‘Spartacus’ Star Has Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

First Published: March 10, 2010 12:18 PM EST Credit: Getty Images

NEW YORK, N.Y. -- Caption Andy Whitfield arrives at the InStyle and Warner Bros. 67th Annual Golden Globes after party held at the Oasis Courtyard at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, CaliforniaAndy Whitfield, who plays the title role in the Starz Original series “Spartacus: Blood and Sand,” has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The British-born actor will begin treatment immediately.

The network says the cancer was discovered during a routine checkup as the 38-year-old Whitfield prepared to begin shooting the second season of the action-adventure series, which is filmed in New Zealand.

Starz said Tuesday that production has been postponed while Whitfield undergoes treatment.

According to the network, doctors say the cancer was detected in its early stages and is “very treatable.”

“Spartacus” is based on the slave and folk hero from the 1st century B.C. The show has been a breakout success for Starz since it premiered in January. The first season concludes nextmonth.

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