second when he was diagnosed with cancer. While waiting for Whitfield's treatment and expected recovery, the network produced a six-part prequel, Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, that aired earlier this year with only a brief voice-over from the actor.

McIntyre said at the time: 'Andy’s such a wonderful actor. I don’t want to follow that guy, and everybody hurts that he’s had to give up the role, myself included.'

At the same time, Whitfield released his own statement acknowledging the decision: 'It's with a deep sense of disappointment that I must step aside from such an exceptional project as Spartacus and all the wonderful people involved,' he said. 'It seems that it is time for myself and my family to embark on another extraordinary journey.'

'He will be remembered as the inspiring, courageous and gentle man, father and husband he was.'

- Vashti Whitfield, Andy's wife