'Spartacus' to end revolutionary run next season

[June 05, 2012]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Starz network says it is ending its highly successful "Spartacus" saga next season.

In an unusual move announced Monday, Starz will conclude this action-adventure series while it's still a big hit, and after logging only three seasons (or four, counting a "prequel" season). This season the series drew six million viewers, an enormous number for a paid subscription channel.

Creator-executive producer Steven S. DeKnight promises a "stunningly epic" final season.

That 10-episode cycle, which will kick off next January, is currently filming in New Zealand.

The series stars Liam McIntyre as the Thracian-slave-turned-revolutionary who's out to topple the Roman Empire. McIntyre took over the role from Andy Whitfield, who starred the first season, then withdrew due to illness. He died of cancer in September 2011.

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Online:

http://www.starz.com/

[Associated Press]

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