Andy Whitfield, star of Starz's drama series Spartacus: Blood and Sand, died Sunday after a long battle with cancer.
The 39-year old Whitfield, who starred in the lead role of Spartacus in 2010, left the show after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Andy Whitfield," Starz president and CEO Chris Albrecht said in a statement. "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."
