Starz plans ‘Spartacus’ revival, with Steven S DeKnight to return

Spartacus: Blood And Sand

US network Starz is in development on a revival of its historical drama franchise Spartacus, with Steven S DeKnight to return as showrunner and executive producer.

Spartacus: Blood And Sand debuted on Starz in 2010 and was followed by a prequel series Spartacus: Gods Of The Arena in 2011 and two additional series Spartacus: Vengeance in 2012 and Spartacus: War Of The Damned in 2013.

The shows chiefly followed the story of the titular gladiator, a historical figure, who led a slave uprising against the Roman Republic around 73BC.

Produced by Lionsgate Television, this new follow-up will “explore uncharted territory and new journeys” of the original series’ characters, though casting news – and which characters will be returning – have yet to be announced.

According to Starz, in the aftermath of the defeat of Spartacus and his rebel army, the drama will depict a new tale of treachery, deceit, and blood unfolding beneath the foreboding shadow of Rome.

“It has been over a decade since Spartacus delighted international audiences and we are thrilled to reimagine and expand this gripping, action-packed drama for our viewers today,” said Kathryn Busby, president of original programming at Starz.

DeKnight said it was an “incredible honor” to be asked to return to the world of Spartacus and that, alongside Starz and Lionsgate: “we are crafting something truly unique and unusual for the next chapter in this epic story.”

Plans for a Spartacus revival come shortly after Starz greenlit a spin-off prequel to its soon-to-conclude historical drama title Outlander, with Outlander: Blood Of My Blood in the works at the network.