July 2010 Archives   31 July 2010 Spartacus Comic Con Panel Photos by Janna Janna Longworth has sent me some gorgeous photos from the Spartacus Panel. You can access the main gallery here or Andy | Lucy | John | Viva | Pull Panel | Steven     31 July 2010 Lesley-Ann At Sparty Boot Camp With... Lesley-Ann's last day at the Sparty Boot Camp produced this photo which would make all Crixus and Naevia fans very happy. Manu Bennett looking very unlike the Manu we've been used to seeing! Click here for the larger image You can also see (if you haven't already caught up with the boot camp pics): * Peter and his protein * LAB looking very gladiatrix like by taking on a stuntie * Naevia forgives the Syrian Snake - LAB with Nick Tarabay * Barca is back! (Antonio is looking fantastic) Subscribe to Lesley-Ann's Tweets at http://twitter.com/lesleyannbrandt     31 July 2010 Starz At TCA Panel The Futon Critic has a full list of shows / panels at the beginning of the TCA Summer Press Tour, the bi-annual event in which the various networks present their upcoming plans to the press. What's interesting for Spartacus fans is the following on 7 August - since the prequel filming is underway most of the actors won't be there (you would assume since they are in NZ filming BUT you never). SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 (Cable, Day 2) 8:30 AM Fuse 9:45 AM Starz 11:30 AM pm BBC America 12:45 PM Working Lunch/National Geographic Channel/WILD 3:00 PM pm HBO Read more     30 July 2010 Ausiello Interviews Spartacus Cast The much anticipated Ausiello / EW interview with the Spartacus cast: Lucy, John, Viva and Andy is now available to view in two clips on the EW site You've seen the shocking assault. Now watch the risqué two-part interview that led up to it. [Warning: The following video contains strong language, sexual situations, and actual merkins. Click here to view interview     30 July 2010 Andy Footage From Spartacus Comic Con Panel This time all of the camera is on Andy for most, if not all, of the panel discussion Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5zBnlU0JAI Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xdm4-6Wgzo&feature=related Part 3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLmjZeYPOt0&feature=related Part 4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzpUP9rJONA&feature=related Part 5 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mWLghW5aMA&feature=related Part 6 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTcMX1-3obI&feature=related Part 7 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHdYacUio9M&feature=related     30 July 2010 Spartacus Sold To More Than 50 Territories The Wall Street Journal and Reporter Amy Chozick highlights some of the most expensive TV shows produced, including Starz' "Pillars of the Earth and HBO's "Boardwalk Empire."Starz, meanwhile, has sold the first season of "Spartacus" to more than 50 territories. While some of these period dramas mix racy cable standards with high-toned performances and history lessons—HBO's "John Adams" with Paul Giamatti and Laura Linney comes to mind—"Spartacus" is more in the bread-and-circuses genre, with lots of blood, music-video-like fight scenes and other flourishes, requiring 4,000 visual effects in the first 13 episodes. In between warding off attacks, rippled shirtless warriors take time to relax with harems of half-naked women. "We aren't taking ourselves too seriously," says Stephan Shelanski, executive vice president of programming at Starz. A computer-generated Roman colosseum required about 175 extras made to look like they filled a 9,000-seat stadium. The expense—each episode cost under $5 million—was kept in check partly because of a favorable exchange rate in the New Zealand location, producers say. Read Full Article Reported by Barbara Davies     30 July 2010 Spartacus Cast Photos from From Dusk Til Con Party More photos from the Starz sponsored Spartacus party From Dusk Til Con which was held on 23 July 2010 at the San Diego Comic Con. The 944 site has a huge gallery of pics from the event. Check them out here Reported by Janna     29 July 2010 Having Fun with Lesley-Ann in New Zealand Cute Photo! It's been a tough week for LAB with Sparty boot camp and the cold weather back in New Zealand. If you haven't seen the wonderful pics that LAB tweeted click here and here. Here's another pic that Lesley-Ann sent me which had me on the floor laughing. Such a cute pout! Where's Crixus when you need him. Naevia needs a cuddle! Click here for the larger pic     29 July 2010 Spartacus Press Conference with Lucy, Andy & John 21 July 2010 Photos Lucy, Andy and John attended a Spartacus Press Conference 21/07/2010 at The Four Seasons Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA United States It would appear that Viva was not present as there are no photos of her at the conference.           Click here to view all the images or Andy - 8 Photos | Lucy - 9 Photos | John - 7 Photos     29 July 2010 Katrina Law's Band Soundboard Fiction Now On Itunes! Katrina's band Soundboard Fiction new album is now available on Itunes! Download it from there for 0.99c each track for 15 songs or $9.99 US for all of the album. Click here to go to Itunes Preview You can also purchase the tracks from CDBaby (as announced yesterday)     29 July 2010 Peter Mensah Portrait By Camile O'Briant Check out this amazing photo of Peter Mensah(the thumbnail is just a snippet of it) by Camile O’Briant. Be still my heart <g>   Click here for the full size image Link submitted by Barbara Davies     28 July 2010 AUSXIP Interviews Erin Cummings - Parts 6 and 7 Video Clips (Final) The final two clips of the very extensive AUSXIP Interview with Erin Cummings are now available to view on AUSXIP Video. We would like to take this moment to thank Erin for being so generous with her time. This interview ran for 1 hour 25 minutes and it was such a great insight into who Erin Cummings is as a strong woman in Hollywood. Thank you Erin! AUSXIP Interviews Erin Cummings Part 6 This is part 6 of the very extensive interview Erin Cummings gave to AUSXIP Reporter Lori Boyles. In this section of the interview Erin reveals: - The best and worth thing about being an actress - How do the roles affect Erin personally - Best advice she got from her parents and inviting them to the Spartacus premiere - Why a role on Mad Men was such a dream come true   AUSXIP Interviews Erin Cummings - Part 7 (Final) Here is the final part of the very extensive interview Erin Cummings gave to AUSXIP Reporter Lori Boyles. In this final segment were learn: - Will there be a Bitch Slap 2? - Does Erin want to produce? - What’s Next for Erin Cummings? - Message to the fans - Things you didn’t know about Erin Cummings – Light hearted silly questions. You can also watch Parts 1 - 5 here     28 July 2010 Lucy at Round Table Press Interview at Comic Con The Futon Critic has a Lucy interview from Comic Con at the round table press area. Lucy was interviewed (and it's the same interview as the one that Maureen from the Chicago Tribune had but from a different angle) Part 1   Part 2   News reported by Barbara Davies     28 July 2010 More Lesley-Ann Photos from Sparty Boot Camp Alright more photos from the Sparty boot camp with Lesley-Ann who is morphing into a tough gladiatrix judging from this pic! Go LAB! Bet you her ex-Domina won't be messing with her in Season 2! <g> Click here for the larger photo Naevia forgives the Syrian Snake - LAB with Nick Tarabay Barca is back! (Antonio is looking fantastic) Subscribe to Lesley-Ann's Tweets at http://twitter.com/lesleyannbrandt She promises more Sparty Boot Camp pics!     28 July 2010 Lesley-Ann Tweeting Photos From Boot Camp! Lesley-Ann is at Sparty Boot Camp in New Zealand and she just posted a photo of my favourite gladiator trainer, Doctore (aka Peter Mensah), hard at work taking in his protein! @LesleyAnnBrandt Doctore on the protein! http://yfrog.com/msw91xj Click here to view larger image Subscribe to Lesley-Ann's Tweets at http://twitter.com/lesleyannbrandt She promises more Sparty Boot Camp pics!     28 July 2010 Spartacus Cast Press Interviews from Comic Con The press had a round table interview segments with the actors at this year's comic con. Here are some more interviews with Andy, Viva and John. Andy Whitfield View Part 1 View Part 2     Viva Bianca   View Interview John Hannah View Interview Reported by Barbara Davies. As previously posted you can view Lucy's interview here and Andy Part 1 and 2 (Maureen from Chicago Tribune interviews) You can view the Spartacus Panel in 7 parts here Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for the streaming video and also the chat with Lucy, John, Andy, Viva and Steven.     