Former 'Spartacus' Star Andy Whitfield Dies of Lymphoma at 39

Andy Whitfield, theformer star of Starz's drama series Spartacus: Blood and Sand,died Sunday of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Sydney, his manager Sam Maydew told the Associated Press. He was 39.our editor recommendsLiam McIntyre to Replace Andy Whitfield on 'Spartacus'Comic-Con 2011: New 'Spartacus' Star Liam McIntyre Makes Debut Appearance (Video)'Spartacus: Vengeance' First Look: Liam McIntyre Ready for Battle (Photos)Related Topics•Obituaries Starz president and CEO Chris Albrecht said he and his network colleagues are "deeply saddened" over the news. PHOTOS: Hollywood's Notable Deaths "We were fortunate to have worked with Andy in Spartacus and came to know that the man who played a champion onscreen was also a champion in his own life," Albrecht said. " 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." STORY: Liam McIntyre to Replace Andy Whitfield on 'Spartacus' Whitfield's wife Vashti in a statement called her husband a "beautiful young warrior" who died on a "sunny Sydney morning" in the "arms of his loving wife." VIDEO: New 'Spartacus' Star Liam McIntyre Makes Debut Appearance Whitfield -- who was born in Wales and lived in Australia -- was a virtual unknown when he was cast as the title hero in Spartacus, a hit original series that made waves with its graphic violence and sexuality. Whitfield was preparing for the second season when he was diagnosed 18 months ago. STORY: Andy Whitfield Not Returning to 'Spartacus' In January, the network announced that another Australian actor, Liam McIntyre, would take over the role. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Related Topics Andy Whitfield Obituaries Starz! Spartacus

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