Andy Whitfield won't return for Spartacus Season 2 due to cancer complications
"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. It seems that it is time for myself and my family to embark on another extraordinary journey. Thank you sincerely for the support so far," said Whitfield.
"Our hearts and prayers are with Andy and his family during this difficult time," said Starz President and CEO Chris Albrecht. " Andy is not only an incredible actor whose portrayal of Spartacus made an indelible impression on Starz audiences, he is also an amazing human being whose courage, strength, and grace in the face of adversity have inspired all of us."
No decisions have yet been made about the future of the series. "Right now, we just want to extend our concern and support to Andy and his family," said Carmi Zlotnik, Managing Director, Starz Media. "We will address our programming plans at some later date."
Starz still plans to air the prequel to Spartacus: Blood and Sand in January 2011. Entitled Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, it focuses on the House of Batiatus before Spartacus arrives in Capua and stars returning cast members John Hannah, Lucy Lawless, Peter Mensah and Manu Bennett, along with newcomer Dustin Clare.
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XxNickTheFilmCriticXx
@bawnian-dexeus -- Yeah......
9 months agoby @XxNickTheFilmCriticXxFlag
Bawnian©-Dexeus
So much for remission :/
9 months agoby @bawnian-dexeusFlag
Emmytt
that sucks
2 years agoby @emmyttFlag
SpecialK
I am really upset by this news Spartacus/Andy was/is my dream lover. When he slept with whats her name???? in the mask that was so hot and cool I watch over and over and replaced her with me. So erotica the entire series. It took me to a time period where they definitely experienced sexual freedom. I will miss Andy, however, I hope Starz recast Vin Disel , the Rock or somebody strong and handsome.
2 years agoby @specialkFlag
Courtney O.
That is so sad!
2 years agoby @chickflickFlag
TheMime
One of The Mimes friends, when he saw this movie, he said "I bet they duct-taped their genitals so that they won't get too much of a hard on and to avoid penetration." That cracked The Mime up so bad that he had to pause the show.
2 years agoby @themimeFlag
RojoDiablo
Horrible loss for a very solid show indeed. I look forward to the prequel though and hope Andy can return at some point! I'd rather they wait for his return than recast the role.
2 years agoby @rojodiabloFlag
Dan
This sucks. I was just getting into the show and decided I liked it, and stupid cancer ruins it. Better he call it quits and live though, that's more important then doing a tv show. Hope his cancer goes into remission.
2 years agoby @dan1Flag
ed_wood
Damn.
2 years agoby @ed-woodFlag
ecco0201
worst news ever, this is my favorite show and Andy was unreal in it. Stupid F-ing cancer. Still hope they continue the series and find another Spartacus, it's wont be the same but this show is to good to stop
2 years agoby @ecco0201Flag