27 July 2010 Spartacus Gold Label Discount Offer Gold Label sells Official Merchandise (and the only one that does so at the moment). They have posted the following about a Spartacus Discount Offer - check them out. Spartacus Offer Details * Save 20% off your purchase from the Spartacus: Blood and Sand shop (www.goldlabel.com/spartacus), excluding shipping charges, gift wrap charges and applicable sales tax. Coupon code IAM20 must be entered at check out. Promotion starts on July 22, 2010 at 12:00 a.m. (PST) and ends on August 12, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. (PST). All orders must be from the URLs www.goldlabel.com/spartacus or www.cafepress.com/spartacus. Excludes product orders originating from the CafePress marketplace, Gift Certificates, Flip Minos, SIGG bottles, CafePress Groups purchases and bulk orders. Offer cannot be combined with any other coupons or promotions and may change, be modified or cancelled at anytime without notice. (Reported by Barbara Davies)     27 July 2010 Michael Muller Celebrity Portraits From Comic Con Michael Muller’s Comic-Con celebrity portraits for Entertainment Weekly. Entertainment Weekly commissioned Michael to shoot portraits during the big Comic-Con convention, which wrapped up yesterday. Seventy (yes, 70!) of his photographs, taken in a studio that the magazine set up at the Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego, are posted in a gallery at ew.com called “Comic-Con: Three Days of Star Portraits.” EW columnist Michael Ausiello took it on the chin from Lucy Lawless, who costars in Spartacus: Blood and Sand… View Site Reported by Barbara Davies     27 July 2010 HQ Photo of Andy from Comic Con Wow what a great photo of Andy from Comic Con! The photo of Andy was taken of him attending the 'GPhoria strikes back' party of the Comic Con on July 22, 2010. Click here for the larger version Many thanks to Susanne for the link! You can find out about the event on the Postcards from the Edge blog     26 July 2010 The Flick Cast Reviews Spartacus Panel SDCC10: ‘Spartacus: Blood and Sand’ Panel, Andy Whitfield Talks Prequel, Season 2 Details It’s no secret that some of us here at The Flickcast are huge Spartacus: Blood and Sand fans, having written about the Starz show during it’s premiere season, covering Andy Whitfield’s battle with a treatable form of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, as well as Starz’ decision to film a 6- episode prequel to buy some time for Andy to recover. So when Starz announced there would be a SDCC 2010 panel featuring Andy Whitfield and the cast and producers, we knew we’d be there to cover all of the Comic-Con exclusive news and trailers. Read More (Reported by Barbara Davies)     26 July 2010 IGN Interviews Andy Whitfield - He Is Spartacus! SDCC 10: He. Is. SPARTACUS! IGN talks to the brutal gladiator himself, Andy Whitfield, about surviving cancer, killing his friends and heading out of the Ludus for Season 2. US, July 25, 2010 I know a lot of you can't wait for Spartacus Season 2 (aka Spartacus: Vengeance) on Starz, but due to series star Andy Whitfield's unfortunate battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma production had to be delayed. Everyone was concerned about Whitfield and we kept him in our hearts, wishing him all the best in his recovery process. Read More Reported by Barbara Davies     26 July 2010 New Beatriz Artwork - Quintus Lentulus Batiatus! Beatriz has sent in her new artwork and this time is Dominus, the one and only Quintus Lentulus Batiatus. View Artwork You can see more of Beatriz excellent artwork on the AUSXIP Spartacus Artwork Gallery     26 July 2010 Aussie Fans Rejoice! Sparty Coming to Channel 9 in August! Channel 9 has announced that they will be showing Spartacus on their digital channel GO! in August! Some time ago there were rumours that channel 7 had bought the show and were going to show it on their 7Two digital channel. They didn't and channel 9 did! Wahoo! Here's the press release! Spartacus: Blood and Sand, the bold new series about the life and death struggle of the Roman gladiators, premieres in August on GO! with a movie-length episode. With a superb cast of victims and villains, Spartacus: Blood and Sand stars Australian Andy Whitfield (McLeod's Daughters) as Spartacus alongside John Hannah (The Mummy Trilogy, Four Weddings and a Funeral) and Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess) who play cunning Batiatus, Spartacus's owner, and his insatiable wife Lucretia. Producers/film makers Sam Raimi (Spiderman), Josh Donen (The Quick and the Dead) and Robert Tapert (The Grudge) have combined a potent mixture of live action, graphic special effects and brutal battle sequences in a violent and provocative depiction of the rise of Rome's most infamous gladiator. Betrayed by the Roman army he fought for and torn from the home and the woman he loves, Spartacus is forced into the barbaric world of the gladiator arena. Corruption, treachery and carnal pleasures test him, and survival requires that he be more than a man, more than a gladiator - that he becomes Spartacus the legend. Spartacus: Blood and Sand Movie-length premiere Coming to GO! in August Source: GO press release Mumbrella.com     26 July 2010 SpinOff Online Interviews Steven At Comic Con SpinOff Online interviewed Steven at Comic Con. One of Steven's favourite characters is Batiatus: DeKnight went on to say that, even though a writer wasn’t supposed to have favorite creations, he was drawn to Hannah’s Batiatus because “what he says is what I’m thinking all the time.” A lot of his excitement about the six-episode Gods comes from being able to write Batiatus and Lucretia (Lucy Lawless) together again. But even though his focus is on the prequel, which starts shooting next week, he’s still very conscious of the show’s future. “The show will hit major touchstones in history, ending with the slave uprising,” he said. “I’ve always said we’ve got about five to seven [seasons]. … We’ve got a good idea of the first five years. It’s not entirely written, but we know historically, this [will have happened] by the end of season two, this will have happened by the end of season three. We know where we’re headed. Read Full Interview     25 July 2010 Comic Con Lucy Press Video Interview Maureen from the Chicago Tribune has a Lucy interview up on her YouTube video channel. It appears to be a press interview. Nothing new in the interview (other than what was actually said on the panel about Lucretia not being dead, coming back better in Season 2, Lucretia's past being explored in the prequel). Lucy looking fab as usual. Reported by Barbara Davies     25 July 2010 Andy Interviewed by Maureen Ryan from Chicago Tribune Video Interview Maureen Ryan from the Chicago Tribune has interviewed Andy during Comic Con. The video is now available: View Part 1 View Part 2   The written interview can be found here Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for all the latest news, recaps, screencaptures from the Video Chat, and video from the panel!     25 July 2010 AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page Updated The Spartacus Comic Con Event Page has been updated for easy access to all things Sparty at Comic Con. Hosted goodies include: photos, video and screencaptures from the fan chat video all easy to locate Linked goodies include: articles / interviews, video, photos and funny pics of Lucy tormenting Ausiello - easy to find Click here to access the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event page     25 July 2010 Spartacus Panel Videos 1-7 Complete Now Online I've uploaded all 7 clips now and they are available to view on the AUSXIP Spartacus Video Channel - Comic Con. The clips were created by AUSXIP reporter Lori Boyles. Many thanks to her for doing that and also taking photos (with help from Annie & Kathy). The photos can be found here and the Comic Con Video Page is here Part 7 – Spartacus Panel Part 7 of the Spartaucs Panel at the 2010 Comic Con (Final Part) Part 6 – Spartacus Panel Part 6 of the Spartacus Panel at the 2010 Comic Con Part 5 Spartacus Panel Part 5 of the Spartacus Panel at 2010 Comic con Part 4 – Spartacus Panel Part 4 of the Spartacus Panel at the 2010 Comic Con Part 3 Spartacus Panel Part 3 of the Spartacus Panel at the 2010 Comic Con Part 2 – Spartacus Panel Spartacus cast: Andy Whitfield, Lucy Lawless, John Hannah, Viva Bianca and Steven DeKnight at Spartacus panel at the 2010 SDCC AUSXIP Video by Lori Boyles Part 1 Spartacus Panel Andy Whitfield being introduced to the crowd and interview before rest of the cast is introduced.     