The actors of Starz’s epic series Spartacus carved their names into television history with blood, sweat, and unforgettable performances. After the rebellion ended in 2013, the ensemble cast scattered to new projects, from blockbuster films to hit TV shows. This is where you’ve seen the stars of the brutal and beloved historical drama since they left the arena behind.
From Champion to Arrow’s Deadliest Assassin: Manu Bennett
As Crixus, the “Undefeated Gaul,” Manu Bennett was the heart of the rebellion alongside Spartacus. His performance transitioned seamlessly from arrogant champion to noble rebel leader. Following the series, Bennett became a major figure in two other massive franchises. He provided the physical performance and voice for the monstrous orc chieftain Azog the Defiler in Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit trilogy. He then brought one of DC Comics’ most formidable mercenaries to life as Slade Wilson, aka Deathstroke, in The CW’s Arrow. His portrayal of the complex villain, who shares a deep, fractured history with the hero Oliver Queen, is still celebrated by fans as one of the show’s best.
The Stalwart Doctore’s Commanding Presence: Peter Mensah
Peter Mensah brought immense gravitas to the role of Oenomaus, the honorable gladiator trainer known as Doctore. With his distinctive voice and commanding presence, he has remained a staple in science fiction and fantasy television. After Spartacus, Mensah appeared in series like Sleepy Hollow and Midnight, Texas. He also reunited with fellow cast member Lucy Lawless on Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., continuing his run as a reliable and powerful supporting actor.
The Connective Tissue of the Cast: Lucy Lawless
Already a global icon from Xena: Warrior Princess, Lucy Lawless masterfully portrayed the ambitious and cunning Lucretia. Her career after the series has been prolific and varied. She starred in the supernatural series Salem and returned to her horror roots in Bruce Campbell’s Ash vs Evil Dead. Lawless has also lent her voice to numerous animated projects and remains one of New Zealand’s most recognizable performers and advocates.
From Schemer to Super-Spy: John Hannah
As the ruthlessly ambitious lanista Quintus Lentulus Batiatus, John Hannah delivered a performance praised for its charm and cruel cunning. The Scottish actor returned to British television with roles in dramas like Trust Me. He also entered the Marvel Universe, appearing in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.. More recently, he has balanced film and stage work, maintaining the versatility he showcased in Capua.
A New Spartacus’ Journey: Liam McIntyre
Taking on the monumental role of Spartacus after Andy Whitfield’s tragic passing, Liam McIntyre earned respect for carrying the mantle with strength and dignity. He has since become a familiar face in genre television. McIntyre played Mark Mardon / Weather Wizard in The CW’s The Flash. He has also voiced characters in major video games like Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, keeping him connected to passionate fan communities.
From the Ludus to Major Action Roles
The Spartacus set proved to be a training ground for actors who would go on to significant action-oriented careers:
- Katrina Law (Mira): After her emotional turn as Spartacus’s lover Mira, Law joined the Arrowverse as the lethal Nyssa al Ghul in Arrow. She later secured leading roles in network procedurals, starring in Hawaii Five-0 and joining the main cast of NCIS.
- Nick E. Tarabay (Ashur): The actor who made the scheming Ashur so detestable has become a go-to for complex villainy. Tarabay appeared in Person of Interest, The Expanse, and also joined Arrow as a rival to Deathstroke. He has also done voice work for franchises like Halo.
- Ellen Hollman (Saxa): The fierce Germanic warrior Saxa was played by Hollman, who has continued in the action genre. She appeared in the stylized series Into the Badlands and had a role in The Matrix Resurrections, in addition to working in stunt training.
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Supporting Players in Spotlight Roles
Other key cast members have built substantial careers on both sides of the camera:
- Dustin Clare (Gannicus): The fan-favorite champion Gannicus was portrayed by Dustin Clare. Since then, Clare has starred in Australian series like Wolf Creek, Tidelands, and Glitch.
- Craig Parker (Gaius Claudius Glaber): Before tormenting Spartacus, Parker played the elf Haldir in The Lord of the Rings. He has since appeared in period dramas like Reign and the reboot of Charmed, often bringing a refined menace to his roles.
- Jai Courtney (Varro): Though his character Varro was killed in the first season, Courtney’s early role was a sign of things to come. He has since starred in major action films including Jack Reacher, A Good Day to Die Hard, Terminator Genisys, and as Captain Boomerang in Suicide Squad and The Suicide Squad.
The legacy of Spartacus is not just in its groundbreaking style and storytelling, but in the careers it propelled forward. From blockbuster villains to TV heroes, the cast of the gladiator drama continues to fight—and win—in Hollywood’s arena.
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