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Spartacus star dies at 39


Andy Whitfield, the British star of 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand', has died at the age of 39.

The actor died yesterday in Sydney, Australia, following a battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

In a statement, his wife said: "On a beautiful sunny Sydney spring morning, surrounded by his family, in the arms of his loving wife, our beautiful young warrior Andy Whitfield lost his 18-month battle with lymphoma cancer.

"He passed peacefully surrounded by love. Thank you to all his fans whose love and support have helped carry him to this point. He will be remembered as the inspiring, courageous and gentle man, father and husband he was."

Whitfield was born in Wales in 1972 and moved to Australia in 1999. He appeared in several Australian TV series including 'All Saints' and 'The Strip' before finding fame in the title role in 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand'.

Chris Albrecht, president of US network Starz, who produce the controversial drama, said: "We were fortunate to have worked with Andy in Spartacus and came to know that the man who played a champion on-screen was also a champion in his own life.

"Andy was an inspiration to all of us as he faced this very personal battle with courage, strength and grace."