25 July 2010 Ausiello, Lucy and Her "Special Guest" This photo had me laughing out loud. Only Lucy would bring her special redheaded friend to an interview. True to her teasing of Ausiello (see below), here is a photo of Lucy, Ausiello and the "special guest" - it sure is red...It's Gretal the Merkin! LOL! After writing about Lucy for the last 14 years I NEVER thought I would be writing about her merkin!! Click here to view the larger image (this link seems to be a moving feast as new images are added to the gallery, the image number changes) Michael Ausiello (MichaelAusiello): In advance of our chat in AM, SPARTACUS' Lucy Lawless is texting me pics of herself modeling merkins. This interview could get hairy. #SDCC http://twitter.com/MichaelAusiello/status/19291480767     25 July 2010 Comic Con Cast Interviews & Video Links Here are the links for interviews and video from Comic Con. I will be adding the individual links later to the Spartacus Press Page but in the meantime here they are all grouped together. This list will be updated as more interviews & video comes through. Reported by Barbara Davies: Print & Video Chicago Tribune - Comic-Con interview: 'Spartacus' star Andy Whitfield speaks about his new 'fearlessness' - Continued Andy Whitfield doesn't often look at "Spartacus" sites or message boards -- as is the case with many actors, he thinks reading the opinions of others can be a distraction. Print - TV Squad - 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand' ... and Dish at Comic Con by Michael Maloney, posted Jul 24th 2010 12:45PM The cast of 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand' including Andy Whitfield, Lucy Lawless, John Hannah, Viva Bianca and executive producer Stephen S. DeKnight met in rooms 6B, C and F at Comic Con on Friday to talk about the show's upcoming season. Read More - Personal Blog - I am Spartacus - Today i worked downtown with the cast of the show Spartacus doing makeup for them for comic con. I was incredibly nervous but it turned out to be a lot of fun! The cast was great and super nice. The person i mainly worked with was named Viva Bianca. Read More - UGO Panel Report - Comic-Con 2010: Spartacus Promises More Blood, Gore and Glory! Stephen DeKnight and the cast prepare us for "great and unfortunate things" in the season ahead. Read More - Tubular Report on Sparty Panel Highlights from the Q+A session: - Fancast ‘Spartacus’ Prequel Promises More Drama, Battles and Creative Cursing - ‘Spartacus: Blood and Sand‘ quickly became Starz’s most popular original series...Read More Video Comic-Con 2010: Highlights of Spartacus (in five parts): http://www.youtube.com/user/HomeTheaterForum#p/u/4/Y4aZiukxZeU http://www.youtube.com/user/HomeTheaterForum#p/u/3/spA5SYALKyM http://www.youtube.com/user/HomeTheaterForum#p/u/2/D8cEZu8ivJg http://www.youtube.com/user/HomeTheaterForum#p/u/1/CtlSzJ3ESA8 http://www.youtube.com/user/HomeTheaterForum#p/u/0/pnLMfShLAGE --     25 July 2010 Spartacus Cast Fronts The Media at MySpace & MTV Tower Press Area Added photos from the press area of Lucy and Viva and then John and Andy. Photographer: Jerod Harris / Wire Image View Images   Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for all the latest news, recaps, screencaptures from the Video Chat, and video from the panel!     25 July 2010 From Dusk Til Con Party - Photos! The Sparty cast attended Poynt Presents From Dusk 'Til Con 2010 July 23, 2010 - Stingaree San Diego, CA United States Photos from the event are now on the Spartacus Comic Con Photo Gallery Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for all the latest news, recaps, screencaptures from the Video Chat, and video from the panel!     25 July 2010 Spartacus Panel at SDCC - More Photos! More photos from the Spartacus Panel at SDCC. Added these to the Spartacus at Comic Con Event section. The photos were taken by photographer Karl Walter (WireImages / Licenced) Main Gallery | Andy | Lucy | John | Viva | Steven | Whole Cast You can also view Lori's Photos from the panel here Check them out here: * Andy Whitfield - 10 Photos * Lucy Lawless - 14 Photos * John Hannah - 10 Photos * Viva Bianca - 14 Photos * Steven DeKnight - 3 Photos Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for all the latest news, recaps, screencaptures from the Video Chat, and video from the panel!     25 July 2010 Comic Con Photo Links Okay here comes the links to various photo sites and there are a few. Reported by Adi and Barbara Davies. Will be adding more as they come through: EW Exclusive Pics - Lucy - Lucy, Andy, John & Viva Panel Pics - Getty Images - Zimbio - Life Party Pics - Tweet Photos from Party | Lucy Only | Cast + Jai - Life - Getty Images - AP Images Meeting the Press - Getty Images Lucy & Viva - Getty Images John and Andy #1 and #2 Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for all the latest news, recaps, screencaptures from the Video Chat, and video from the panel!     24 July 2010 Spartacus Video Clips - Spartacus Panel Here are two more clips (I've combined them) of the start of the panel with introductions to the rest of the cast and get right into the Q&A from the audience. This is the final clip for tonight. The rest of the clips will be added tomorrow.     24 July 2010 Spartacus Panel Video #1 - Andy Intro & Mini Interview Lori has sent me three video clips (more tomorrow) and here is the first clip. This is Andy's intro and a brief interview before the rest of the cast is introduced. The video has been posted to AUSXIP Video and to the AUSXIP Video channel on Youtube.     24 July 2010 Spartacus Comic Con Panel Photos Now Online Lori sent in some gorgeous photos of the Sparty cast from the Comic Con Spartaucs Panel: Check them out here: Andy Whitfield - 10 Photos Lucy Lawless - 14 Photos John Hannah - 10 Photos Viva Bianca - 14 Photos Steven DeKnight - 3 Photos Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for all the latest news, recaps and screencaptures from the Video Chat     24 July 2010 Spartacus Cast Fan Video Chat From Comic Con - Screencaps & Recap The video chat was so much fun with Lucy, Andy, John, Viva, Steven and surprise guest Jai! Here's a brief recap of what was discussed. Click here to view screencaptures of the chat 1. Lucretia does survive and make it into Season 2 (I think we all knew this since Lucy spilled the beans some time ago) 2. One of the new cast members Marisa Ramirez is going to be Oenomaus' (Doctore) wife and her name is Melitta and she also is Lucretia's body slave. 3. Season 2 will see a much more tougher Lucretia and none too nice; Ilithyia and Lucretia will be forced to work together but from how Lucy described Lucretia, you get the feeling she will be out for Roman blood herself. 4. Jai Courtney made a surprise visit without his blond locks but now brown. Still cute. 5. Andy is looking very well although IMO a little skinny. 6. Lucy wants to cop a feel of John (those two are just cool together) 7. Andy wouldn't mind playing Bond or acting in a romantic comedy. 8. They talked about Katrina's role of Mira and how they interracted with Spartacus. Steven mentioned that Mira had never been loved so that's all she wanted from Spartacus (awww). 9. There will be some behind the scenes and deleted scenes in the DVD/Blu-Ray which is coming out in September There will be photos and video from the panel going up later tonight (as soon as Lori can send them to me...let's hope the hotel connection is good).     24 July 2010 Spartacus Gods of the Arena Teaser! Starz has officially released the teaser promo for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena! Roll on January! Goodness I love this show :)     24 July 2010 Spartacus Season 2 News From The Panel Latest news (from the Panel Tweets by Spartacus_Starz and Moryan) about Season 2: DeKnight: Slave rebellion in S2.It will get bigger & bigger as season goes. Battles will be outside gladtr arena but lots of that in prequel In S2 Spartacus will start to see big picture & become more socially conscious. More than just his revenge. But he'll still kill lotsa pple. DeKnight: "I'm a huge romantic," cites Crixus/Nevia, Lucretia/Batiatus etc. Will be lots more of that in S2 - relationships, love etc. Whitfield wants to pack on more mass for S2. In 1 he was about 185-190lbs. Here's to a 200lb Spartacus in 2011! If you want to read Prequel related news from the panel go here     24 July 2010 Spartacus Prequel News from The Panel Latest news (from the Panel Tweets by Spartacus_Starz and Moryan) about the prequel. Andy will be seen in the first episode and the last episode of the Prequel John Hannah says producers had considered 2-3 flashback eps to Batiatus' ludus even before Andy's illness. There was a chance to expand Oenomaus wife, Batiatus father -- "Instead of telling you about that in S2 we will show it to you in the prequel" EP Stephen S. DeKnight 5 minutes Lucy on the Prequel "we don't ease into the action, it starts of pretty hot, you fans will like it. All the blood and gore you can handle" Varro not coming back for prequel. They wanted to find a way to bring him in but just could not. We'll see "quite a bit" of Doctore in prequel. He plays major role, DeKnight said. Cool, cuz Oenomaus/PeterMensah is awesome.     