February 2011 Archives   27 February 2011 Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Behind The Scenes Photos! Lesley-Ann has posted more pics from behind the scenes on Spartacus Gods of the Arena. Click here to view the images     27 February 2011 Gods of the Arena: The Bitter End - Recap by MaryD Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Recap by MaryD Oh my goodness me! Was that the best hour of television I have seen in a long time or what! I'm going to go into super fan girl mode here (as opposed to normal fan girl mode) and say: WHAT ABSOLUTELY FRAKKING BRILLIANT PIECE OF TELEVISION! The revenge, the betrayal, the glory, the gory bits EVERYTHING is just frakking brilliant. In my opinion the finds of the series were Dustin Clare and Jessica Grace Smith. We will see Dustin again in Season 2 as Gannicus but alas Jessica's Diona is no longer of this world. Watch for Jessica Grace Smith; she's got a bright future ahead of her. Alrightly let's go down and do the character assessments again as others will review the episode... Continue reading Gods of the Arena: The Bitter End - Recap by MaryD.     27 February 2011 The 10 Hottest Women From "Spartacus" Complex has a list of The 10 Hottest Women From "Spartacus". Personally I dislike these lists because all the actresses are just gorgeous. Click here to view     27 February 2011 Spartacus: Gods of the Arena DVD & Blu-Ray - Pre-Order From Amazon.com Spartacus: Gods of the Arena now available to pre-order through Amazon.com Pre-Order DVD | Pre-Order Blu-Ray # Actors: John Hannah, Lucy Lawless, Dustin Clare, Peter Mensah, Jaime Murray # Producers: Robert Tapert, Sam Raimi, Steven S. DeKnight, Joshua Donen # Format: NTSC # Region: Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only. # Studio: Anchor Bay Entertainment # Run Time: 300 minutes     26 February 2011 This Week's Spartacus Draw Them All Comic Strips - Episode 5 Reckoning Olansameulle has sent in her new Spartacus Draw Them All comic strips based on Gods of the Arena Episdoe 5: Reckoning Click here to view them all     26 February 2011 EW Interview with Steven about Season 2 + Andy's Health and Liam McIntyre EW Interviews Steven DeKnight. 'Spartacus' creator talks 'Gods of the Arena' finale, epic season two plans Posted 25 February 2011 Some highlights from the interview Can you give fans an update on how Andy Whitfield is doing? Last I heard he's doing great, fighting the good fight, very much concentrating on his health and family. It's a horrible thing, I wouldn't wish it on anybody. I have no doubt Andy will beat it. He's one of the strongest and most centered men I've ever met. He's very private, but I hear third-hand that he looks great and is in high spirits. Liam McIntyre, who will play Spartacus in season two, looks a lot like Andy. How important was that? Not important at all. We were trying to find somebody who didn't look exactly like him. We saw a thousand people. It came down to a handful of choices. Liam was the only one who resembled Andy. What we really loved about Liam is he had an honesty and intensity and compassion and sympathy in his performance -- something that Andy really brought to the role. Spartacus doesn't come from a place of anger. So season two is not coming until next January right? Unfortunately, we cannot air it until the end of January. Our post-production process takes so long. We can start airing it sooner, but we'd have to air five episodes and go on a long break. And Starz has Camelot in the spring and Torchwood in the summer. Read full interview     26 February 2011 Interview with Lesley-Ann Brandt & Fan Q&A 25 February 2011 Lesley-Ann has been interviewed by The Bringer of Rain site which also includes questions from fans! Check out this pretty interesting interview. Click here to read     25 February 2011 Monsters and Critics Interview Nick - Unearths The Layers of Ashur Throughout both "Blood and Sand" and "Gods Of The Arena" we have seen some fascinating character journeys, and amongst the most interesting is that of gladiator Ashur, played by Nick Tarabay. Perhaps amongst the best and most innovative shows on television at present is "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" and the prequel series "Gods of The Arena," which concludes this Friday. The series has the kind of scheming and backstabbing characters that you’d expect to see in any Roman epic, but in this series they are unashamedly plotting and scheming in order to get or head or in the case of the gladiators to survive. Throughout both "Blood and Sand" and "Gods Of The Arena" we have seen some fascinating character journeys, and amongst the most interesting is that of gladiator Ashur, played by Nick Tarabay. I recently caught up with Nick Tarabay and here is what he had to share with me about his role in the series, and gives some hints at what is to come. Read Interview -- AUSXIP Reporter Klippart     25 February 2011 TV Guide Interviews Manu Bennett - Joy for Naevia & Crixus Fans TV Guide Interviews Manu Bennett about Gods of the Arena and Season 2 For all of us Naevia and Crixus fans, it does look like Crixus will be out searching for his Naevia. Good man; as it should be! <g> Priorities...Sparty can take care of the rebellion..he's got his woman to find! Now that Crixus is out, will he and Naevia be reunited? Bennett: He'll look for her, that's what I heard. The Naevia storyline, that romantic storyline, has become a huge part of the fan base. It was the main relationship storyline from Season 1, and I think there will more in the Crixus/Naevia story than even existed before Read the full interview here -- AUSXIP Reporter: Klippart 糡Ⱀᡵࠆ<     25 February 2011 GotA Episode 6 Video Promos & Clips E6 Bound To Each Other - Gods of the Arena Posted on: 25th February 2011 With Melitta now passing away, The Domina of the Ludus has appointed Naevia as her slave. She also give Naevia a tattoo! So now we know how Naevia got that beautiful butterfly tattoo (other than Lesley-Ann having it already Gods of the Arena Politics & Power Posted on: 25th February 2011 Politics and Power in Capua. Gods of the Arena Episode 6: The Bitter End Batiatus seeks vengeance for all that has befallen him and retains his gladiators and Solonius in the cause. The opening of the new arena arrives, promising a spectacle of combat and blood. Credits | Official Page | Episode Stills | Watch [...] E6 The Bitter End "Fight For Her" Gods of the Arena Posted on: 25th February 2011 From ep 6 "The Bitter End". Feb 25th 10pm e/p on Starz - Doctore talks to his friend Gannicus about fighting in the arena and doing it "for her". I suspect Gannicus' love sick look has not been lost on Doctore for this