Steven was interviewed for ScreenCrave today regarding Spartacus: Gods of the Arena but he also talked about Andy:
Earlier today, we got the opportunity to talk to Steven S. DeKnight, the creator, writer, and executive producer of the Starz hit, "Spartacus: Blood & Sand." DeKnight is currently promoting the upcoming prequel series "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena," which airs on Friday January 21. Just yesterday it was announced that Australian actor Liam McIntyre would replace Andy Whitfield in the title role of "Blood & Sand" when it returns for season two. DeKnight revealed why McIntyre was chosen for the part, and what we can expect from the character in the future.
On Whitfield's departure, McIntyre's arrival, and the future of Spartacus:
"We're obviously deeply saddened that Andy couldn't continue with us, he was a huge part of the show's success and we wish him the best and a speedy recovery. We did an exhaustive search to find someone not to replace Andy but to step into the role of Spartacus and we feel very fortunate that we were able to find Liam who we felt really embodied everything we were looking for in the character moving forward."
With the personal battle that Whitfield is facing [he's currently battling cancer], his former co-stars still stand behind him. Manu Bennett who plays Crixus on the show stated, "We're all praying for him. We are all in huge support of Andy. We are all so deeply saddened."