When Spartacus debuted in 2010, it redefined historical action television. Known for its visceral fight choreography, graphic storytelling, and bold reinterpretation of Roman legend, the series also launched or transformed the careers of many of its cast. Over a decade later, here’s a look at what happened to the key actors from the Spartacus franchise after the cameras stopped rolling.
Andy Whitfield (Spartacus, Season 1)
A former engineer turned actor, Whitfield brought both physicality and emotional depth to the title role in Blood and Sand. Tragically, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma during the show’s rise. Despite initial recovery, the cancer returned, and he passed away in 2011 at age 39. His legacy lives on not only through the series but in the heartfelt documentary Be Here Now, chronicling his final battle.
Liam McIntyre (Spartacus, Seasons 2–3)
Taking over the role in Vengeance and War of the Damned, McIntyre carried the weight of expectation with dignity. Post-Spartacus, he appeared in The Flash as Weather Wizard and voiced characters in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and other video games. He remains active in genre television and fan events.
Lucy Lawless (Lucretia)
Already a cult icon from Xena: Warrior Princess, Lawless added complexity and venom to Lucretia. Since Spartacus, she’s continued to thrive, appearing in Salem, Ash vs Evil Dead, and voicing roles in animation. She remains one of New Zealand’s most recognisable performers and an advocate for climate action.
John Hannah (Batiatus)
Hannah was no stranger to television or film when he played the conniving lanista. After Spartacus, he returned to British television with roles in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Trust Me, and Transplant. He’s also appeared on stage and continues to balance film and TV work.
Manu Bennett (Crixus)
A standout figure in the arena and beyond, Bennett’s physicality and internal torment as Crixus made him a fan favourite. He later portrayed Slade Wilson (Deathstroke) in Arrow and the orc Azog in The Hobbit trilogy. Bennett has also worked on several independent productions and maintains a strong presence at conventions.
Peter Mensah (Oenomaus/Doctore)
Mensah’s performance as the stoic gladiator trainer gave the show much of its gravitas. He’s since appeared in Sleepy Hollow, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and Midnight, Texas. With a commanding screen presence and distinct voice, he remains a regular in science fiction and fantasy projects.
Viva Bianca (Ilithyia)
Bianca’s portrayal of the manipulative Ilithyia brought sharp tension to the show’s political intrigue. After Spartacus, she appeared in films such as Scorned and A Prince for Christmas. Though less visible in recent years, she has turned to directing and independent cinema.
Craig Parker (Glaber)
Parker, who had previously played Haldir in The Lord of the Rings, portrayed the ambitious Roman Praetor in Spartacus. Post-series, he featured in Reign and Charmed, continuing to play villains with elegance and menace.
Dustin Clare (Gannicus)
First introduced in Gods of the Arena, Clare returned in later seasons as the free-spirited champion. He has since starred in Wolf Creek, Tidelands, and Glitch. Clare remains active in Australian film and TV, balancing leading roles with behind-the-camera work.
Katrina Law (Mira)
Mira’s emotional arc gave Spartacus one of its quieter but more poignant threads. Law went on to star in Arrow as Nyssa al Ghul and later joined Hawaii Five-0 and NCIS. Her range and martial arts background have made her a regular in action roles.
Nick Tarabay (Ashur)
The treacherous former slave Ashur was brought to life with gleeful venom by Tarabay. He has since appeared in Person of Interest, Arrow, The Expanse, and voiced roles in Halo and other games. A fixture of fan-favourite series, Tarabay continues to build on his reputation for playing layered villains.
Ellen Hollman (Saxa)
Joining in later seasons, Hollman portrayed the fierce Germanic warrior Saxa. She has stayed in the action lane, appearing in Into the Badlands and The Matrix Resurrections. Off-screen, she’s also involved in martial arts and stunt training.
Legacy of the Cast
The Spartacus cast brought life to a brutal, myth-soaked corner of Roman history. While some like Lawless and McIntyre moved deeper into genre TV, others such as Mensah and Tarabay became go-to performers for complex supporting roles. Whitfield’s brief but impactful time in the spotlight continues to echo across the fanbase, serving as both a testament to his talent and a reminder of how fragile life is even at the height of success.
The show may have ended in 2013, but the careers and contributions of its ensemble cast endure.
