Genre: Historical Drama / Action / Gladiator / Political Intrigue

Creator: Steven S. DeKnight

Starring: Nick E. Tarabay, Graham McTavish, Tenika Davis, Ivana Baquero, Claudia Black, Jordi Webber

Overview:

Spartacus: House of Ashur is a spin-off sequel to the legendary Spartacus series, set in an alternate timeline where the cunning villain Ashur survives and rises to power in ancient Rome. Instead of dying during the slave rebellion, he’s rewarded by the Romans and given control of a gladiator school — forcing him to navigate deadly politics, brutal arena battles, and dangerous alliances. The show premiered on Starz on December 5, 2025, continuing the franchise’s tradition of blood-soaked spectacle and betrayal.

Highlights:

Alternate History Twist

The series explores a “what-if” scenario where Ashur becomes a dominus controlling his own ludus, reshaping the power dynamics of ancient Rome while keeping the brutal tone fans expect.

Classic Spartacus Violence & Drama

Expect gladiator battles, intense betrayals, and heavy political scheming — expanding the franchise’s reputation for over-the-top action and shocking twists.

New & Returning Faces

Nick E. Tarabay returns as Ashur, joined by characters like Korris (Graham McTavish) and female gladiator Achillia (Tenika Davis), bringing new rivalries and perspectives into the arena.

Bigger Arena, Darker Politics

Beyond the fights, the show dives deeper into Roman power struggles, exploring ambition, manipulation, and survival in a ruthless empire.

Final Verdict:

Spartacus: House of Ashur delivers a brutal, alternate-timeline continuation packed with gladiator action, ruthless politics, and the franchise’s signature excess. While the focus on a former villain may divide fans, the series still offers plenty of blood, betrayal, and arena spectacle for longtime Spartacus lovers.

“Power is earned in blood… and lost in betrayal.”