After the remarkable success of “Spartacus: House of Ashur,” which premiered on Starz to rave reviews including an initial 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, creator Steven DeKnight has revealed which beloved character from the original Spartacus series he’s eager to bring back. Following the revival of Ashur in the new sequel show, DeKnight expressed his interest in revisiting another fan favorite — the charismatic gladiator Gannicus.
Steven DeKnight’s Vision for the Spartacus Universe
In a candid pre-release interview with ScreenRant’s Tatiana Hullender, Steven DeKnight shared his enthusiasm for exploring more stories within the expansive Spartacus universe. Although House of Ashur centers around the redemption arc of Ashur, a complex anti-hero character, DeKnight hinted there’s room for other captivating narratives from the original series to be expanded upon.
“I’d love to go back before Ashur died and explore Gannicus,” DeKnight said. “Because Dustin Clare is a fan favorite and I’d love to work with him again.” This statement excites fans who have long admired Gannicus, portrayed by Dustin Clare, since his introduction in Spartacus season 2 and the prequel series Spartacus: Gods of the Arena.
Who is Gannicus and Why Fans Want More
Gannicus, the former champion of Capua, is celebrated for his superior fighting skills and his knack for delivering comic relief in an otherwise intense series. ScreenRant, in a 2020 article highlighting underused Spartacus characters, echoed DeKnight’s sentiment that Gannicus deserved a more significant role throughout the series.
His character stands out not just for gladiatorial skill, but for his magnetic charisma and charm. However, his storyline also included some turbulent moments, particularly in his romantic relationships, which fans found both compelling and frustrating.
Exploring Gannicus’ personal growth could add depth to the sequel series, offering a richer view of his vulnerabilities, particularly in relationships. One notable relationship that sparked drama was with Saxa, which was marred by jealousy and insecurity after Sibyl’s pursuit of Gannicus. ScreenRant described this as one of the worst couples in the Spartacus universe, where the tension led to Gannicus ultimately leaving Saxa for Sibyl.
Despite this, Gannicus remained a crowd favorite until his dramatic crucifixion in the season 3 finale of Spartacus, which also featured Saxa’s tragic demise.
Why Ashur Took Center Stage in the New Sequel
DeKnight emphasized that the focus on Ashur’s redemption story in House of Ashur was a deliberate choice, explaining the limited scope for reviving other characters alongside him. Ashur’s arc explores the intriguing concept of a “bad man trying to be better,” bringing fresh complexity to the series. The show’s success, however, leaves the door wide open for future seasons—possibly exploring fan-favorite characters like Gannicus.
During San Diego Comic-Con 2025, DeKnight shared that the creative team has roughly mapped out about five seasons for the sequel series. This plan, adaptable depending on the show’s popularity, could mean far more stories and character developments are yet to come in the Spartacus universe.
Spartacus: House of Ashur – A Fresh Chapter on Starz
Since its release on December 5, 2025, Spartacus: House of Ashur has garnered critical acclaim, currently holding a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes after a slight decline from its perfect start. The series stars Nick E. Tarabay as Ashur and features notable cast members such as Graham McTavish playing Korris, enriching the series’ dramatic and action-packed milieu.
Set in a richly detailed historical backdrop, the show continues to captivate audiences with its intense drama, stunning action sequences, and dynamic characters. The next episode is scheduled to air on Friday, January 2, 2026, promising more gripping developments.
Prospects for Gannicus’ Return and Beyond
With DeKnight’s interest and the series’ success, the possibility of Gannicus making a return or even featuring in flashbacks and spinoffs fuels optimism among Spartacus fans. Given the vast narrative potential—from gladiatorial contests to personal drama—the character’s revival would surely delight viewers eager for more depth and excitement.
Conclusion
Steven DeKnight’s vision for the future of the Spartacus sequel series offers fans hopeful prospects, especially the potential return of Gannicus, a character beloved for his fighting prowess and charm. While House of Ashur establishes a strong foundation centered on Ashur’s compelling story of redemption, it also paves the way for exploring other characters and untold stories from the Spartacus universe.
With multiple seasons tentatively mapped out and critical acclaim bolstering the show’s momentum, viewers can look forward to an enriching continuation of the saga. Whether Gannicus will take the spotlight again remains to be seen, but the creator’s enthusiasm certainly sparks excitement.
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