Syfy received rights to all 39 episodes of the hit Starz series Spartacus including all three seasons and the six-part prequel Gods of The Arena.
Deadline exclusively reported that Syfy acquisition is the biggest pact to date from the network in 16 years. The first big acquisition for then Sci Fi was for Stargate SG-1, The Outer Limits and Poltergeist: The Legacy all series from Showtime. Of the three Stargate and Poltergeist became original series on Sci Fi. Stargate spawned a franchise after this and became a signature series for Sci Fi.
Spartacus is joining other acquired series Lost Girl, Bitten, Continuum and the upcoming The Almighty Johnsons (July), Z-Nation (Fall), and Olympus (2015).
“Our strategy of acquiring hit shows to complement our premium original scripted series has really resonated with our audience,” said Chris Regina, SVP Programming. “With its action-soaked storylines and powerful characters, Spartacus will be a dynamic addition to our schedule.”
Steven S. DeKnight created Spartacus and it was inspired by famous slave-turned-gladiator of the Roman Republic. Executive producers on the series are DeKnight, Rob Tapert and Joshua Donen. Andy Whitfield portrayed the main character. Liam McIntyre took over the role following Whitfield’s death.
Catch the Spartacus Syfy debut on June 26 at 10 PM, following Defiance and Dominion.