Andy Whitfield Dies: Wife Thanks Fans as 'Spartacus' Loses Battle With Cancer
Andy Whitfield, the celebrated actor of the hit television series Spartacus: Blood and Sand, died on Sunday of non-Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 39.
A native of Amlwch Wales, who lived in Australia, Whitfield was a relative unknown actor until he landed the role of legendary gladiator Spartacus in the television series, Spartacus: Blood and Sand, presented by Starz Entertainment.
Spartacus, a familiar character to movie fans, in part, due to Kirk Douglas’ memorable portrayal of the gladiator in Stanley Kubrick’s classic 1960 film, would offer Starz a built-in audience for its series Spartacus: Blood and Sand. Perhaps owing to this popularity, the series premier garnered record viewers for the entertainment channel in January of 2010.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Whitfield, who appeared as the iconic hero in the first season would soon step down due to his illness.
According to National Cancer Institute, non-Hodgkin lymphoma is any of a large group of cancers of lymphocytes (white blood cells). Non-Hodgkin lymphomas can occur at any age and are often marked by lymph nodes that are larger than normal.
Whitfield's wife Vashti issued the following statement from Sydney Australia: “On a beautiful sunny Sydney spring morning, surrounded by his family, in the arms of his loving wife, our beautiful young warrior Andy Whitfield lost his 18 month battle with lymphoma cancer. He passed peacefully surrounded by love.
“Thank you to all his fans whose love and support have help carry him to this point. He will be remembered as the inspiring, courageous and gentle man, father and husband he was.”
Chris Albrecht, President and CEO of Starz Entertainment offered this: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Andy Whitfield. We were fortunate to have worked with Andy in Spartacus and came to know that the man who played a champion on-screen was also a champion in his own life.
“Andy was an inspiration to all of us as he faced this very personal battle with courage, strength and grace. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. He will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and fans."
