Corona | Coming Attractions

Starz has asked for a six-part prequel series to serve as an interim show for Spartacus: Blood and Sand.

While Blood and Sand's main actor, Andy Whitfield, is being treated for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, the cable channel has come up with a way that allows Whitfield to recuperate while also keeping the cast and crew employed.

This prequel series will focus on telling what happened before Whitfield's Spartacus came to be a gladiator for the Hourse of Batiatus. Blood and Sand's Lucy Lawless and John Hannah are toplining the as-yet untitled show while appearances from other supporting members will also take place. New characters will also be introduced including the gladiators that fought before Spartacus was bought by Lucretia and Batiatus.

Filming will begin this summer in New Zealand and then the episodes will begin airing next January on Starz.