Sad news on a sad day: Andy Whitfield has died from non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. The 39-year-old actor, best known for his portrayal of Spartacus in the Starz series “Spartacus: Blood and Sand,” passed away this morning in Sydney, Australia with his wife by his side.

Whitfield was set to begin work on season two of the hit show when he was diagnosed with the disease, 18 months ago. Starz produced and aired the spinoff series “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena” with the hope that Whitfield would recover and return to the show.

Unfortunately, Whitfield would not return. He was replaced in January by fellow Aussie Liam McIntyre after stepping down from the show for good.

Rest in Peace, Andy.