On Amazon you can now watch for free all seasons of a bloody historical series that entertains with hefty violence and erotic interludes.
One year before Game of Thrones, a historical series with martial violence and a free and liberal treatment of historical figures started, which still entertains today. We’re talking about Spartacus. Since recently, you can watch all seasons of the wonderfully filthy spectacle series for free on Amazon, without a subscription.
Spartacus has a famous hero, but doesn’t stick so closely to history
For the most part, the series follows a fictional storyline, but one that is based on major historical events. It centers on a Thracian soldier who is separated from his wife against his will and falls into servitude as a slave and later as a gladiator in Italy. He is given the name Spartacus by his new Roman master. In Italy he experiences oppression by the upper classes and decides to initiate an uprising.
The series was overshadowed by a heavy loss
In early 2010, the 1st season was released with the subtitle Blood and Sand. Welshman Andy Whitfield played the lead role. When Whitfield had to seek treatment for cancer, the Starz network commissioned a prequel season titled Gods of the Arena as a stopgap. This was set before Spartacus arrived in Capua.
Andy Whitfield
Because of his illness, Whitfield stepped down from the role. The actor died on September 11, 2011.
Meanwhile, the Starz network had announced Australian Liam McIntyre as his successor in the Spartacus role. McIntyre played the slave, gladiator and insurgent in two more seasons.