24 July 2010 Latest Tweets From The Spartacus Panel! Here are the tweets from the Panel which just ended. Many thanks to @moryan and @spartacus_starz for all the great tweets! spartacus_starz The #Spartacus #SDCC panel just ended, thank you to the cast and fans! spartacus_starz Lucy just shared that when a character gets close to death in the show the costumes reflect ancient Roman symbols of death! spartacus_starz RT @andyinsdca: "you haven't seen all of my red wigs" - lucy lawless at #comiccon #spartacus panel moryan Lucy is incredibly naughty. I can't even write what she just said. Very funny though. moryan Happy to be embraced by gay viewers, DeKnight says. Approach all relationships simply as relationships. Will continue to have same-sex rels moryan We'll see "quite a bit" of Doctore in prequel. He plays major role, DeKnight said. Cool, cuz Oenomaus/PeterMensah is awesome. moryan Lucy: BSG's D'Anna was hard bec coming in to existing show. Sparty was hard bec new show w downstairs & upstairs worlds & didnt know bckgrnd spartacus_starz RT @MoTancharoen: #Spartacus panel! http://twitpic.com/27zyei moryan "Not for a moment" does Lucy want to pick up sword & do warrior stuff.She & Viva would eat grapes &say "look at those suckers down in dirt!" moryan 2 merch items DeKnight wants: console game & action figures. moryan Hannah & Lucy talking about "fluffer scene" & how it told the audience so much about the characters & the cultures. They're right, actually. ShowPatrol Andy didn't want #Spartacus to kill Varro. "Jai & I were a mess" shooting it. #SDCC Todfilm Just found out they are giving away leather wrist bands as Spartacus swag. Now I want one! spartacus_starz RT @RejectRobert: Whitfield wants to pack on more mass for S2. In 1 he was about 185-190lbs. Here's to a 200lb Spartacus in 2011! moryan "No cops, no doctors, no car chases etc" part of the joy of Sparty, Hannah says. But he adds that Andy wants there to be a chariot chase. moryan Varro not coming back for prequel. They wanted to find a way to bring him in but just could not. spartacus_starz A #SDCC fan referred to John Hannah as "Dominus" and John replied "Speak" with a hand wave and the crowd roared with laughter. moryan JohnHannah: Thought maybe he & Spartacus could become buddies but by ep7, knew that wasn't gonna happen. half a minute ago via web spartacus_starz A #SDCC fan just emphatically told Viva and Lucy how gorgeous they were in Season 1 of #Spartacus. spartacus_starz Andy was asked wht roles he was attracted 2 & he replies, "Roles whr my characters name is the name of the film" w/ a chuckle. moryan DeKnight: "I'm a huge romantic," cites Crixus/Nevia, Lucretia/Batiatus etc. Will be lots more of that in S2 - relationships, love etc. Continue reading Latest Tweets From The Spartacus Panel!.     24 July 2010 World Exclusive Video: The cast of 'Spartacus' attacks EW reporter at Comic-Con Further to Ausiello's tweets about being assaulted by the Sparty Cast (tough job there Michael) here is the video! View Video Read Ausiello's tweets about the "assualt"     24 July 2010 Ausiello & The Spartacus Cast Pics! Michael Ausiello was in a bit of a bother today with the Spartacus cast: Lucy, John, Viva and Andy. The following are Ausiello's tweets from his interview with them. Andy is looking great! A little skinny but it sure is great to see him again! Go Andy! @MichaelAusiello: I was just sexually assaulted by the SPARTACUS cast. I will not be pressing charges. #SDCC http://twitpic.com/27xxlt about 1 hour ago via Seesmic for Android More evidence of "the incident." Video coming soon. http://twitpic.com/27xyd1 about 1 hour ago via Twitpic Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for the streaming video and also the chat with Lucy, John, Andy, Viva and Steven.     23 July 2010 Full Interview Of Lucy On The Kilborn File Now Online The full interview with Lucy is now available on The Kilborn File official site. Part 1 is located here - Lucy shares her European trip highlights including eating too much and gaining a little bit of weight which she has to lose for the Sparty Prequel Part 2 is located here - Lucy answers 5 questions (which is asked of every guest?) and she does well.     23 July 2010 Spartacus Tattoo & Promo Pics from Comic Con Here's something that is pretty funny and cute. A Spartacus tattoo with a difference. You too can be a gladiator at The House of Batiatus by having the B tattooed on your arm <g> Just added the pic of the tatt that is at Comic Con along with two cards advertising the DVD / Blu-Ray and the Playstation Game.     Also added the Promo that Starz is sending around to promote the chat for tomorrow   Click here to view the 2010 Comic Con Gallery All photos and other promo images will be added to the gallery as they come through. Be sure to go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page for the streaming video and also the chat with Lucy, John, Andy, Viva and Steven.     23 July 2010 Lucy Lawless Teases Michael Ausiello Following yesterday's news item from Michael Ausiello that he will be interviewing Lucy at Comic Con: Speaking of which, rumor has it LL is bringing a friend with her to the EW video suite. (Hint: The friend in question was a major topic of conversation during our inaugural chat at last year's Con.) It seems that "special guest" maybe Lucy's much talked about and never seen (yeay!) merkin. Michael tweeted the following just now. Poor Michael. He has such a tough job. Michael Ausiello (MichaelAusiello): In advance of our chat in AM, SPARTACUS' Lucy Lawless is texting me pics of herself modeling merkins. This interview could get hairy. #SDCC http://twitter.com/MichaelAusiello/status/19291480767     23 July 2010 Spartacus in New Zealand Going PG Contact Music has an article about New Zealand plans to show Spartacus. It seems that NZ will be getting a PG version of the show which doesn't include nudity (there goes 95% of Episode 9 <g>) Contact Music also has a quote from Lucy "There's a PG version (in New Zealand)." Some time ago Andy was interviewed and he said that Australia was also getting the PG version which will be screening on Aussie TV by Channel 7 (7Two digital channel - I wonder if channel 7 has heard of Underbelly). Click here to read Contact Music Article     23 July 2010 New Beatriz Artwork - The Thracian New artwork by Beatriz. This time she turns her attention back to Spartacus as a Thracian soldier View Artwork You can see more of Beatriz excellent artwork on the AUSXIP Spartacus Artwork Gallery     23 July 2010 Press Release: Starz/Anchor Bay Entertainment From Dusk 'Til Con 2010 Party Starz/Anchor Bay Entertainment Present From Dusk 'Til Con 2010! 07.21.10, 07:19 PM EDT WHAT: From Dusk 'Til Con 2010 - Comic-Con Party Starz/Anchor Bay Entertainment, AMC Theatres and WHO: Multiplied Media. Talent confirmed includes "Spartacus" creator Steven DeKnight and "Spartacus" Producers Josh Donen and Aaron Lam; cast members Andy Whitfield, Lucy Lawless, John Hannah and Viva Bianca; "True Blood's" Kristin Bauer and Joe Manganiello; "Bailey" cast members '80s teen idol 'Tiffany,' Johnny Galecki ("Big Bang Theory"), Felicia Day (Dr. Horrible), Ming-Na ("E.R."), Ray Park (Star Wars), Chris Judge ("Stargate SG-1"), Brandon Routh (Superman), Crystal Reed (Teen Wolf) and Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty); Altitude stars Kaare Andrews and Jessica Lowndes ("90210"); UFC's Joey Beltran, Antonio Nogueira and Brandon Vera; WEC's Dominick Cruz; Frozendirector Adam Green and star Rileah Vanderbilt; the cast members from Scott Pilgrim vs. The World including Michael Bacall, Satya Bhabha, Michael Cera, Kieran Culkin, Chris Evans, Anna Kendrick, Bryan Lee O'Malley, Alison Pill, Aubrey Plaza, Jason Scwartzman, Mark Webber, Mae Whitman, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Ellen Wong; Tiffany Amber Thiessen ("White Collar"); Grammy(R) Award-winner Macy Gray; "Chuck's" Zachary Levi, Joshua Gomez and Vik Sahay; "Psych's" James Roday; Mark Hamill (Star Wars); "Dexter's" Julie Benz and C.S. Lee; Eli Roth (InglouriousBasterds); Saul Rubinek ("Warehouse 13"); Rainn Wilson ("The Office"); and Sam Worthington (Avatar). Continue reading Press Release: Starz/Anchor Bay Entertainment From Dusk 'Til Con 2010 Party.     23 July 2010 Comic Con Update - No Spartacus Cast Signings... The following was posted on the Spartacus Twitter account regarding the request for autographs from the Spartacus cast attending Comic Con: Some SDCC attendees asked. We confirmed no Spartacus panel signing opportunity. Sorry. What a shame. Maybe Starz will organise a huge convention for all Sparty fans to meet the cast which would be great! Let's hope so.     23 July 2010 Katrina in UK Flavour Magazine July-August 2010 Issue The UK Magazine "Flavour" July/August 2010 Issue has a two page article on Katrina. Katrina Law on Spartacus, Scuba Diving and Shampoo.   You can view it online on their zmags.com site which also features a music clip featuring clips from Spartacus with Mira and Spartacus   Click here to view Online   Click here for the larger image scans     23 July 2010 Spartacus Poll - How Much Did You Like Season 1? Hop on over to AUSXIP TX Spartacus Chat Forum to vote on Spartacus Season 1! The Spartacus Chat forum has been online before the start of Spartacus Season 1 and it's a great place to chat about the show! Check it out. It's the Official AUSXIP Spartacus Forum How much did you like it? did it live up to your expectations? live up to its potential? Click here to vote (you must register first)     22 July 2010 Lucy On The Kilborn File - Video Lucy appeared on The Kilborn File with Craig Kilborn. Lucy discussed her recent trip to Europe where she went with a friend who was sick and also for gay pride.   