now deceased wife.     24 February 2011 Talking TV with Ryan and Ryan: Ryan talks To Spartacus Exec Producer Steven DeKnight Maureen “Mo” Ryan and Ryan McGee chat about all things television-related in an informative, witty manner. This is your one-stop shop for the small screen. “Talking TV with Ryan and Ryan” talks “Spartacus” with executive producer Steven S. DeKnight February 23, 2011 – 8:31 pm Mo Ryan and I were thrilled to be joined by Steven S. DeKnight, former scribe on shows such as “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Smallville,” current executive producer on the bloody good STARZ series. Learn how the genesis of the series actually began in Las Vegas, how the show’s crazy production schedule ended up working in its favor, and learn what’s to come as DeKnight and Company start work on Season 2 of the show. Read More / Listen to Podcast     24 February 2011 What To Expect From Spartacus Season 2 - Minor Spoilers from IGN What to Expect from Spartacus Season 2 IGN talks to Blood and Sand creator Steven S. DeKnight, and series stars Lucy Lawless and Peter Mensah, about leaving the Ludus behind. US, February 23, 2011 With Spartacus: Gods of the Arena just one episode from being over -- just one episode before we say goodbye to Batiatus forever – we devoted Blood and Sand fans will have to set our sights on Season 2 of this bloody great series. With Liam McIntyre taking over the titular role of Spartacus from the unfortunately ill Andy Whitfield, Season 2 looks to take us out of the Ludus, fleeing into the wilderness with our band of outlaw gladiators. IGN had a chance to speak with series creator/writer Steven S. DeKnight, as well as stars Lucy Lawless and Peter Mensah, about igniting the rebellion and heading forward into a war with Rome. Read Interview     24 February 2011 37th Annual Saturn Awards Nominations - Spartacus BaS & GotA & Lucy Lawless Los Angeles, CA (February 24, 2011) - The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films has announced the nominations for the 37th Annual Saturn Awards. The awards take place in Burbank, California in June 2011. The Academy was founded in 1972 by noted film historian Dr. Donald A. Reed to honor and recognize genre entertainment. Over the years, the Academy has expanded their reach to include other film genres. The organization also recognizes excellence in television and home entertainment. Robert Holguin presently serves as President of the 39 year old organization. Best Syndicated/Cable Television Series: Spartacus: Blood and Sand is nominated up against Breaking Bad, The Closer), Dexter, Eureka, Leverage and True Blood Best Supporting Actress in Television: Lucy Lawless is nominated up against Morena Baccarin (V), Gina Bellman (Leverage), Jennifer Carpenter (Dexter), Laurie Holden (The Walking Dead and Beth Riesgraf (Leverage) Best Television Presentation Spartacus: Gods of the Arena (Starz) is nominated against Doctor Who: A Christmas Carol (BBC America), Kung Fu Panda Holiday Special (NBC), The Pillars of the Earth (Starz), Sherlock (PBS), The Walking Dead (AMC) Click here for more nominations -- AUSXIP Reporter: Klippart     24 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 5: Reckoning Ratings The ratings for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Episode 5: Reckoning have been released. TVbythenumbers is reporting: Spartacus: Gods of the Arena averaged 1.38 million viewers and a 0.6 rating in adults 18-49, up 0.1 from last week.   EPISODE # and Name Rating Ep 1: Past Transgressions 1.1 Million Ep 2: Missio Ep 3: Paterfamilias Ep 4: Beneath The Mask Ep 5: Reckoning 1.1 Million 1.264 Million 1.112 million 1.38 million     24 February 2011 Starz Super Pack DIRECTV Free Trial from 24-27 Feb Includes Gods of the Arena Starz Super Pack DIRECTV Free Trial from February 24-27 Englewood, Colo., February 23, 2010 – The Starz and Encore DIRECTV Free Trial begins Feb. 24, 2011 and runs through Feb. 27, 2011. In total, the DIRECTV Starz Super Pack, comprising 15 Starz and Encore premium channels, will be available for previewing by all DIRECTV customers, including eight channels in high definition (HD). Exclusive Starz Originals, including the series finale of the “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena” prequel and a sneak preview of the upcoming original series, “Camelot,” will be featured in addition to exclusive first-run Starz movie titles available during the free trial including: The Karate Kid, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and Death at a Funeral. Read More     24 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Scan from EW Magazine 25 Feb 2011 The season finale "The Bitter End" is previewed in this week's EW Magazine 25 February 2011 Issue. Scanned by Roger Click on image for larger scan For more Spartacus articles go to AUSXIP Spartacus Press     24 February 2011 Meet Dustin Clare and Jaime Murray - Screencrave Interview 21 Jan 2011 Tonight, is the night that gladiators and statesman return to the Starz network with the prequel series, “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena.” The show takes place several years before the arrival of the title character and focuses on another all star champion: Gannicus. Gannicus is played by Australian actor Dustin Clare, and we recently had the opportunity to speak with him and the lovely Jaime Murray (“Dexter“) who plays Gaia on the show. The newbies add more intrigue and sex appeal (is that even possible?) to the series, and they’ll be the ones to watch as the story of “Gods of the Arena” unfolds. Without further ado, allow us to introduce you to Gannicus and Gaia… Read Interview     24 February 2011 Spartacus Magazine Scan - Veja Magazine 04 August 2010 Veja magazine had an article about Spartacus in their August 4 2010 issue. A translation of the article will be available soon. Scanned/Contributed by Wladimir. Click on the thumbnail for the larger scan     21 February 2011 Nick in Bodybuilding.com Interview & Video Nick has been interviewed for BodyBuilding.com on his workout for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena and also there is video of the gladiator training so you can get into the same shape as the Gladiators! Watch Nick's interview here  Bodybuilding Gladiator Circuit Workout     21 February 2011 Spartacus Vengeance News - Michael Hurst To Direct As Gods of the Arena winds down (episode 5 was one of the best hours of television I've seen in a long time - Lucy simply OWNED that episode and did anyone notice the wig change? Subtle but oh so powerful and the emergence of The Domina of the Ludus and lots lots lots more) we get some news about Spartacus: Vengeance (Season 2) from