Production has been halted on the second season of Starz’s freshman drama Spartacus: Blood and Sand after series star Andy Whitfield was recently diagnosed with cancer.
Whitfield, 38, has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and will begin treatment in New Zealand right away, Entertainment Weekly reported on Tuesday.
Whitfield’s cancer is described as “very treatable” and was detected in the early stages.
“I’m receiving excellent care and am feeling strong, positive and determined with an army of support behind me,” the Welsh-born actor said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Andy,” said Chris Albrecht, President and CEO of Starz. “His health, of course, is our primary concern. He has our complete support during this difficult time.”
The second season of Spartacus was scheduled to begin filming in New Zealand later this year.