Video can be found on AUSXIP Video Lucy Lawless Channel (via The Daily Beast) or a shorter version which appears TVSquad News submitted by Lux (AUSXIP Talking Xena Lucy Chat Forum) and Barbara Davies     22 July 2010 Ausiello to Interview Lucy and Mystery Guest at SDCC Ausiello will once again interview Lucy who will be bringing a mystery guest with her when they meet again at the San Diego Comic Con. Here is the latest from Ausiello in his regular column at EW: Question: It's common knowledge that you're going to Comic-Con. But what is not common knowledge is what exactly you'll be doing there. Spill it! --Jason Ausiello: I don't think I like what you're insinuating. Similar to last year, I will be holed up at Entertainment Weekly's base camp at the [spoiler alert] Hotel conducting non-stop interviews with the casts of The Big Bang Theory, Fringe, Glee, Bones, Spartacus, Castle, etc. Prior to each interview I'll be soliciting questions via my Twitter account -- @michaelausiello -- so Start. Following. Me. Now. And in my down time, I'll be discreetly making my way around the convention floor hoping to get recognized taking in the sights. Question: Will Lucy Lawless be returning for season 2 of Spartacus: Blood and Sand? I know she was knocking at death's door in the finale, but I'm praying she pulls through! --Jennifer Ausiello: I'm keeping vigil right next to you, Jen! Unfortunately, I couldn't get a straight answer out of the show's EP, Steven S. DeKnight regarding Lawless' fate. "That's a good question that I can't quite answer yet," he hedged. "But she will be in the prequel. I can guarantee you that." I guess I'll just have to find out for myself later this week when I reunite with Lawless at Comic-Con. Speaking of which, rumor has it LL is bringing a friend with her to the EW video suite. (Hint: The friend in question was a major topic of conversation during our inaugural chat at last year's Con.) Watch last year's interview     22 July 2010 Spartacus Goodies at Anchor Bay Booth & Sparty Bags AUSXIP Reporters Lori, Annie and Kathy are out searching for Sparty goodies on the Comic Con Preview night. They came across the Anchor Bay Booth and sent in the following pics and these pics are the Spartacus bags - both sides of it: Keep up to date with all the latest news and multimedia from Comic Con on the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page  This page will be updated as news and pics start to roll in! Be sure to bookmark it.     22 July 2010 Spartacus Panel Advert From Comic Con AUSXIP Reporter Lori is headed to Comic Con to cover the Spartacus panel and bring back the latest news, pics and video. She reported in with a photo of the promo advertising the Sparty panel on Friday. Click on the image for the larger scan Keep up to date with all the latest news and multimedia from Comic Con on the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page This page will be updated as news and pics start to roll in! Be sure to bookmark it.     22 July 2010 New Beatriz Artwork - Legatus Glaber New artwork by Beatriz. This time she turns her attention to the nasty Roman, Legatus Glaber. View Artwork You can see more of Beatriz excellent artwork on the AUSXIP Spartacus Artwork Gallery     22 July 2010 Spartacus Live This Friday Submit Your Questions The Spartacus Fan Chat UStream is now live on the Official Spartacus site. The chat will begin on 23 July (Lucy, John, Andy, Viva and Steven will be at Comic Con) and it will start at 5:30 pm PST. FRIDAY, JULY 23 5:30 PST We're currently soliciting questions in advance for Andy Whitfield (Spartacus), Lucy Lawless (Lucretia), John Hannah (Batiatus), Viva Bianca (Ilythia) and Steven S. DeKnight (Executive Producer / Head Writer). Please post questions in reply on the Spartacus message board. The best questions will be chosen and answered live. Deadline to submit questions is Monday, July 19th 5pm MST. Follow the chat here     22 July 2010 Tubular Asking For Lucy Questions for Comic Con Tubular is going to Comic Con and they are asking for fans to submit their questions: July 21, 2010- Comic-Con: You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy Tubular is taking to the road again to bring you live coverage from San Diego Comic-Con. Starting Friday I will join 125,000 of my fellow nerds and geeks in the Western Hemisphere's largest gathering for all things comics, sci fi, and pop culture. I'll be posting daily updates and reports here at Tubular, and you can also follow along in real time on the twitters @Tubular_Whitney. I'm planning to attend the following panels, so if you've got questions for Lucy Lawless, Elizabeth Mitchell, or Eric Kripke, ask away in the comments. I'll do my best to get you answers. FRIDAY (all times listed are Pacific) Spartacus: Blood and Sand 3:15 p.m. Reported by Barbara     22 July 2010 The Australian - Australian Actors In Spartacus The following was published in The Australian 21 July 2010 AUSTRALIAN actor Dustin Clare has nabbed the big US role he’s always promised to get. He will star as the lead in the prequel to the American minsieries (yet to be seen here) Spartacus: Gods of the Arena. The sandals and swords series grabbed quite a following in the US recently for, let’s say, its graphic nature. Clare will play Gannicus, the champion gladiator in the House of Batiatus before Spartacus. Australian actor and model Andy Whitfield, who features in upcoming Aussie film The Clinic, will rejoin the cast, months after passing a cancer scare, as Spartacus. Viva Bianca, the Melbourne daughter of film composer, Cezary Skubiszewski, starred in the first series, Spartacus: Blood and Sand.     21 July 2010 Lucy Interview on The Kilborn File 21 July 2010 Sharon Delaney (Official Lucy Lawless Fan Club) has posted to the news that Lucy will be on the Craig Kilborn show "The Kilborn File" now that Lucy is in the US to promote Spartacus and to appear at Comic-Con: Lucy Lawless on The Kilborn File will air tomorrow, Wednesday, July 21, at 6:30pm (PT). The Kilborn File airs on FOX11 in Los Angeles.     21 July 2010 Interview with Marisa Ramirez - Lucretia's Body Slave on GotA Jim Halterman has interviewed Marisa Ramirez, one of the new actors for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena. Her role is that of Lucretia's Body slave and her name is Melitta. JH: What can you tell me about Melitta? Is she good? Bad? MR: What I've been told is that Melitta is a body slave to Lucretia, who is Lucy Lawless's character. I don't know what a body slave is but I'm going to find out! Melitta is married and has complicated relationships with other men and that's pretty much all I've been told. I only have the first script so far. Read Full Interview     21 July 2010 Spartacus Panel Details From the Official Comic Con site - more details about the panel. 3:15-4:15 Spartacus: Blood and Sand— Andy Whitfield (McLeod's Daughters) makes his Comic-Con debut, along with Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess), John Hannah (The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor), and Viva Bianca (Bad Bush). Executive producer Stephen S. DeKnight (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) joins the cast to discuss the upcoming prequel, titled Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, expected to air on Starz in January 2011, and the exclusive content found on the first season Blu-ray discs, available September 21. Room 6BCF Categories: Action/Adventure | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Television     21 July 2010 A Personal Post From Andy Whitfield The following message from Andy was posted on the Official Spartacus forum: To all of you incredibly generous human beings, who have supported, cared and collectively shared your stories, well wishes and inspiring words, all of which have had a profound and moving impact on me. Your time, energy and compassion have been the lift needed to glide over some of the bumpy terrain of the last few months. Thank you. I am now training again and hungry to reunite with the fantastic cast and crew. After this unexpected challenge but truly rewarding chapter, I have emerged feeling stronger, with a greater focus, commitment and passion and even more profound love of my family and friends. I am very grateful for the extraordinary journey that was Season 1 and now after my own personal shake up, am even more determined and passionately committed to having Season 2 be very special indeed. Thank you all again for your ongoing support. Andy Whitfield     20 July 2010 Starz Press Release: Gods of the Arena Casting 19 July 2010 DUSTIN CLARE CAST IN KEY ROLE OF GANNICUS IN STARZ’ SERIES ‘SPARTACUS: GODS OF THE ARENA’ Australian Actor to Play the Former Champion of Capua in Six-Part Prequel to ‘Spartacus: Blood and Sand’; Premiering in January 2011 Jaime Murray, Marisa Ramirez Also Score Key Roles as Production Gets Set to Start Beverly Hills, CA – July 19, 2010 – Spartacus wasn't the first champion of the arena. Many men lived and died on the sands before him. “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena,” the highly anticipated prequel to Starz' hit series "Spartacus: Blood and Sand," brings to life the story of Gannicus, the first gladiator to become Champion of Capua. Australian actor Dustin Clare has been tapped for the role in the series which begins production this August and will air early next year on Starz. Joining Clare in the series are Jaime Murray and Marisa Ramirez in two central roles. Also returning to reprise their roles in the series, which takes place before Spartacus joins the ludus (gladiator training school): Lucy Lawless (Lucretia), John Hannah (Batiatus), Peter Mensah (Oenomaus) and Manu Bennett (Crixus). Andy Whitfield (Spartacus), will appear briefly in the prequel, and rejoin the show in season two, which is set to begin production later this year. Continue reading Starz Press Release: Gods of the Arena Casting 19 July 2010.     