Michael Hurst. The following is from Michael's official site 2011: Spartacus: Vengeance Michael will be directing episodes of the new season; check back for details. Roll on Season 2! Our favourite gladiators, ex-domina's, Legate's wives and new characters will be back and I can't wait to see what they come up with to top BaS and GotA! I'm also looking forward to seeing Liam McIntyre as Spartacus. It is going to be EPIC! Read more Season 2 news on the AUSXIP Spartacus Season 2 news page     20 February 2011 Gods of the Arena The Bitter End Video Promos EP & Writer Steven S. DeKnight Introduces Finale Gods of the Arena Posted on: 20th February 2011 Executive Producer / Writer Steven S. DeKnight Introduces the finale. Friday Feb 25th at 10pm e/p on Starz Gods of the Arena Episode 6: The Bitter End Batiatus seeks vengeance for all that has befallen him and retains his gladiators and Solonius in the cause. The opening of the new arena arrives, promising a spectacle [...] E6 The Bitter End - Gods of the Arena Posted on: 20th February 2011 Batiatus seeks vengeance for all that has befallen him and retains his gladiators and Solonius in the cause. The opening of the new arena arrives, promising a spectacle of combat and blood. Friday Feb 25th at 10pm e/p on Starz     19 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 6: The Bitter End Preview & Episode Stills Gods of the Arena Episode 6: The Bitter End Batiatus seeks vengeance for all that has befallen him and retains his gladiators and Solonius in the cause. The opening of the new arena arrives, promising a spectacle of combat and blood.   Credits | Official Page | Episode Stills | Watch Promo     19 February 2011 Peter Mensah is Doctore Of The House - Assignment X Interview 18 February 2011 Exclusive Interview: SPARTACUS: GODS OF THE ARENA star Peter Mensah is Doctore of the house The actor sees the softer side of Doctore for the prequel and looks forward to the future of the series SPARTACUS: GODS OF THE ARENA only has two episodes to go, but fans of the series can rejoice that season two of the first series, is heading back into production. One of the main characters, who has the good fortune to not only survive the first season, be part of the prequel series, and return for the second season is Doctore played by accomplished actor Peter Mensah. Mensah’s gleaming smile and charm are something that he doesn’t get to use in abundance on the series, but with the prequel he has gotten to play the softer side of his character. While he was at the Television Critics Association in January, ASSIGNMENT X caught up with the actor to find out more about Doctore’s past and what directions the future might take. Read Interview -- AUSXIP Reporter Klippart     19 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 5 Reckoning Recap Maureen Ryan from TVSquad has recapped Episode 5: Reckoning. If you are keeping spoiler free - don't read further! 'Spartacus: Gods of the Arena' Prequel Season, Episode 5 Recap by Maureen Ryan It makes sense that the fifth episode of this prequel season would be the most compelling one yet. It took four or five episodes for 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand' to fully gel, and while 'Gods of the Arena' didn't have the same pacing or tone issues that the first season did when it began, 'Blood and Sand' still needed time to build up the stakes for the characters. The stakes were high in the melancholy, wonderfully crafted 'Reckoning,' and many characters were forced to make difficult, if not tragic, choices. What added to the pathos was the fact that the characters knew the prices they'd be paying for those choices -- up to a point. Lucretia couldn't know how much damage she'd do by poisoning Titus' wine, but by now, she should know that pursuing vengeance always brings unintended consequences. Read More     19 February 2011 Official Announcement from Lesley-Ann Brandt About Spartacus The following is from Lesley-Ann regarding Spartacus and is her official announcement: As it stands today no agreement has been made and I am sad that we couldn't make it happen. My role as Naevia and Spartacus was truly an amazing adventure and a joy to play. I hope Starz is able to come back and allow me to complete Naevia's journey. I know the on screen chemistry I had with Manu does not come along often. To date, Starz and the production team have been wonderful to me and I wish them every success with the show should we not reach an agreement. thanks!     18 February 2011 Lesley-Ann Responds To Deadline News Of Her Not Returning For Season 2 The following was posted on Lesley-Ann's official Facebook Fan Page. What we know is that Starz and Lesley-Ann's management are are talking and that's the main thing. Message from Lesley-Ann: Hey, some of u may have read I may not return to the show. No decisions have been made. This is not an issue of finances but more to do with what's best for my career. My team are working with Starz on this & as soon as I know, you will too. Straight from the horses mouth. Thanks for your continued support, u guys are the best fans ever! xxx     18 February 2011 Back Stage Interviews Lucy Lawless - The Warrior 17 February 2011 The Warrior 'Xena' star Lucy Lawless steps back into the sandals for 'Spartacus.' Lucy Lawless doesn't mind being typecast. The actor, who became a household name thanks to the 1995-2001 TV series "Xena: Warrior Princess" and who can currently be seen on Starz's "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena," admits that playing Xena may have pigeonholed her into repeatedly being cast as the warrior in period pieces. But, the New Zealand-born Lawless notes, "What am I going to complain about? How many actresses work as much as me?" Read More -- AUSXIP Reporter Klippart     18 February 2011 Lesley-Ann Brandt To Leave Spartacus - Deadline Exclusive Deadline has revealed that Lesley-Ann Brandt has decided to move on from Spartacus. No official word from Lesley-Ann yet but here is deadline's news: Lesley-Ann Brandt To Leave Starz's 'Spartacus', Role Of Naevia Will Be Reacst Spartacus will not be the only recast role on the second season of Starz's flagship series Spartacus: Blood and Sand. I hear Lesley-Ann Brandt, who played Naevia, body slave to Lucretia (Lucy Lawless) and lover of Crixus (Manu Bennett) on the first season of the show and in the prequel, Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, has decided not to renew her contract and won't return for season 2. She just started a recurring role on CSI: NY and opted to also pursue broadcast pilots, which are currently casting. The part of Naevia, a fan favorite, will now be recast. Read More     17 February 2011 GotA Episode 5 Clip - Competition For Truth Worth E5 Competition for True Worth - Gods of the Arena Posted on: 17th February 2011 From ep 5 "Reckoning". Feb 18th 10pm e/p on Starz. Titus Batiatus organises a competition where the winners remain gladiators of the Batiatus Ludus and the losers are sent to the mines.     