Here the audience meets a new champion in Gannicus, portrayed by Dustin Clare. Dustin was among the final picks for actors to portray Spartacus in "Blood & Sand." Ultimately the role went to the Late Andy Whitfield and Dustin had no involvement in the project. But when Andy was diagnosed with cancer and the prequel was under way, Dustin was the first choice for a new Gladiator to hold the spotlight in Spartacus' stead.
The opportunity to produce "Gods of the Arena" emerged when the second series of "Spartacus" halted while lead actor Andy Whitfield battled Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Series creator and executive producer Steven S. DeKnight expanded a single flashback episode for the second season into a six part mini series.
Batiatus paid 50 Denari to purchase Crixus. In season one, when Spartacus asked Crixus if his worth was "a few coins." Crixus responded "More than a few." Like Spartacus, Crixus was purchased by Batiatus at an inflated price.
Marisa Ramirez is the only American cast member.
Production began in New Zealand in August 2010.