The Australian film and TV actor Liam McIntyre has officially been chosen to replace Andy Whitfield in the title role of Spartacus in Starz’ second season of the thrilling series. Whitfield, many may recall, stepped down from the role due to health issues. Production is scheduled to begin in New Zealand by Spring 2011.
Chris Albrecht, the President and CEO of Starz, says in the press release:
“Since no one can really replace Andy, we realized that we should instead find an actor who can truly lead ‘Spartacus’ forward,” Albrecht notes. “It was important to us to have Andy endorse the idea of recasting this part, which he did in the same heroic manner that he’s dealt with his whole ordeal. And that, coupled with our fortune in finding a young actor with the gladiator credentials and the acting ability of Liam, makes it easier for us to keep this hit franchise going.”
American audiences may recognize McIntyre from the HBO mini-series “The Pacific.” He appeared in the episode “Iwo Jima.” In order to be chosen as Spartacus, he endured a “grueling and rigorous audition process.” The role is physically demanding, which comes as no surprise to viewers of the first season Spartacus: Blood and Sand. Gladiators must fight each other in the arena for sport, and in the Batiatus ludus they war with each other for practice and for honor. Each warrior must be muscular, toned, and physically imposing.
When the show first debuted in January 2010, it became the most watched premiere in Starz’ history. It really resembled nothing that had ever been shown on television before. It was also one of the most talked-about and best-loved shows of the year.
If the first season is any indication, Season 2 should include even more over-the-top battles, erotic love scenes, plenty of eye candy, political intrigues, and an engaging storyline, which will follow Spartacus and his fellow gladiators as they launch a slave rebellion against Roman society. My only complaint with “Blood and Sand” is that it was only a short 12 episodes long, and production hasn’t even begun on the next full season.
Fortunately for me and anyone else eagerly awaiting the second season, Starz is offering “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena,” a six-part prequel series. The focus will be the House of Batiatus five years before the events that take place in “Blood and Sand.” Dustin Clare joins the cast as gladiator Gannicus, and Lucy Lawless and John Hannah reprise their roles as Lucretia and Batiatus, respectively.
“Gods of the Arena” debuts Friday, Jan. 21 (today) at 10 pm ET/PT.