17 February 2011 This Week's Draw Them All Spartacus Comic Strips - Episode 4 This week's Draw Them All Spartacus comic strips by Olansameulle is based on the Gods of the Arene Episode 4: Beneath the Mask. The one that really cracked me up this morning was "Red" - It's simple but hysterically funny. Click here to view the artwork     16 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 4: Beneath The Mask Ratings The ratings for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Episode 4: Beneath The Mask have been released. TVbythenumbers is reporting: Spartacus: Gods of the Arena averaged 1.112 million viewers and a 0.5 rating in adults 18-49, down 0.1 from last week.   EPISODE # and Name Rating Ep 1: Past Transgressions 1.1 Million Ep 2: Missio Ep 3: Paterfamilias Ep 4: Beneath The Mask 1.1 Million 1.264 Million 1.112 million     16 February 2011 Interview with Dustin Clare of Spartaucs - CableFax 15 Feb 2011 An Interview with Dustin Clare of "Spartacus" on Starz By Michael Grebb In the last part of our Web series focusing on the creative minds behind Starz’s “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena,” we sat down with Aussie actor Dustin Clare, who has joined the cast as the double-sword wielding, alpha gladiator Gannicus in the prequel series. He gives us perspective on the training involved, his passion for acting and why he’d rather die than spend too long on a TV series. Read Interview -- AUSXIP Reporter Klippart     16 February 2011 Spartacus: Gods of the Arena in the UK 21 March The UK is about to be hit with Sparty fever - Spartacus: Gods of the Arena will premiere in the UK on 21 March on Sky. The official site reports: Hitting Sky1 HD screens on Monday 21st March is the highly anticipated sequel to Spartacus: Blood and Sand is Spartacus: Gods of the Arena. Visit the Official Spartacus Gods of the Arena UK site -- AUSXIP Reporter Barbara Davies     16 February 2011 Spartacus: Blood and Sand in Italy - Promo Video For our Italian Sparty friends, 17 February sees the premiere of Spartacus: Blood and Sand. Barbara Bruno sent me the link to the Italian promo (Spartacus spoken as if in Capua! <g>)       15 February 2011 Spartacus Gods of the Arena Trading Cards Scans Added scans of 10 cards - front and back (the back briefly outlines the character). These cards are not the Rittenhouse Archives cards but were collectors cards given out as part of Spartacus PR. The cards are: Ashur, Barca, Batiatus, Crixus, Gaia, Gannicus, Lucretia, Melitta, Oenomaus and Solonius. Scanned by Lori Click here to view all 10     15 February 2011 Spartacus Season 2 Casting Call Character faces, amputees, weathered people needed for Spartacus - Auckland Spartacus is looking for people that look like they've lived a life Casting no. 217036 All regions, NZ Spartacus is looking for amputees, character faces, weathered people, and unique looking people for extra and featured roles in the new series of Spartacus. Location: All regions, New Zealand Payment details: paid Fee details: KAM Talent Sign-Up fees Applications to this casting call require: •A phone number •A profile photo Characters Any gender, aged 18 to 99 from New Zealand Listing created: 14 February 2011 Applications accepted for at least another month -- AUSXIP Reporter: Barbara Davies     15 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 5 Reckoning Episode Still E5 Reckoning Episode Stills - Spartacus Gods of the Arena Ep 5 Reckoning Preview“ Batiatus' father announces a tournament to determine the worth of the men that make up his stable of gladiators. Crixus, dedicated to proving himself, is drawn into the power play within the house. Friday Feb 18 at 10pm e/p on Starz Credits | Official Page | Episode Stills | Episode Promos     14 February 2011 Gods of the Arena High Resolution Episode Stills For Episode 4 Updated the Gods of the Arena Episode Stills gallery with 5 high resolution images from episode 4: Behind The Mask Click here to view     13 February 2011 Lucy Lawless Channels Iconic Star - Herald on Sunday 13 February 2011 Herald on Sunday 13 February 2011 has a brief mention of Lucy (see scan) on the left. Lucy Lawless Channels Iconic Star - Herald on Sunday 13 February 2011 Snapped outside the studio of The Wendy Williams Show in New York recently, where she had taped a promotional segment, Lucy Lawless channelled iconic Faye Dunaway from the classic film Bonnie and Clyde in which the veteran Hollywood star sported a beret and glossy mane. This week, Lawless was at the annual Winter TCA press junket in California promoting Spartacus.     13 February 2011 TV Guide Video Interview with Dustin Clare 10 February 2011 Dustin Clare tells TVGuide.com what it's like to play the new gladiator on the block on Starz's Spartacus: Gods of the Arena. He also weighs in on what gives him the most performance anxiety (the fight scenes or the sex scenes), Gannicus' lack of autonomy in ancient Rome and the latest mischief to expect from the House of Batiatus in the fourth episode, airing Friday at 10/9c. Check it out. How do you like the new guy? Watch Video     13 February 2011 Episode 5 Reckoning Video Promo E5 Reckoning – Spartacus Gods of the Arena Posted on: 13th February 2011 Ep 5 “Reckoning” Preview – Batiatus’ father announces a tournament to determine the worth of the men that make up his stable of gladiators. Crixus, dedicated to proving himself, is drawn into the power play within the house. Friday Feb 18 at 10pm e/p on Starz     13 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 4 Recap by TVSquad 'Spartacus: Gods of the Arena' Prequel Season, Episode 4 Recap by Maureen Ryan Now that, my friends, was a toga party. They knew how to throw crazy bashes back in the day. But for Lucretia and Batiatus (and their friend Gaia), as day turned to night, the buzz wore off and things went from bad to worse. Read Full Review I really liked Maureen's mention of Lucy as Lucretia here: (highlight the grey box to get to the quote - for those keeping spoiler free..don't highlight) Can Tullius get away with killing a Roman citizen in cold blood? He may be able to. He may not have left Batiatus with many options. But the look in Lucretia's eye says that Tullius is not long for this world. After all, she's got quite the backbone: She threatened Melitta and hinted that she might reveal the secret about her sex with Gannicus if she didn't get everyone to keep their traps shut about the party.     