19 July 2010 More Info About New Characters on Gods of the Arena Here are some details of the three new characters / cast to be added to Spartacus Gods of the Arena. The other interesting item...Peter Mensah's Doctore is now under the name of Oenomaus. As we learnt in season 1 finale, Doctore means trainer. So I wonder if Oenomaus will just have arrived at the Ludus and not yet achieved his Doctore status. New Characters Dustin Clare cast as Gannicus Dustin Clare, a virtual unknown in the U.S., but a popular TV actor in his native Australia, has landed the lead in Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, Gannicus is the first gladiator to become the Champion of Capua (I'm assuming it's the first gladiator from the House of Batiatus) Learn More about Dustin Clare Marissa Ramirez is a Slave Girl (Name not yet mentioned) Marissa Ramirez will play a beautiful slave girl with complicated relationships (is anything simple at the House of Batiatus?) Learn more about Marissa Ramirez Jaime Murray is Gaia Jaime will play Gaia is Lucretia's friend and a Capua social climber. Interesting character. Another of Lucretia's friends. Learn more about Jaime Murray     19 July 2010 Gods of the Arena Casting - Gannicus Cast Starz has cast the role of Gannicus, the gladaiator before Spartacus (and presumably before Crixus became the Champion of Capua). The Hollywood Reporter had the following news: Starz casts 'Spartacus' prequel, firms up story line Dustin Starz is firming up the cast and story line for its "Spartacus" prequel series, whose subtitle will be the epic-sounding "Gods of the Arena." Three Australian actors have joined the cast, including Dustin Clare in the lead role. Clare ("Underbelly," "Satisfaction") will play Gannicus, the champion gladiator in the House of Batiatus before Spartacus came along. "Spartacus" star Andy Whitfield, who was sidelined for several months after being diagnosed with cancer, will make a brief appearance in the prequel. He has been cleared by doctors to return to work. "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena" will begin production on six episodes next month and will hit the air in January. Season 2 of "Spartacus: Blood and Sand," starring Whitfield, will begin production immediately after "Arena" wraps and air later in 2011 for an undetermined number of episodes. Starz also has cast Jaime Murray ("Dexter) as a Capua social climber and Marisa Ramirez ("General Hospital") as a slave girl. In the prequel, Batiatus (John Hannah) is not yet the head of his family or of the gladiator training school. Gannicus is the lead gladiator in the Ludus, but the House of Batiatus hasn't earned social respect or the right for its gladiators to fight in championship bouts. Gannicus struggles to turn around the House's luck. Source     19 July 2010 New Beatriz Artwork - Varro Beatriz has created a tribute to one of our favourite gladiators, Varro. View Artwork You can see more of Beatriz excellent artwork on the AUSXIP Spartacus Artwork Gallery     19 July 2010 Spartacus Lookalike Contest...And The Winner Is... Recently I posted the news about the Andy Whitfield Fan Facebook page holding a Spartacus Look-a-like contest. Louse just sent me the pic of the winner! This young man could pass as Andy quite easily. The photo was submitted by Liza Valiente. First The Original - Andy Whitfield and now the winner of the lookalike contest Many thanks to Louise for the update!     18 July 2010 Lucy as Lucretia in Gods of the Arena Promo Added a new promo for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena with Lucy as Lucretia.     View Larger Image View more Lucy in Spartacus Promo Images on AUSXIP Spartacus Galleries     18 July 2010 Spartacus Chat UStream Now Online The Spartacus Fan Chat UStream is now live on the Official Spartacus site. The chat will begin on 23 July (Lucy, John, Andy, Viva and Steven will be at Comic Con) and it will start at 5:30 pm PST.               FRIDAY, JULY 23 5:30 PST Details on Spartacus Live Chat Coming Soon We're currently soliciting questions in advance for Andy Whitfield (Spartacus), Lucy Lawless (Lucretia), John Hannah (Batiatus), Viva Bianca (Ilythia) and Steven S. DeKnight (Executive Producer / Head Writer). Please post questions in reply on the Spartacus message board. The best questions will be chosen and answered live. Deadline to submit questions is Monday, July 19th 5pm MST.     18 July 2010 Spartacus Character Promo Images Updated Updated Spartacus Promo Images gallery to include two images of Spartacus and Lucretia. Also added two images of Spartacus used in promos for the show. Click here to view Lucy/Lucretia Images Click here to view Andy/Spartacus Images You can find all the Character promo images on AUSXIP Spartacus Image Gallery     18 July 2010 Beatriz Artwork Update - Spartacus Beatriz is back with a stunning new piece and she has turned her sights back to Spartacus. View Artwork You can see more of Beatriz excellent artwork on the AUSXIP Spartacus Artwork Gallery     18 July 2010 Comic Con Starz / Anchor Bay Booth Spartacus Prequel Props Fans stopping by the Starz/Anchor Bay booth #3345 at Comic Con will experience: Comic Con Premiere of official Altitude theatrical trailer at Anchor Bay booth; Comic Con Premiere of official theatrical trailer for Hunt To Kill with Steve “Stone Cold” Austin; Trailers for upcoming Anchor Bay Entertainment releases including the I Spit On Your Grave remake, Adam Green’s Frozen, The Stranger with Steve “Stone Cold” Austin, Dolph Lundgren is The Killing Machine, and Tekken. Upcoming Manga releases previewed include First Squad and Redline; Authentic production props from “Spartacus” prequel. In addition, fans who come by the ABE booth will be eligible to win prizes, including Blu-rays™, DVDs and signed posters! Source (Reported by Barbara Davies) For more about the Spartacus cast at the 2010 Comic Con Panel and Other Events go to the AUSXIP Spartacus 2010 Comic Con Event Page     16 July 2010 Spartacus in Venezuela DirecTV in July 2010 Venezuela is about to be hit with Sparty fever! Romelia just sent the following news: Venezuela DIRECTV and MovieCity are announcing SPARTACUS. First episode next Sunday 11th, 22.00 hs, channel 1004. Here´s the link: http://www.directv.com.ve/programacion/moviecity/index     16 July 2010 Spartacus Lookalike Contest - Join in the Fun! This should be fun! Okay Louise from the Andy Whitfield Fan Facebook page has sent in the following info: Right ladies & gentlemen!! We are starting a Spartacus lookalike competition TODAY!! (Any & all characters from the show, not just the man himself!) If ppl could tag all their entries/photos with the word "lookalike" and the name of the person in the pic and post them on this main wall they will be judged on Sunday the 18th of July - 9pm UK time (check discussion board for your time zones!) Click here on how to enter and where to submit your photo!     16 July 2010 More Photos of Lucy and Peter from Monte-Carlo Here are some more pics from Lucy and Peter from the Monte-Carlo Television Festival which was held in June 2010.   Lucy   Peter (Reported by Adi) Catch up with latest news, video, reports and photos from the Monte-Carlo TV Festival on the AUSXIP Spartacus Monte-Carlo Television Festival Event Page     16 July 2010 Beatriz Artwork Update - Crixus After a brief break, Beatriz is back creating her gorgeous artwork. This time it's Crixus, the Champion of Capua and other other half of the most romantic couple of Crixus and Naevia Click here to view Check out Beatriz's other Spartacus artwork - it's brilliant!     16 July 2010 Our Son's Battle With Cancer and Rise To Fame THE parents of Spartacus star Andy Whitfield have spoken of their son’s battle with cancer and Hollywood success. Andy Whitfield, of Bull Bay, Amlwch, was diagnosed with non-Hogkins lymphoma earlier this year, which threatened filiming of the second series of the smash television show Spartacus in which Andy stars as the title character. His parents Robert and Pat Whitfield flew out to 35-year-old Andy’s home in Sydney, Australia to support him, his wife Vashti and their two children when they heard the news. “We weren’t quite sure what we were going to find, but he was full of health, bright and bouncy,” said Robert. Read More     15 July 2010 Spartacus Screencaptures An Update With Spartacus: Gods of the Arena going to air in January, I've been asked by several AUSXIP readers if I will be posting screencaptures once again. First a backstory to this: During Season 1, I was posting screencaptures of ALREADY SCREENED episodes after they had been shown on the US West Coast. There was no Starz policy related to not create screencaptures (that I knew of). During Season 1 some fans decided that they needed to be showoffs and start circulating screencaptures and/or video clips from episodes NOT screened. We're not talking about episodes that have gone to air on the East Coast and not the West Coast. We are talking episodes that were to screen 2-3 weeks down the track. These fans were warned not to do it because it will have consequences. Those consequences came in full force and it was Starz's absolute right to do so. Starz decided to ban ALL screencaptures from episodes; including already airred episodes. Now, how was Starz going to enforce this rule was the big problem considering how we all know the web works BUT that wasn't my concern. The new Starz policy came into force because screencaptures and video were being circulated of Episode 9 (Whore) and 10. Two very pivotal episodes that Starz NEEDED to keep some surprise element too (Ep 9 was a complete game changer and of course episode 10 which changed the direction