Spartacus: Blood and Sand is a Starz original television series that premiered on January 22, 2010. The series focuses on the historical figure of Spartacus, a 1st century B.C. Roman gladiator (played by Andy Whitfield), who later became the leader of a major slave uprising against the Roman Republic. The show has been rated TV-MA for graphic violence, strong sexual content, and major profanity. On December 22, 2009, it was announced that the show was renewed for a second season before even premiering.