From Arena to Century: Why Nick E. Tarabay Says Spartacus Could Run Until He’s 100

The gods of television have blessed us with the return of Spartacus, and star Nick E. Tarabay has an audacious prediction—this franchise has enough stories to keep running until the entire cast hits triple digits. In an exclusive conversation with Sportskeeda, Tarabay and showrunner Steven S. DeKnight revealed why Ancient Rome’s rich history makes the Spartacus universe practically immortal.

Spartacus: House of Ashur Quick Guide

“Very, Very Long Legs”—The Franchise’s Endless Potential

When discussing the Spartacus universe’s longevity, Tarabay’s enthusiasm is infectious. He believes Ancient Rome’s fascinating history provides virtually unlimited storytelling opportunities, stating the franchise could continue until he and his castmates are centenarians fighting arthritis alongside their opponents.

The rawness and grittiness of that historical era maintains timeless appeal for audiences worldwide. Rome’s complex political intrigue, brutal gladiatorial combat, slave rebellions, and social dynamics create an inexhaustible well of narratives that showrunner Steven S. DeKnight can explore across multiple seasons.

Discover more epic historical dramas on our ancient world series collection.

DeKnight’s Master Plan: Five to Seven Seasons

DeKnight approaches all his projects with ambitious long-term vision, typically planning five to seven seasons from the outset. For House of Ashur, he’s already written Season 2, demonstrating serious commitment to extended storytelling. After Starz and Lionsgate reached out repeatedly over the past decade, DeKnight finally felt the timing was perfect to resurrect this beloved universe.

The alternate timeline concept opens previously locked creative doors. By asking “What if Ashur survived Mount Vesuvius and received Batiatus’ gladiator school as reward?” the series can explore completely fresh territory while maintaining the brutal authenticity that made the original a phenomenon.

Why This Universe Never Gets Old

DeKnight initially considered other historical figures like Caesar, the triumvirate, or Antony and Cleopatra for the revival. However, one line from the original series kept haunting him—Ashur’s declaration about “the rise of the house of Ashur.” That single moment sparked the entire spinoff concept.

The alternate history framework allows DeKnight to play with actual historical events. One significant change introduces gladiatrices (female gladiators) to the narrative approximately 80 years earlier than they appeared in real history, represented by fierce warrior Achillia played by Tenika Davis.

Watch Spartacus: House of Ashur exclusively on Starz and explore more combat-driven content in our action series guide.

The Legacy Character That Made It Possible

Lucy Lawless returns as Lucretia in a pivotal guest appearance that establishes the “what if” premise. Her character serves as a ghostly guide through the underworld, offering Ashur a second chance at life. This cameo provides crucial continuity for longtime fans while introducing new viewers to the alternate timeline concept.

Both Tarabay and DeKnight expressed joy at reuniting with Lawless, calling the experience magical and the perfect way to re-enter the Spartacus universe after over a decade away.

A Villain Gets His Victory

The series transforms Ashur from villain to protagonist, examining whether someone who committed terrible acts can find redemption when given power. Tarabay described returning to the role as “going back home,” though acknowledging the stakes are substantially higher now that Ashur controls the ludus where he once suffered as a slave.

The show maintains franchise signatures including Shakespearean dialogue, graphic violence, political machinations, and liberal use of “Jupiter’s cock”—all the elements that made the original series a cultural phenomenon for Starz from 2010 to 2013.

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