of everyone's life and ended poor Varro's life...still mourn for Varro) Those fans spoilt it completely. Up until episdoe 8, we posted screencaptures of airred episodes without any Starz comment but that leaking was too much. You can push the copyright boundaries so far and then when you step over that line...you are going to get whapped. AUSXIP and the AUSXIP Talking Xena / Spartacus Chat boards enforced the no screencapture rule after I was asked by Starz to remove them. I also believe other websites and forums also enforced this rule. There are those sites who don't adhere to this request but that's their decision. This decision also impacted on artwork. Artists could not use screencaptures to create art. I think is the biggest problem because fans have universally expressed their love for a show via their art. AUSXIP was born to showcase my love for Xena/Lucy Lawless and to showcase my art...there wouldn't be an AUSXIP if RenPics came down on the fans like Starz did; RenPics, at the time, allowed fans alot of freedom but in turn, the fans also behaved and didn't cross any gross copyright infringement. I remember a couple of times when RenPics did come down on some fans who were selling artwork but that didn't have repercussians on the rest of the fandom. I don't blame Starz at all; it's their right. I blame the boofheads (Aussie slang...google it) who created the problem. Now back to the present. So the answer to this question about screencaptures for Gods of the Arena and for Season 2 is this: Starz have not indicated that this policy will change (I have asked). So until Starz gives me the nod to add screencaptures, no screencaptures are going to be created for GofA or Season 2. AUSXIP has been authorised to use any official image and episode stills but no screencaptures. That's the policy until Starz reverse their decision. Cheers, MaryD     15 July 2010 Steven Talks About Spartacus Season 2 - NO SPOILERS The following is from Ausiello at Entertainment Weekly. Does not contain spoilers: Question: I’m so incredibly proud of you for finally getting acquainted with Spartacus: Blood & Sand and acknowledging Andy Whitfield’s awesomeness. Now how about you throw us a couple of season 2 spoilers? —Alex Ausiello: Given the events of the mind-blowing season 1 finale, it’s not much of a spoiler to say the show will undergo a huge transformation in season 2. “It’s a testament to Starz that they allowed us to do that,” says showrunner Steven S. DeKnight of the big changes in store. “The bigger broadcast networks [would be too concerned with] protecting the franchise. It’s a huge risk. But at the end of the day we ARE telling the story of Spartacus, which is largely the slave rebellion. Those first 13 episodes were literally two paragraphs in the history books. Most of what’s known about him is after the break-out.” Source     15 July 2010 Lesley-Ann In Spartacus: GotA Costume Fitting Lesley-Ann is back in New Zealand and went straight for a costume fitting for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena! She tweeted the following about it: And I'm in Capua!!! tried on my costume and it's perrrrrrfect. Great to see all the crew, can't wait to start training on monday!     15 July 2010 Spartacus Cast To Attend 'From Dusk 'Til Con' 2010 Comic-Con Party The following press release was issued today from Multiplied Media to announces 'From Dusk 'Til Con' 2010 Comic-Con Party. It appears that the Wrath of Con party has had a name change to From Dusk 'Til Con (maybe a play on one of Starz/Encore movie promotions currently underway (see Starz Press release) Multiplied Media to Bring Red Carpet Event to San Diego's Stingaree Nightclub Partners Include Starz' 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand' and AMC Theatres(R) Film Fanatics Award Recognizing Stan Lee and Edgar Wright CALGARY, ALBERTA AND LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA AND KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, Jul 14, 2010 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- Multiplied Media Corporation /quotes/comstock/11v!e:mmc (CA:MMC 0.12, +0.02, +15.00%) , a leading provider of mobile local search services and makers of the Poynt local search app for BlackBerry and iPhone, is teaming up with Anchor Bay Entertainment and Starz' original television series Spartacus: Blood and Sand, as well as AMC Theatres to announce the must-attend Comic-Con 2010 red carpet event, From Dusk 'til Con. This star-studded party will be held at the Stingaree Nightclub located in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter on Friday, July 23rd. As with similar parties in years past, From Dusk 'til Con promises to be the hottest ticket among events scheduled outside the convention center in San Diego. Spartacus: Blood and Sand cast, including Andy Whitfield (Spartacus), Lucy Lawless (Lucretia), John Hannah (Batiatus) and Viva Bianca (Ilythia) will attend the event as well as executive producer and series creator Steven S. DeKnight. Spartacus: Blood and Sand was a breakout hit series on Starz when it aired earlier this year. Anchor Bay Entertainment, Starz' home entertainment company, is set to release the Spartacus: Blood and Sand Blu-Ray(TM) and DVD on September 21, 2010. "Comic-Con is where Spartacus: Blood and Sand got its initial launch last year and it remains a crucially important event for the series' avid fan base," said Kevin J. Carney, Director of Marketing at Anchor Bay Entertainment. "Being part of the From Dusk 'til Con party adds value and more importantly fun, to our time spent at the conference. The party is going to be a big highlight for the cast and should help get the word out about the exciting expansion of our Spartacus franchise." Read More Reporting by MaryD and Barbara Davies     15 July 2010 Lucy In US TV Guide 19 July 2010 There is a Lucy mention and a gorgeous pic of her with Andy in this week's US TV Guide - 17 July 2010 TV Insider Everyone's at Comic Con - Lucy and Andy at upcoming Comic Con. Also features a quote from Lucy about a previous comic con where she donned a mask and went incognito. Click here to view the scan     15 July 2010 AUSXIP House of Batiatus Site Update The site has been given a new banner (look up) and despite the Official name of the prequel being Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, I'm sticking with AUSXIP House of Batiatus and adding Spartacus Gods of the Arena to it as well just for good measure :) There will be a ton of news about the prequel at this year's comic con so get set for an avalanche of news and images from Starz PR to show up. As per Spartacus Season 1, AUSXIP will have authorised promo images from Starz and other goodies. Stay tuned!     13 July 2010 Starz Live Video Interview with Spartacus Cast The following was posted by Starz on the Official Spartacus forum: Friday, July 23rd 5:30pm PST – Details on chat to follow We’re soliciting excellent advance questions for Andy Whitfield (Spartacus), Lucy Lawless (Lucretia), John Hannah (Batiatus), Viva Bianca (Ilythia) and Steven S. DeKnight (Executive Producer / Head Writer). Please post questions in reply to this board post. The best questions will be chosen and answered live. Deadline to submit questions is Monday, July 19th 5pm MST. If you see a question already posted that you like, give it a good rating. Likewise, if you see one that stinks, rate it low. We'll be paying attention. :smileywink: Thanks! Submit your question here     10 July 2010 Spartacus in Japan on 24 July It's Japan's turn to experience Spartacus Blood and Sand starting 24 July. The following was posted on the site JapanToday.com Star Channel will start showing the U.S. television series “Spartacus: Blood and Sand” from July 24. Talk show “Sekine Tsutomu Eiga no Jikan” co-hosts Tomoko Matsumoto and Tsutomu Sekine discussed the gladiator series recently on one of their programs along with Japanese mixed martial arts fighter and professional wrestler Nobuhiko Takada and TV personality Dave Spector. Sekine said he was very enthusiastic about the story that focuses on the Thracian slave Spartacus, who led a major slave uprising against the Roman Republic. Takada said the fighting techniques of the stars were amazing. “I can only imagine the sort of training gladiators had to go through. I think it must have taken at least two years for them to become fighting machines.” Spector, who appeared on the show wearing an original T-shirt he bought himself, commented on the popularity of the show in the U.S. and said that “it’s a show that was created for cable TV. Before it aired, it wasn’t really well known, but once people started seeing it, they thought it was awesome. It got good media reviews.” “Spartacus: Blood and Sand” will premiere on Sat, July 24. The first episode will be free to watch. After that, it airs every Friday from 9 p.m. starting from July 30. Source     10 July 2010 Spartacus Panel Details Released Comic Con has released the Spartacus Blood and Sand Panel details: 3:15-4:15 Spartacus: Blood and Sand— Andy Whitfield (McLeod's Daughters) makes his Comic-Con debut, along with Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess), John Hannah (The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor), and Viva Bianca (Bad Bush). Executive producer Stephen S. DeKnight (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) joins the cast to discuss the upcoming prequel, titled Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, expected to air on Starz in January 2011, and the exclusive content found on the first season Blu-ray discs, available September 21. Room 6BCF Source (Reported by Lori Boyles)     9 July 2010 Spartacus Panel Moderator James Hibberd James Hibberd is going to be moderating the Spartacus Panel on 23 July at Comic Con. The following news is from the Hollywood Reporter: Postscript! I am going to Comic-Con. This year I'm moderating two panels: Fox's action-drama "Human Target" and Starz' epic "Spartacus: Blood and Sand." More details on both coming soon... (News submitted by Barbara Davies) An unconfirmed schedule for the Spartacus panel has been released - see yesterday's post here Keep updated on all the latest news from the Spartacus panel on AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page     9 July 2010 Spartacus Gets No Emmy Nomination Well it seems the Emmys are giving Spartacus a miss with no Emmy nominations for this year. That's not great news. It seems monstersandcritics site also agrees. What a shame. All of the cast were worthy of emmy nominations. 