Earlier this year, Spartacus:Blood and Sand star Andy Whitfield was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and began treatment in New Zealand. He wouldn't be available to film the second season of the show, so the producers decided to air a 6 part prequel, in order to maintain the fan base while Whitfield recuperated.This prequel would focus on the the characters portrayed by Lucy Lawless and John Hannah.
In June, we learned Whitfield had completed his treatment and would begin filming the second season in October.
Now we learn his cancer has returned and will require aggressive treatment.The actor will not be able to film the second season.
The network has yet to comment on the fate of the second season. Will the series be canceled?That seems unlikely, as it's their highest rated series.In fact, until Camelot airs in the Spring, it is currently their only series.
Will they cancel the show?Again, seems unlikely as it's their only series and it's ratings are very high.
Will they recast the role? This seems to be a likely scenario. The entire series is based around the character and the show could not go on without him. It isn't plausible to wait for the actor to complete this new round of treatment, as they wouldn't be able to hold on to the cast and crew, nor is there any guarantee the actor won't need more treatment.
This was one of my favorite shows of the year, and I hope they are able to find a suitable way to move forward with it.
I hope the actor successfully completes his treatment. I am also sad to see him leave the series, as I think he makes the series.
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