Andy Whitfield, who is remembered for playing the title role in the hit Starz series ‘Spartacus: Blood and Sand,’ has died at age 39, the Huffington Post is reporting. The actor died on September 11 in Sydney, Australia, a year-and-a-half after he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, his manager, Sam Maydew, has confirmed.

Whitfield’s wife Vashti released statement, saying her husband was surrounded by his family when he died. “He passed peacefully surrounded by love. Thank you to all his fans whose love and support have helped carry him to this point.” She added he will be remembered for being an “inspiring, courageous and gentle man, father and husband.”

The actor was a virtual unknown when he was cast as the Thracian slave in ‘Spartacus,’ which premiered in January 2010. The historical drama series became a break-out hit for Starz, and made headlines for its graphic violence and sexuality. Whitfield appeared in the first season’s 13 episodes, but was diagnosed with cancer while preparing to shoot the second season.

Starz decided to air a six-part prequel mini-series, ‘Spartacus: Gods of the Arena,’ which featured a brief voice-over from Whitfield, in January 2011, which was met with acclaim. The network was waiting for the actor’s treatment and expected recovery to resume ‘Blood and Sand,’ but when his condition grew worse, they decided to recast the role with Liam McIntyre.

Starz President and CEO and Chris Albrecht released a statement about Whitfield’s death, saying “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague. We are fortunate to have worked with (Andy) in ‘Spartacus.’”

Written by: Karen Benardello