Andy Whitfield (Spartacus) Suffers from Recurrence of Cancer

Let's be honest. We all know how great the show was, right until the moment when those brawny warriors a.k.a gladiators left the ludus to pursue their own lives. The season two of Spartacus was put on hold earlier due to Andy Whitfield's illness. It seems that the cancer he was suffering from did not actually disappear completely. Read on.

http://www.aceshowbiz.com/news/view/00035461.html

Starz cable network which is home to "Spartacus" had produced "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena", a prequel to the series which doesn't involve Whitfield's character. The prequel is still scheduled for January 2011 premiere but the second season of "Blood and Sand" which is due to premiere in September 2011 is still a question mark.

"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 in a press release.

http://spartacus.ausxip.com/season2.html

The following posts are from Steven on his official facebook page regarding casting for Season 2 and whether Starz will replace Andy or cancel (a very hard decision either way)

Asked: NYPD Blue replaced David Caruso after the first season and stayed around along time. Never thought it would work but it did. It can work for Spartacus as well.

Steven S. DeKnight : Slight difference there. Jimmy Smits did not take over the role of John Kelly. He came in as Bobby Simone, a completely different character. But who knows? If we find someone we believe in, we'll give it a try. If not, we had a great season and a prequel.

Asked about Who are some good known actors that would play spartacus almost as good as andy? I can see jason statham play spartacus who would u guys see playing spartacus?

Steven S. DeKnight I suspect someone I have never seen before. Just like Andy!

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Steven S. DeKnight I can't get into the details, but it boils down to recast or cancel. Will explain further when I am able. It's a very difficult choice, but one that needs to be made.
Wednesday at 9:52am · Like

What a shame. I hope Whitfield recovers soon, not for the show's sake but for his family, friends and himself.

Poor guy, hope all ends well for him.

Again? wow that sucks.