13 February 2011 Nick Tarabay Questions Needed For Interview Nick Tarabay is answering fan questions! Submit yours now! The best questions will be chosen and sent to Nick!   Click here to submit your question     12 February 2011 Spartacus Gods of the Arena Behind The Scenes Pics Lesley-Ann has posted on her Official Facebook Fan Page pics of her and other cast from Gods of the Arena Click here to view     12 February 2011 New Spartacus Draw Them All Comic Strips For Episode 3 Olansamuelle has sent in two new Draw Them All Spartacus Gods of the Arena comic strips for Episode 3   Click here to view     12 February 2011 Assignment X Interview with Dustin Clare 11 February 2011 Assignment X Interview - Exclusive Interview: SPARTACUS star Dustin Clare is one of the GODS OF THE ARENA The actor talks about playing this season's star gladiator In SPARTACUS: GODS OF THE ARENA, the prequel series to Starz’s SPARTACUS, Australian actor Dustin Clare plays Gannicus, the star righter among the gladiatorial troupe of the House of Batiatus. We didn’t see this character in last year’s SPARTACUS: BLOOD AND SAND, but Clare suggests we may see him again after this season in our exclusive interview. Read Interview -- AUSXIP Reporter: Klippart     11 February 2011 Jaime Murray Dons Her Goddess Garb for the Arena - Venice Magazine "As an actor, you have to be able to play and keep the creativity of a child," says Jaime Murray, reflecting on her decision to leave the London School of Economics to study acting at the Drama Centre London. "I was studying philosophy and psychology and I think that, academically, these subjects are as close to acting as you can get. The enjoyment that comes from performing and being creative in a childlike way just drew me into acting. I think we're all really just big children, aren't we?" Read on... The website suggests there was a photoshoot... Anyone with scans? Also, does this mean that Jaime is destined to guest star on S3 of Venice: The Series?     10 February 2011 Blood, Starz, Sex and CGI Magic - Interview with Steven DeKnight Spartacus: Gods of the Arena's Steven DeKnight faces the challenge of losing his lead actor and takes on critics of the show's hyper-violent, highly sexual content. Written by Denis Faye When Steven DeKnight decided to bring the tale of the world's most famous gladiator to the small screen, he probably had no idea that he'd be facing challenges worthy of Spartacus himself. First, he had to recreate Rome with a "less than Romanesque" budget. The solution came in the form of fellow executive producer Rob Tapert, who's worked similar sword-and-sandal shows such as Hercules and Xena: Warrior Princess. Tapert runs production where the show is filmed down in New Zealand and has a knack, as DeKnight puts it, for "making one million dollars look like four million." The next hurdle was facing criticism over the show's hyper-violent, highly sexual content. Given it appears on Starz, a pay cable channel, Standards and Practices doesn't really play a role in the creative process. "I certainly make no apologies," shrugs DeKnight, whose previous writing-producing credits include Angel, Smallville, and Dollhouse. "It's not everybody's cup of tea, I understand that, but for adults who want an adult story and adult entertainment, it's perfectly fine." Finally, and most tragically, the showrunner had to keep things together when Spartacus: Blood and Sand's lead actor, Andy Whitfield, was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. "It was absolutely devastating," says DeKnight, "foremost on an emotional level. He's a fantastic human being." As a quick fix while Whitfield was undergoing treatment, DeKnight came up with a prequel mini-series to keep the show alive. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena starts its six-episode run on Starz this month. But then Whitfield decided to pull himself permanently from the series to continue treatment and spend time with his family, so for the second full season, Australian actor Liam McIntyre has stepped into Whitfield's sandals. While Whitfield's departure was a blow to morale in the writer's room, it didn't have a big effect on the scripts. "When McIntyre steps into the role, and we start to see footage on him, there may be minor adjustments," explains DeKnight, "but we're writing Spartacus as Spartacus." DeKnight spoke with The Writer's Guild of America, West Web site about all the challenges of showrunning Spartacus. Even though some battles have been tough, this is clearly a writer willing to take on every comer in the arena. Read More     10 February 2011 Lucy Lawless Video Interview with Better TV 09 February 2011 Lucy was interviewed for Better TV about Spartacus Gods of the Arena. I can't get the video to work for me (for some reason) Better.TV Interviews Lucy Lawless 9 February 2011 Posted on: 10th February 2011 Lucy was interviewed for Better TV about Spartacus Gods of the Arena. Lesley sits down with this star of Spartacus to find out her thoughts on the sizzling hot series. -- AUSXIP Reporter Klippart     10 February 2011 Coffee With Lucy Lawess - Don and Marty in Baltimore 09 Feb 2011 Lucy's interview with Don and Marty from CBS Baltimore has been posted to the AUSXIP Lucy Lawless Video Channel. Coffee With Lucy Lawless – Don and Marty 09 February 2011 Posted on: 10th February 2011 BALTIMORE (WJZ) Don and Marty talked to actress Lucy Lawless about her new role in “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena” This video was conducted around 21 January 2011 when Lucy was doing her Spartacus PR. The video was shown on CBS Baltimore on 9 February 2011. For more Lucy interviews go to AUSXIP Lucy Lawless Interviews subsite -- News submitted by Pat     9 February 2011 Hottest Legendary Warriors - Number 5 Andy Whitfield as Spartacus The Wonderwall on MSN has a countdown of all the legendary warriors and Andy comes in #5 5. Spartacus Portrayed By: Andy Whitfield in the TV series "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" Origin: Legendary Thracian gladiator who led a slave uprising against the Roman republic. You can't be an average Joe when your role calls for constant barechestedness and sword swinging. Though Whitfield's illness caused him to be replaced in next season's "Spartacus," we expect he'll fight his cancer with the same strength as Spartacus himself. Source -- News submitted by Heather     9 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 3: Paterfamilias Ratings The ratings for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Episode 3: Paterfamilias have been released. It's gone up a smidgen to 