Andy Whitfield's Cancer Returns Forcing His Withdrawal From "Spartacus"

It was announced yesterday that 36-year-old Aussie actor Andy Whitfield, best known around here as Spartacus and the star of Spartacus: Blood and Sand, was being forced to step down from the show due to a recurrence of his non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Said Whitfield:

"It's with a deep sense of disappointment that I must step aside from such an exceptional project as Spartacus and all the wonderful people involved," Whitfield, 36, said in a statement. "It seems that it is time for myself and my family to embark on another extraordinary journey."

The second season of the show had already been delayed when the cancer first struck Whitfield, but after a successful treatment, Whitfield had again begun training to resume playing the part. 

Starz issued a statement, saying:

"Our hearts and prayers are with Andy and his family during this difficult time," said Starz President and CEO Chris Albrecht. "Andy is not only an incredible actor whose portrayal of Spartacus made an indelible impression on Starz audiences, he is also an amazing human being whose courage, strength and grace in the face of adversity have inspired all of us."

Thus far Starz has said nothing about future plans for the show, saying only “Right now, we just want to extend our concern and support to Andy and his family,” said Carmi Zlotnik, Managing Director, Starz Media. “We will address our programming plans at some later date.”

Starz still plans to air the prequel to Spartacus: Blood and Sand in January 2011.

I originally hadn't intended to post this news since Whitfield is straight, as is his character, but so many readers wrote in about the sad news, I decided it deserved coverage here.

Our thoughts are with Andy, his family and friends.