Syfy has acquired the U.S. basic cable rights to all 39 episodes of Starz’s cult gladiator drama “Spartacus.” The deal encompasses all three of “Spartacus’” main seasons, “Blood and Sand,” “Vengeance” and “War of the Damned,” plus its six-episode prequel series “Gods of the Arena.”
“Spartacus” will make its basic cable premiere on Thursday, June 26 at 10 p.m., following Syfy’s original dramas “Defiance” at 8 p.m. and “Dominion” at 9 p.m. Contrary to other reports, Syfy is not picking up the series for new episodes.
“Spartacus” is the latest addition to Syfy’s stable of acquisitions, which include “Lost Girl,” “Bitten,” “Continuum” and the upcoming “The Almighty Johnsons” (premiering in July), “Z-Nation” (fall) and “Olympus” (2015).
Said Chris Regina, Senior Vice President of Programming at Syfy: “Our strategy of acquiring hit shows to complement our premium original scripted series has really resonated with our audience. With its action-soaked storylines and powerful characters, Spartacus will be a dynamic addition to our schedule.”
“Spartacus made an indelible impact on Starz’s premium viewers in the United States and with audiences around the globe,” said Gene George, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Distribution for Starz. “We are very pleased to strike this accord and bring the incredible tale of Spartacus to Syfy for its viewers.”
