I personally have yet to watch the TV series “Spartacus: Blood and Sand” but I have been aware that for the first season the lead was played by Andy Whitfield. The actor, however, had to withdraw from the show, after a successful season run, because he was suffering from cancer and it has come back.

The series has been gaining quite a following. But with the prospects of its lead actor not coming back, Starz, who produced the show, was placed in a difficult situation. Would they proceed with a second season? Would they take in a new actor to play Spartacus? Should they wait for Andy Whitfield’s recovery? Or should they change the course of the show together?

After months of deliberation, they finally decided on hiring a new guy to take on Whitfield’s role. And they have found their new Spartacus in Aussie actor Liam McIntyre. And Whitfield has apparently given his blessing for the recast.

McIntyre auditioned for the role in New Zealand where they are filming the series. He bested two other actors who were eyed for the role.

His list of film and television credits include “The Pacific”, a miniseries for HBO. He is also a familiar face in Australian TV, appearing in shows like “Neighbours” and “Rush”. He just finished an indie film, “Frozen Moments”.

Production for the second season of “Spartacus: Blood and Sand” will begin this spring, and the prequel, “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena” is set to air this coming Friday.