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A Spartacus sequel series is happening at Starz (Here’s everything we know so far)

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A Spartacus sequel series is happening at Starz (Here’s everything we know so far)

As a hardcore fan of the original Spartacus series, I’ve been following the developments around the upcoming sequel, Spartacus: House of Ashur, with bated breath. Having witnessed the epic tale of Spartacus (Andy Whitfield) and his rebellion against Rome, I was devastated when the show ended with his tragic death in Spartacus: War of the Damned.

Starz has announced an impressive lineup of new actors for the upcoming “Spartacus: House of Ashur” series. Here’s a glimpse into the next installment of this popular franchise!

Introduced in 2010, the series “Spartacus: Blood and Sand” by Straz brought to life the story of a slave, portrayed by Andy Whitfield, who was transformed into a gladiator under the watch of Roman Batiatus, played by John Hannah. Over time, this slave incites a rebellion among the slaves, setting the stage for a major uprising against Rome. The show gained immense popularity due to its captivating visuals and steamy scenes featuring an ensemble cast including Manu Bennett, Lucy Lawless, and Katrina Law, among others.

Regrettably, Whitfield became ill while working on the prequel miniseries, “Gods of the Arena,” intending to provide him time for recovery. Unfortunately, Whitfield’s health was worse than he had led people to believe, and he passed away in 2011. Liam McIntyre stepped in to replace him for the second series, titled “Vengeance.” Despite its success, the producers announced that the third season, named “War of the Damned,” would be the final one. In keeping with history, Spartacus met his end alongside his rebellion.

That seems to be the end of it, but Starz is ready to make a sequel series with an intriguing idea!

What is Spartacus: House of Ashur about?

In 2023, Steven S. DeKnight, the show’s creator, successfully pitched his new series directly to networks. The intriguing title hints at the storyline revolving around Ashur (Nick E. Tarabay), a once formidable gladiator whose career was cut short due to a leg injury. To make ends meet, he finds himself in the service of Batiatus. Known for his sly tactics and ingratiating behavior towards those in power, Ashur’s sharp intellect is his most potent weapon, even as he continues to surprise with his surprising skillset.

In the thrilling finale of “Vengeance,” it appeared that Ashur met his end. However, much like a tenacious cockroach, the new series envisions him defying the odds and starting anew. Determined to regain his standing, I, Ashur, will encounter obstacles from my own enslaved people as well as the Romans, who are struggling to rebuild their empire in the aftermath of Spartacus’ rebellion.

Spartacus: House of Ashur is a history-bending, erotic, thrilling, rollercoaster experience that builds on everything that made the original series a colossal hit. The series poses the question: What if Ashur (Nick Tarabay is set to reprise the role) hadn’t died on Mount Vesuvius at the end of Spartacus: Vengeance? And what if he had been gifted the gladiator school once owned by Batiatus in return for aiding the Romans in killing Spartacus and putting an end to the slave rebellion?

As someone who has been a devoted fan of the show since its inception, I find the idea of Ashur taking the lead role absolutely captivating. This character was always a love-to-hate figure for me, and I’m excited to see him step into the limelight. Plus, considering his backstory and the post-Spartacus era, it has the potential to add an intriguing layer of complexity and grit that could even surpass the wild mix of action and drama we’ve come to expect from shows like “Game of Thrones”. And let me tell you, if done right, this could be a game changer!

Who stars in Spartacus: House of Ashur? 

It’s clear that Taraby returns to the series as Ashur, according to TV Line. An impressive ensemble cast has been added, including Angus McTavish from “Outlander” who will portray Korris. Previously a gladiator himself and now freed from the arena, Korris becomes Ashur’s doctor, overseeing the training of gladiators in Ashur’s ludu.

Also in the announced cast:

  • Tnika Davis as “Achillia, a female gladiator driven to surpass her male counterparts.”
  • Jamaica Vaughan as Hilara, “a young, elevated house slave, deeply in love with Ashur
  • Ivana Baquero as Messia, “a house slave in love with Hilara.”
  • Jordi Webber as Tarchon, “a brash and headstrong gladiator.”
  • Claudia Black as Cossutia, “a politician determined to keep Ashur in his place, who’s constantly plotting his downfall.”
  • India Shaw-Smith as Viridia, Cossutia’s daughter
  • Leigh Gill as Satyrus, “the leader of the Brothers Ferox, gladiators from a rival Ludus.”

Known for her memorable performances in science fiction series such as “Farscape” and “Stargate SG-1,” Black is an excellent addition to the new cast. She follows in the footsteps of Lawless on the original show. The production team may bring on more actors as filming begins.

When does Spartacus: House of Ashur premiere?

The production of the show is newly underway, so it’s safe to assume that its release date will not be before the year 2025. Besides the actual filming process, there’s also the crucial post-production stage involving the series’ distinct visual effects and aesthetic.

In the upcoming sequel, fans can look forward to re-entering the violent and untamed realm of Spartacus, as it brings chaos and carnage back to ancient Rome once again.

Spartacus Seasons 1-3 streaming on Starz.

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2024-07-15 16:28

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