A showrunner and a network chief closing the doors on an increasingly popular series because they want to let “the needs of the storytelling supersede any business concerns”? If that is indeed the reason Starz is calling time on Spartacus after its upcoming third season, then hallelujah. It’s an answered prayer for many a fan frustrated by the cash-related flogging of long-dead telly horses, even if it means waving goodbye to the show’s bloody action.
Despite the series steadily growing its audience, going from 0.66 million US viewers for Blood and Sand’s season premiere, to a steady 1.45 million for Vengeance’s finale, the next outing will be its last. The series will bow out after its third season, Spartacus: War of the Damned, due to premiere in January 2013.
Spartacus creator Steven DeKnight promises that War of the Damned will be “one stunningly epic season that will be extremely satisfying for everyone who’s been along for the ride”. DeKnight cited the difficulties following the untimely death of original star Andy Whitfield as a contributing factor in the decision to put the show to bed.
So that’s it then, 10 more hours of Spartacus are due, after which point fans will have to look elsewhere to fill their weekly quota of nudity, blood, and violence. They shouldn’t have to wait too long though; Game of Thrones is back next April.
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