Spartacus: House of Ashur Rises, Dominating Streaming Charts for Starz

The new “Spartacus” spinoff is a major hit for Starz. Spartacus: House of Ashur premiered on December 5th. It quickly climbed to become the second most popular series on the Starz platform itself. The show is also charting on Amazon Channels, securing a Top 10 spot in the United States.

This success marks a strong return for the brutal, stylized world of ancient Rome. The series explores a compelling “what if” scenario centered on a fan-favorite character. Its performance is driving renewed interest in the entire original saga.

Ashur’s Alternate History Captivates Viewers

The series stars Nick E. Tarabay, reprising his role as the cunning Ashur. It asks a simple but powerful question. What if Ashur survived and killed Spartacus on Mount Vesuvius? The answer unfolds as Ashur gains command of his own gladiator school, or ludus.

He finds an unlikely champion in Achillia, a fierce gladiatrix. According to review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, critics have embraced the new story. The series holds an impressive 92% critical score on the platform.

Audience reception has been more divided. The audience score is currently 48%. This appears linked to online review bombing targeting the character of Achillia, played by Tenika Davis. Despite this, the show’s streaming numbers tell a story of strong viewer engagement.

Fueling a Resurgence for the Spartaverse

The spinoff’s success is having a halo effect. The original Spartacus series from 2010-2013 is also enjoying a surge. It is now the ninth most-watched show on Starz. The franchise has re-entered the cultural conversation in a significant way.

Creator Steven S. DeKnight has ambitious plans. He has already written a full second season of House of Ashur. He is waiting for the official renewal from Starz to proceed. Reports suggest he has outlines for four or five total seasons of this story.

DeKnight has also teased a broader future. On social media, he confirmed having “a half dozen more spinoff ideas.” His vision is an extended “Spartaverse” if House of Ashur continues its strong performance. This promises more of the franchise’s signature action and drama for dedicated fans.

The strong debut of Spartacus: House of Ashur proves there is substantial appetite for more stories from this universe. Its chart dominance is a clear signal to networks and streamers. The saga of blood, sand, and ambition is far from over.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What is *Spartacus: House of Ashur* about?

It is a spinoff series imagining an alternate history. The story follows the villainous Ashur if he had killed Spartacus and been rewarded with his own gladiator school. He rises to power with a powerful gladiatrix named Achillia at his side.

Q2: Where can I watch the new Spartacus show?

*Spartacus: House of Ashur* is available exclusively on the Starz streaming platform. It is also accessible through the Starz channel on Amazon Prime Video Channels. New episodes are released weekly.

Q3: How has the show been received by critics?

Critical reception has been very positive. The series currently holds a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised its fresh take on the franchise’s lore and its high-energy production.

Q4: Will there be a Season 2 of House of Ashur?

A second season has not been officially greenlit yet. However, show creator Steven S. DeKnight has confirmed the entire second season is already written. The decision rests on the continued viewership success of the first season.

Q5: Is the original Spartacus series streaming too?

Yes. All seasons of the original *Spartacus* series are also available to stream on Starz. The spinoff’s popularity has caused a significant boost in viewership for the classic show as well.

Q6: Who are the trusted sources for this news?

This report is based on official data from the Starz platform and performance charts. Additional information comes from the show’s creator via verified social media accounts and critical scores from Rotten Tomatoes.