Tribute to Andy Whitfield By John Hannah And How To Support Andy's Family
EW.com looks at the Best & Worst 2011 Late Greats 2011: Stars Pay Tribute section. John pays tribute to Andy.
Andy Whitfield (July 17, 1971?Sept. 11, 2011)
By John Hannah
Spartacus was a very physically demanding role, and since I played his master, I spent a lot of time hitting Andy. I was always slapping him and punching him in the head, but he was always so patient. I would say, ''I won't hit you during the take,'' and end up just whacking him when we were shooting. There was one time I head-butted him, and he just started laughing. He was exhausted, but he was so wonderful about it. Andy was such a lovely human being. To be honest, that's what I feel personally is the greatest loss.
Whitfield died of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in Sydney, Australia.
Source
If you would like to support Andy's family, you can do so by donating to the Andy Whitfield Trust Fund. Lucy Lawless sent in this note soon after Andy's passing about how you can contribute:
Dear Friends,
A trust fund has been set up for Andy's family. We are all keen to let Vashti know that her unwavering support of her husband's career was very much appreciated. Without her, Andy would never have left his career as a structural engineer to fulfill his dreams. She put her own career on hold to back him up. Filming schedules often leave the partner holding the baby 60 + hours a week for months on end. Andy's wife was a tower of strength through thick and thin. We want her to know how touched we were by his portrayal of Spartacus and how grateful we are for her part in it.
Blessings always,
Lucy
The most important thing for Andy is that his family are supported in their future and so a facility has been established for anyone who wishes to contribute.
Bank details for accepting payment to Andy Whitfield's Estate.
Please note, this is an AUD currency account based in Australia so any transfers will be deemed foreign transfers on their end.
HSBC Bank Australia
Account Name: RGM Artist Group Pty Ltd Trust Account
Swift Code: HKBAAU2S
Branch Code: 343-001
Account No: 206 036 002
Currency: AUD
Reference: "Whitfield Donation"
How to Transfer Money from US to Australia for Andy Whitfield Trust Fund Via Online Way