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Andy Whitfield resumes cancer treatment

Andy Whitfield, will not be returning to Season Two of Spartacus after his doctors advised him to immediately resume cancer treatment for a recurrence of cancer.

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Australian actor Andy Whitfield, will not be returning to Season Two of Spartacus: Blood and Sand after his doctors advised him to immediately resume aggressive treatment for a recurrence of cancer.

Whitfield was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma earlier this year and given the all-clear in June.

“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.”

Season Two was due to air in the US in September 2011. 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, Spartacus: Gods of the Arena in January, which was greenlit as a result of his diagnosis earlier this year. The cast includes Dustin Clare.

Source: Hollywood Reporter

7 Responses

  2. Andy is such an Awesome actor and a real credit to Australia.
    As a fellow Australian i salute you mate and hope you get better real soon.
    The entire nation is behind you.
    Without you there is no ‘Spartacus’ and a replacement actor just would not do.
    Better to end on a temporary high for this fantastic character and series and wait for your healthy return. We love you mate and we’ll wait for you.
    All the Best Andy and thankyou for what you have given us so far.
    See you again soon and Take Care.

  4. I hope they just delay the second season longer, the show wouldn’t be the same with out him.

    They should do another spin off or something in the mean time. Such a shame, the series ended on such a high note, I want more now! Maybe they can use the time to help craft a more even season. Season One was a mix of totally awesome, with some utter crap in there.

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