MOVIE NEWS – Often described as the bloodiest and most provocative show in television history, Spartacus: House of Ashur is not just back, it is steadily tightening its grip on the streaming landscape. Since its early December debut, the series has been climbing the charts across multiple platforms.
Spartacus: House of Ashur premiered on Starz on December 5 and has been methodically rising through the streaming rankings ever since. The show currently stands as the second most-watched series on Starz, while Steven S. DeKnight’s latest creation has also secured ninth place on the Amazon Channels Top 10 list in the United States.
The series marks the return of Nick E. Tarabay as Ashur and unfolds within an alternate “what if” timeline. It explores a scenario in which the Syrian does not die on Mount Vesuvius, but instead becomes the one who kills Spartacus. From there, Ashur is granted control of his own ludus, rises to power, and finds an unlikely champion to fight in his name. Critics have responded favorably so far, with the show holding a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while its audience score sits much lower at 48%. The gap is largely attributed to review bombing linked to the character Achillia, portrayed by Tenika Davis, a Black female gladiator who gains prominence as the story unfolds.
The success of House of Ashur has also reignited interest in the wider Spartacus universe. The original series, which aired from 2010 to 2013, is currently the ninth most popular show on Starz and ranks twenty-third in the Apple TV Store. According to the official synopsis, the series explores a scenario in which Ashur survives the events of Vengeance and is rewarded with the gladiator school he once served, chronicling his rise as a dominus in the brutal world of Roman gladiators, aided by the fierce Achillia.
Will There Be More Spartacus Spin-Offs?
As of now, Spartacus: House of Ashur has not been officially renewed for a second season by Starz, but the project is far from stalled. DeKnight has already written the entirety of Season 2 and is simply waiting for the network’s approval. He has also indicated that he has enough material mapped out for at least four or five seasons if the audience response remains strong.
Recently responding to a fan question on social media, DeKnight hinted that his ideas extend well beyond the current series. While he did not reveal specifics, he made it clear that more stories are already taking shape, stating: “I have a half dozen more spinoff ideas. Just waiting to see if HOA is successful. If it is, get ready for the extended Spartaverse!”
For fans eager for more of the franchise’s signature mix of blood, sex, and action, the outlook is promising. Episode 5 of House of Ashur premieres on December 26, with the remaining episodes airing weekly until the season concludes on February 6, 2026.
Source: MovieWeb
