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Netflix has just become home to Starz's all-out historical action series, "Spartacus." This violent swords-and-sandals series originally ran for four seasons from 2010-2013, and charted the rise of the fearsome titular gladiator.
After a five-year absence from the streaming service, all 39 episodes of Steven S. DeKnight and Sam Raimi's "Spartacus" were made available to stream on Netflix in the US on September 22, 2025.
What is 'Spartacus' about?
"Spartacus" is an epic historical action drama inspired by the titular Thracian gladiator who went on to lead an uprising against the Romans.
Beginning with "Spartacus: Blood and Sand," we follow as the unnamed man is condemned to die in the arena. But that Thracian outmaneuvers and kills his would-be executioners... becoming a hit with the crowds. Thus, he avoids death and is instead enslaved and reborn as the gladiator, "Spartacus" (Andy Whitfield/Liam McIntyre), and the series follows his training and life leading up to his rebellion.
The "Spartacus" cast also includes Manu Bennett, Erin Cummings, Peter Mensah, Nick E. Tarabay, Katrina Law, Dustin Clare, Lesley-Ann Brandt, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, John Hannah, Lucy Lawless, Viva Bianca, Ioane King, Craig Parker, and Dan Feuerriegel.
Should you stream 'Spartacus' on Netflix?
That question's pretty easy to answer: if you like swords-and-sandals action, bloody fights, and behind-the-scenes politicking and drama, and aren't troubled by meticulous historical accuracy, then "Spartacus" definitely deserves a spot on your Netflix watchlist.
This is an intense, violent, and erotic saga, one of revenge, sex, and rebellion, and is driven by a ferocious performance from both "Spartacus" leads (McIntyre took over from Whitfield after the late star exited the show while battling cancer).
The gratuitous violence and frequent graphic sex and nudity might turn some viewers off, the effects and "300"-aping slow-motion and stylistics feel dated by today's standards, and the trying-to-be-Shakespearean dialogue is more melodrama than epic, but if you have a soft spot for this kind of saga, or a desire for over-the-top action, then this blood-soaked rendering of the "Spartacus" story will be the series for you. It is unashamedly visceral, pulp entertainment, and you'll never be left questioning whether you were entertained or not.
"Spartacus" never received as warm a reaction as some of the other major series of its TV era, but it was generally well-received, especially by fellow viewers. The show's overall 64% rating on Rotten Tomatoes might have you a little reticent to dive in, but all four seasons have a significantly higher rating on the Popcornmeter.
Take a quick scroll through viewer reactions, and you'll see it was generally well-loved, for more than just its base parts, and the word "underrated" even rears its head. Fans grew to love the characters, the emotions, stories, alongside its campier aspects, and some even went as far as to proclaim "Spartacus" their all-time favorite show.
In short, if you want a visceral, action-packed show, you should be streaming "Spartacus" on Netflix. But if you're just not sold on the premise, we can still help you find your next Netflix series: check out our breakdown of the best shows on Netflix for tons more top streaming suggestions.
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