Spartacus: Blood and Sand (2010)

Spartacus: Blood and Sand (2010) is a historical drama series created by Steven S. DeKnight, and the first installment in the Spartacus franchise. The show is set in ancient Rome and follows the legendary Thracian gladiator Spartacus, portrayed by Andy Whitfield, as he rises from enslavement to become a powerful warrior and leader in the Roman gladiatorial arena.
The series begins with Spartacus being betrayed by the Romans and forced into slavery. He is trained as a gladiator in the ludus of Lentulus Batiatus (John Hannah) and his cunning wife, Lucretia (Lucy Lawless). Spartacus must fight not only for his survival but also to reunite with his beloved wife, Sura (Erin Cummings), all while navigating the political intrigues and brutal competitions of the Roman Empire.
Spartacus: Blood and Sand is known for its graphic violence, intense action sequences, and stylized visual effects, but also for its exploration of loyalty, power, and freedom. It gained a large fanbase due to its raw portrayal of ancient Rome, compelling characters, and complex plots of betrayal and vengeance.
Andy Whitfield’s performance as Spartacus was widely praised, but after the first season, he was diagnosed with cancer and tragically passed away in 2011. The series continued with a prequel (Gods of the Arena) and two additional seasons (Spartacus: Vengeance and Spartacus: War of the Damned), with Liam McIntyre taking over the role of Spartacus.