Andy Whitfield, who appeared in the Starz period drama “Spartacus: Blood and Sand,” has died, the network confirmed.
Whitfield died Sunday of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Sydney, Australia. He was 39.
Whitfield appeared as the gladiator hero in the first season of the cable series but stepped down from the role before the second season because of his illness.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Andy Whitfield,” said Starz President and CEO Chris Albrecht in a statement. “We were fortunate to have worked with Andy in ‘Spartacus’ and came to know that the man who played a champion on-screen was also a champion in his own life. Andy was an inspiration to all of us as he faced this very personal battle with courage, strength and grace. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. He will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and fans.”