1.264 from 1.1 Million - Source is TVbythenumbers   EPISODE #  and Name Rating     Ep 1: Past Transgressions 1.1 Million Ep 2: Missio Ep 3: Paterfamilias 1.1 Million 1.264 Million     9 February 2011 Upcoming Lucy Lawless Interview Spartacus PR - 9 February 2011 The following was posted on CBS Baltimore site for the show Don and Marty. Here’s what Don and Marty have in store for Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011. Coffee With: Don and Marty will be talking to actress Lucy Lawless about her new role in “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena.” Source -- AUSXIP Reporter Barbara Davies     8 February 2011 A Moment of Prayer, Thoughts & Wishes For Those With Cancer Luna Duvall from the Andy Whitfield Facebook Fan Page sent me a note that I would like to pass on: Andy's fan page is organising a moment of prayer, thoughts and wishes for Andy and all those with cancer. It'll be Sunday 13 February at 9pm GMT (early Monday morning in Australia) - times for other countries are including in the event info. Please go here for more information     8 February 2011 Lucy Lawless Article Scan - NZ TV Guide 5-11 Feb 2011 Lucy is featured in the New Zealand TV Guide 5-11 Feb 2011 issue about coming back for Season 2 of Spartacus Click on the thumbnail for the larger scan Scanned by Jo     8 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode Stills for Episode 4 E4 Beheath The Mask – Gods of the Arena The House of Batiatus is caught in the power struggle between the younger and elder Batiatus. Lucretia reluctantly agrees to her husband’s risky plan. Gannicus finds himself on unstable ground. Friday Feb 11 at 10pm e/p on Starz View Episode Stills Credits | Official Page | Episode Promos     7 February 2011 The Incredible Lucy Lawless and The Younger Lucretia Daemon's TV has a write up about Episode 2 Missio but it's the part in their review about Lucy that I found to be in sync with my feelings about Lucy's portrayal of Lucretia. I wasn't too sure how Lucy was going to play Lucretia (the younger Lucretia) since we all had an idea of what Lucretia had become (personally I don't hate the B&S Lucretia..I think she's really a very sad and lonely woman even though her husband loves her and she was horizontal dancing with Crixus. I actually liked her but then I like all the bad girls Lucy plays). Lucy as the younger Lucretia is INCREDIBLE. Lucy is enjoying this character so much. Check out Daemons TV's comments below One person who has also impressed the hell out of me is Lucy Lawless. This prequel Lucretia is filled with all sorts of shifting, conflicted emotions, and Lawless lets us see them all. This Lucretia is not as hard-edged (or crazy) as the B&S Lucretia, and Lawless plays her with a younger spirit. It’s not just the makeup, hair, and wardrobe departments taking what appear to be nearly ten years off her age. She’s doing it with body language and with her eyes. Never have I seen such uncertainty from a Lucy Lawless character. (I actually thought she was on the downslide after her forgettable turn on Battlestar Galactica, but color me incorrect, and until she disappoints I am now going to refer to her as Lucy Flawless!) I can’t wait to see more development as she hurtles toward the Lucretia we know and hate. Read full review -- Barbara Davies & MaryD     7 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 3 Review - TV Squad 'Spartacus: Gods of the Arena' Prequel Season, Episode 3 Recap by Maureen Ryan TV Squad The superficial reputation of 'Spartacus' among those who haven't paid close attention to the show is that it's merely a toga-era soap opera drenched in sex, blood and more sex. Sure, it has all those elements, many of which can be counted on for good, unclean fun. But there are emotional stakes to most battles and bedroom encounters. And as 'Paterfamilias' showed, sometimes sex can be used as a weapon, and those encounters, when choice is removed, can be uglier than anything seen in the arena. Read More     6 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 4: Beneath The Mask Episode Promo Added the new promo for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Episode 4! E4 Beheath The Mask – Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Posted on: 6th February 2011 Ep 4 “Beneath The Mask” Preview – The House of Batiatus is caught in the power struggle between the younger and elder Batiatus. Lucretia reluctantly agrees to her husband’s risky plan. Gannicus finds himself on unstable ground. Friday Feb 11 at 10pm e/p on Starz http://www.starz.com/spartacus     6 February 2011 Rittenhouse Archive Spartacus Blood and Sand Trading Cards - Sura Cards Erin has tweeted about the Rittenhouse Archives Spartacus: Blood and Sand Trading Cards. Erin Tweet: Laying in bed, signing 2000 Sura trading cards. You'll be able to buy them here: http:/bit.ly/gndvGs #Spartacus http://plixi.com/p/74994080 Rittenhouse Archives Spartacus Blood and Sand Trading Cards will be available from 6 April 2011 and they are limited. You can buy them at $50 or $750 for a case. You can find out more info about the cards and what you can expect by reading about them here. Related Posts - Rittenhouse Archives Spartacus Blood and Sand Trading Cards - Order Online     5 February 2011 Spartacus Draw Them All Comic Strip - Episode 2 Missio by Olansamuelle Posted two Draw Them All comic strips by Olansamuelle related to Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Episode 2: Missio We had a technical glitch (aka the email took the scenic route to get to me) and the strips were not posted early in the week as per normal scheduling.   Strip #1 is: Missio My Ass Strip #2 is: Melitta's Wisdom   You can view Olansamuelle's fantastic Draw Them All Series by clicking here     4 February 2011 New Videos to AUSXIP Spartacus Video Channel Posted three new videos to the AUSXIP Spartacus Video Channel - one is a character profile on Oenomaus and the other two are Episode 3 promos. Character Profile: Oenomaus – Spartacus Gods of the Arena Posted on: 4th February 2011 Having only recently survived his fight with the legendary Theokoles. Oenomaus longs to return to the sands of the arena and reclaim the title of champion. E3 “Paterfamilias” Melitta Consoles Doctore Gods of the Arena Posted on: 4th February 2011 Gods of the Arena – Melitta Consoles Oenomaus on his new role as Doctore of the Ludus after he defeated the old Doctore. E3 “Paterfamilias” – True Test of a Man Gods of the Arena Posted on: 4th February 2011 Gannicus and Crixus Just as his fortunes are on the rise, his future clear before him, Batiatus is stunned by the return of his father which puts his attempts to gain rank by exploiting those above