2010 Full Emmy nominee list reveals predictable choices If you woke up early to hear the list of nominees, you can go back to sleep. Starz' "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" was also missed on the list. That series turned TV on its ear and stars Andy Whitfield and Lucy Lawless turned in exemplary work too. Source (News submitted by Barbara Davies)     8 July 2010 Spartacus S1 Episode 7 UK Ratings The UK ratings for Spartacus Season 1 Episode 7: Great and Unfortunate Things have been posted: Great and Unfortunate Things Overcome by the pressure of Batiatus' control, Spartacus must make a choice: leave his past behind and assume the mantle of a champion gladiator, or die. Multimedia for this episode Credits | Official Page | Promo Pics | Episode Video Promos: #1 #2 #3 MaryD Episode Preview US Airdate: 05 March 2010 | Rating: 0.974 million (US) UK Airdate: July 2010 | Rating: 288,000/1.6% Source (Reported by Eddy)     8 July 2010 Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Jewelry Here's an interesting piece of news about the Spartacus prequel: Spartacus: Gods of the Arena. This was posted on The Crafty Celts facebook page. The Crafty Celts Yesterday we mailed a box of jewelry off to Pacific Renaissance, LTD, in Auckland, New Zealand (the creators of Zena and Hercules). They are creating a prequel to Spartacus, Blood and Sand, and will be using our jewelry in it! 10 hours ago Visit their website here (Reported by Barbara Davies) --     8 July 2010 Spartacus Comic Con Panel Times Comic Con is fast approaching and on 23 July the Spartacus cast: Andy Whitfield, John Hannah, Lucy Lawless, Viva Bianca and Steven DeKnight will be attending the Spartacus Panel and later that night be at the Wrath of Con party hosted by Starz. Barbara Davies sent in the following news on what time on 23 July the panel will be held at: IGN has a schedule of what time on 23 July the Spartacus panel will take place. As yet this has not been confirmed. Hopefully the official Comic Con schedule for Friday 23rd will be posted soon. SDCC 10: TV Panels at Comic-Con Chuck, Smallville, The Walking Dead, Simpsons and... Castle? US, July 7, 2010 by Eric Goldman San Diego Comic-Con is fast approaching, and we're starting to hear details on what panels will be there in the TV world. Every year it seems like there can't possibly be even more panels than the year before, and yet just looking at the list so far, I am one tired TV reporter. Time to get ready for four more uber-exhausting, jam-packed days. Big thanks to Chicago Tribune's Maureen Ryan, Seat42F, and Hollywood Reporter's James Hibberd for breaking the news on many of these panels. Friday, July 23rd 3:30pm-4:30pm: Spartacus: Blood and Sand (Room TBA) For more on the Spartacus Comic Con panel go to the AUSXIP Spartacus Comic Con Event Page     8 July 2010 Starz Show Promo Removed From Vimeo If you didn't catch the Starz Show Promo on Vimeo, you have missed it. Starz pulled the video. Poof, it's gone :( Hopefully Starz will officially post it on youtube. Screencaptures can be found here     8 July 2010 Ausiello A Sparty Fan... It's taken him some time to get addicted but someone else has joined the fanbase - Ausiello from Entertainment Weekly. Question: Any summer guilty pleasures you’d like to recommend? —Nick Ausiello: I finally got around to watching Starz’ Spartacus: Blood and Sand and it’s officially my new crack. I’m seven episodes in and I’m hooked. If Andy Whitfield is reading this — and let’s face it, he probably is — I’m sorry I failed to include you in my Dream Emmy Ballot. I hope to one day make it up to you. Source     8 July 2010 It's Time For Spartacus Manilla Times 8 July 2010 IT’S TIME FOR SPARTACUS - Manilla Times 8 July 2010 BRACE yourselves good citizens of sofas in front of TV sets, Spartacus: Blood and Sand is coming to local cable! The big event happens on Max at 10 p.m. on July 10th. There’s been quite a buzz surrounding this new show since early this year—in a nutshell it’s been compared to the Zach Snyder’s 300, Ridley Scott’s Gladiator and the HBO series Rome. In terms of look, much is borrowed from 300—stunning bright blood reds in pools and splashes providing a strong contrast to the golden, tan and brown color of sand, sandals, skin, heat and shields. The photography and art direction may not be entirely original but it is arresting. You are compelled to look. In 300, the graphic artists tried to make the blood look aesthetically pleasing. So it is with Spartacus. Of course, it is not just blood, which becomes the main aesthetic plaything—there is the human body, played upon by blood, lamplight, oil, sweat and dirt. Let’s not be coy about this, Spartacus in its original uncut form does not just include a lot of visually gripping, rather outrageous violence, it’s got a lot of nudity. Continue reading It's Time For Spartacus Manilla Times 8 July 2010.     7 July 2010 Spartacus in Argentina 25 July 2010 This is a cool Spartacus official site for the show in Argentina. Spartacus will be shown in Argentina on 25 July 2010. Check out the official site (Reported by Barbara Davies)     6 July 2010 Sparty Gals and Guy Take Over Six Flags No they didn't slash and burn but looks like they had a jolly good time! Lesley-Ann, Katrina, Keith and Nick Tarabay were out having mega fun this 4th July long weekend.   As you can see from this photo they had a lousy time :) More pics to follow. Click here to view the larger pic     4 July 2010 We Will Rock You Advert - Gladiatrix in the Arena This has nothing to do with Spartacus (if I stretch it a little, I could say this is set in the arena with three gladiatrix, how's that?). I came across this video clip which I had digitized from 2004 while I was updated the AUSXIP Video section. I found a much cleaner and HD version on Youtube. Enjoy! This is one of my favourite songs (the classic We Will Rock You from Queen) sung by three extremely talented women: Beyonce, Pink and Brittney Spears. The commercial was created for the 2004 Superbowl and remains one of my all time favourite adverts. Watch Video     4 July 2010 AUSXIP Interviews Erin Cummings - Part 3 Part 3 AUSXIP Interviews Erin Cummings. In the third part of this video interview with Erin we find out - What are the differences between working in NZ and in LA - What’s it like working on location like Hawaii - Will Sura be back for Season 2? - What did happen to Sura in captivity? - What did Erin learn from working with Lucy Lawless Watch AUSXIP Interviews Erin Cummings - Part 3 AUSXIP Interviews Erin Cummings Part 1 and Part 2     3 July 2010 Lesley-Ann School Photo - Mega Cute! Oh, this is just too cute. This is Lesley-Ann back in her school days for the official school photos. Look at that cute face and cheeky grin!   Check out the larger version here     3 July 2010 Spartacus Comic Con Wrath of Con Spokesmodel The Wrath of Con party at this year's Comic Con will have a Spartacus sponsored theme. As previously reported, the Spartacus cast: Lucy, Andy, Viva, John and Steven will be there at Comic Con on 23 July 2010 for the Spartacus Panel. The day will end with a Spartacus-sponsored late night "Wrath of Con" party where the stars will be in attendance (read official press release) The following casting notice is for a Wrath of Con Party Spokesmodel: Casting Notice Description: 'WRATH OF CON' PARTY SPOKESMODEL Ignited is casting a spokesmodel to help host the Wrath of Con industry party at this year's Comic-Con convention in San Diego. David Lock, Senior event mgr. Seeking—Spokesmodel: female, 18-39, any ethnicity, gorgeous geek, "when the industry famous show up on the red carpet or at the door - you will need to recognize them, both popular and obscure, and engage them when appropriate. You'll need to flaunt your inner geek and have a great talent for faces and names. Do you know who Sam Raimi, Joss Whedon, and Felicia Day are? Do you regularly watch the SyFy channel and Starz? Have you been to Comic-Con three years straight? Then maybe you're a fit for this role." Continue reading Spartacus Comic Con Wrath of Con Spokesmodel.     Read More Archives