Australian actor Andy Whitfield is leaving the television series “Spartacus: Blood and Sand” due to the recurrence of his cancer.

The 36-year-old will undergo aggressive treatment for this second battle with the disease. He said in a statement, “It’s with a deep sense of disappointment that I must step aside from such as exceptional project as Spartacus and all the wonderful people involved. It seems that it is time for myself and my family to embark on another extraordinary journey.”

In March this year, Whitfield was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He underwent treatment in New Zealand and the makers of the show had to postpone the production because of it.

In June, Starz network announced that the British-born actor was recovering from the illness and was expected to be working again in October. Unfortunately, the cancer has reappeared.

Starz President and CEO Chris Albrecht said, “Our hearts and prayers are with Andy and his family during this difficult time. Andy is not only an incredible actor whose portrayal of Spartacus made an indelible impression on Starz audiences, he is also an amazing human being whose courage, strength and grace in the face of adversity have inspired all of us.”

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