his class at risk. **Directed by Michael Hurst**     4 February 2011 Rittenhouse Archive Spartacus Blood and Sand Trading Cards - Naevia Card Lesley-Ann has received her Naevia card from Rittenhouse Archive. Here is a copy of the card. Lesley-Ann was to autograph them to ship back to Rittenhouse. Rittenhouse Archives Spartacus Blood and Sand Trading Cards will be available from 6 April 2011 and they are limited. You can buy them at $50 or $750 for a case. You can find out more info about the cards and what you can expect by reading about them here. Related Posts - Rittenhouse Archives Spartacus Blood and Sand Trading Cards - Order Online     4 February 2011 Lucy Lawless Never Liked Being An Action Heroine - Starpulse 4 Feb 2011 Lucy Lawless Reveals She Never Liked Being An Action Heroine February 4th, 2011 12:40am EST This may come as a surprise to Xena fans. Lucy Lawless, who played the legendary heroine for six years, reveals she never liked being a tough girl. “Yes, I hated it,” Lawless said. “Hated it, but I wasn’t in a position to say no. Very quickly I realized I can’t be cringing every time they come and say, ‘Lucy, would you like to go and learn your next fight?’ I haven’t even finished filming the last one and I have to go learn the next. I said, ‘You know what you guys? Instead of asking me would you like to, just say: Lucy, fight’s up.’ Then it doesn’t require a response. It just requires me to do what I’m told. But if they say ‘would you like to?’ it makes me think, ‘No, I f***ing hate that stuff and if I have a choice, I don’t want to go.’ So we very quickly realized that it’s better to talk to Lucy, just give her an order and she’ll do it without thinking.” Lawless now stars on the Starz series Spartacus, but she doesn’t have to worry about any of the action. Her character, Lucretia, manipulates the gladiators outside of the arena. “It’s a completely different side of the show. It’s the upstairs/downstairs of it. I’d forgotten about all that stuff and I’d be horrified if I had to that. In this role, I suppose she did slap a slave around last season, didn’t she? No, that’s not part of her thought process. She’s not a physical person at all and I love that about her.” Spartacus: Gods of the Arena is airing Fridays on Starz. Source - AUSXIP Reporter: Barbara Davies     4 February 2011 Lucy in NZ TV Guide 5-11 February 2011 - Lucy on Spartacus Season 2 News The latest issue of the NZ TV Guide (5-11 February 2011 issue) has a brief blurb on Lucy with a pic of Lucy as Lucretia (Season 1) about her returning to Season 2 of Spartacus and how that is going to be achieved. Scan to be posted shortly. -- AUSXIP Reporter Jo     3 February 2011 Gods of the Arena DVD & Blu Ray - Bonus Goodies Spartacus Production is currently putting together the “Bonus Features” section of the "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena" DVD and Blu-Ray releases. Please let us know what special features you’d like to see included and we may be able to make it happen. Click here to submit your requests     3 February 2011 Spartacus Blood and Sand in India 5 Feb 2011 HBO, the channel you can rely upon for your daily dose of English entertainment, brings you a brand new blockbuster series that will keep you glued to your television screens and leave you asking for more. Watch the legend of Spartacus, written in blood, come alive as HBO presents, for the first time on Indian television, SPARTACUS: BLOOD AND SAND, a graphic series that is visually thrilling and viscerally satisfying. SPARTACUS: BLOOD AND SAND, premieres in India on Saturday, 5th February, 2011, at 11 pm, with new episodes every Saturday after the 9 pm movie, only on HBO! Read More -- News by @michaelhurstnow on twitter     3 February 2011 Assignment X Interviews Steven DeKnight Part 2 In Part Two of our exclusive interview, SPARTACUS: GODS OF THE ARENA creator/showrunner Steven S. DeKnight talks about casting, nudity, sword fights, working around the illness of leading man Andy Whitfield and what we can expect next year. The limited series airs Friday nights on Starz. ASSIGNMENT X: When you first conceived of doing SPARTACUS, were any of the characters written with any specific performers in mind? DeKNIGHT: No, we figured out the characters and then the actors came in [to audition]. Often we’d have a preconceived idea of who that character is physically, and an actor would come in with a look that we hadn’t considered, but he just really nailed the character. Read More You can also read Part 1 of the interview here     3 February 2011 10 Question For Steven Answered On Official Forum Steven DeKnight has taken time out to answer the following questions: How much consultation, access, or input do you have from historians? I am curious about what kind of feedback about accuracy you may have gotten. What made you boldly push the envelope with more and more full-frontal nudity and strong sexual acts in spite of today's political climate of censor groups and religious watchdogs? Would you consider an alternative ending for the Spartacus story line than the historical account? Would we see other major historical gladiators/Romans (ex: Leonidas, Alexander, Maximus, etc.) fight or make an appearance with Spartacus? How are you planning to have more strong roles for actresses in that next phase of the show? Why did you have to kill Varro so soon?  Weren't there enough plot twists that could act as a catalyst for Sparty's rebellion and S2 focus on vengeance?  More than any "death" to date, this one has turned the fanbase on its head! Do any writers read these boards to get a feel of what the community is seeing in each episode and the direction of the characters?  If the answer is yes, how much rewriting of the second season is/has taken place?  If characters have been rewritten, which ones and why? How is the storyline for a season developed?  Do you start with the main characters and develop a plot line for them or a basic story outline and add in detail?  Have you modified the story during the filming of the season after watching and testing the initial episodes or stick with the plan? Will we see the series take a more mythological turn in the future, with monsters and such, like in 300? Thank you so much for giving a non-monochromatic / heterogeneous view of the ancient world and its inhabitants. Will we continue to see a diverse cast as the series moves towards other locales and action?  Read the answers here     2 February 2011 Spartacus The Game on Facebook - Start Your Own Ludus! The latest from the Official Spartacus Twitter Account about the Facebook Spartacus Game Become a lanista, start your own ludus, then assemble, train and fight your gladiators Click here for more on Facebook More info on the Game from the Hollywood Reporter 1 January 2011 Starz's digital media unit is trying its hand at its first Facebook social media game tied to the premium TV service's Spartacus franchise, making it one of the first major TV properties to get a social game. The company will also launch an iPad script app that will present Spartacus episode scripts with video and commentary, director's notes, cast photos, historical background information and more. The free Spartacus: Gods of the Arena game -- which works similar to such hit social games as Mafia Wars that have become one of the red-hot areas of the entertainment industry -- will launch in limited beta on Thursday to the first 10,000 fans who register on Facebook. The full public launch will happen Jan. 20, a day before the Starz TV debut of the Spartacus prequel, which has the same name as the game. Social media gaming publisher 6waves -- which, with more than 75 million monthly active users, is one of the largest players in the space -- will help Starz launch the game. Starz hopes to use the game, one of the first social games based on a hit TV show, to further engage and immerse existing fans and possibly reach new ones, as well as make money via the sale of virtual goods inside the game.     2 February 2011 Spartacus Blog - Second Class Citizens & Gaia The following is from the Official Spartacus Blog about women in the Roman Empire and in particular Gaia - who wasn't a Roman woman and why she was able to do the things she does! As Greek culture and society developed, isolated groups and urban centers gradually developed into what the Greeks called poleis, or city-states. Often these city-states were formed by disparate groups of people, sharing little in common beyond language and the proximity of where they lived, yet over time these groups found ways to work with one another and form a new community within the city-state. The relationship found its expression in the concept of “citizenship”, the underlying idea being that the individual owed services to the community, whether in the form of holding offices or beautifying the city or serving in the military, and in turn the community would protect the person and rights of the individual. Citizenship was closely guarded among the Greek city-states, and was only extended to those who were children of at least one citizen, sometimes two. Citizenship could not be earned; there was no “test” or “procedure” to go through to become a citizen of Athens or Sparta. You were either a member of the community, or you were not. As with many other aspects of their culture, the Romans adopted this idea of citizenship from the Greeks and, like many other things they borrowed from the Greeks, they put their own spin on it. Early on, Romans were willing to extend citizenship to individuals, groups, tribes, even whole nations of people. It was, according to the Emperor Claudius, the greatest strength of the Roman people that they were willing to bring in to their community the best and brightest, were willing to continually evolve and adapt, and accept that other groups may have as much if not more to offer Rome than those who simply happened to have been born there. Nor were citizenship rights uniformly dispersed in a haphazard way; the Romans broke the concept of citizenship into several different rights that could be extended as one lump or piecemeal. These rights included the right to vote in Roman assemblies (ius suffragium), the right to serve in public office (ius officium), the right to hold property (ius commercii), and finally, the right to contract an official Roman marriage, draft a will, and transfer property (ius conubium). In creating the character of Gaia in the prequel series, those “in the know” will immediately recognize that “Gaia” is not a valid Roman name for a woman; this is, in fact, because she is not a full Roman, to her advantage and disadvantage. If she were a full Roman, she would not be able to take off across the countryside and visit with Batiatus and Lucretia, and we would be utterly deprived of her company. She would have to be under the control of a male relative, or in manu to use the Latin parlance. In the Roman mind, women were like children, in constant need of guidance and direction from their more astute and intelligent male companions; to let a woman go off somewhere on her own was tantamount to unleashing an unsupervised three year old on a candy store. Read More     2 February 2011 Men's Health Workout With Bev Ratcliff and Lucy, Peter, Katrina, Lesley-Ann Back in January 2010 when the Spartacus cast was doing their first Spartacus PR for Season 1, they had a workout with trainer Bev and Men's Health - we reported on the cast and their workout here You can now watch more video of this session on Bev Ratcliff's site Click here to view     2 February 2011 Gods of the Arena in the UK In March Following up our earlier report of Gods of the Arena in the UK Delayed - Luna sent me the following note with more information: There doesn't seem to be anything official on Sky's website yet, but SkyHome page tweeted today "Spartacus: Gods Of The Arena will begin on Monday 21st March"     1 February 2011 Upcoming Lesley-Ann Interview Questions Required The Hungarian Spartacus site “The Bringer of Rain” will be interviewing Lesley-Ann. You can now submit your questions. If you would like to submit your question, go here – you have until 5 February 2011 to get your questions submitted.     1 February 2011 Gods of the Arena Episode 2 Ratings Update The ratings for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena Episode 2: Missio has been released. EW reports that Spartacus held last week's record premiere high of 1.1 million viewers (0.5).   EPISODE #  and Name Rating     Ep 1: Past Transgressions 1.1 Million Ep 2: Missio 1.1 Million     1 February 2011 Gods of the Arena in the UK Delayed For UK fans the news is not all that good this morning. It seems that Gods of the Arena will not be shown in February as previously announced. Still no official announcement by Sky. But the Radio Times website confirms that there is no Spartacus airing in the original rumoured slot of Feb 7th at 10pm: The following is from Dan’s Media Digest: Spartacus: Gods Of The Arena, the six-part prequel to Spartacus: Blood & Sand, will be broadcast on Sky1 in the third week of March. The latter delay is annoying, as the Starz miniseries was scheduled for 7 February (four weeks behind the US), whereas now it'll be over by the time Sky1 start airing it. Still, to keep positive, at least it's not a Sky Atlantic exclusive. -- Barbara Davies     Read More Archives