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Welsh actor who found fame in US TV series passes away

Welsh actor who found fame in US TV series passes away

TRIBUTES have been paid to Welsh actor Andy Whitfield who has passed away, aged 39.

Mr. Whitfield had been a relatively unknown actor before landing the title role in the US TV series Spartacus: Blood and Sand. 

The series proved popular in America and was also shown in the U.K.

However, the actor, who came from Amlwch on Anglesey, had been forced to take time off from the show after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma 18 months ago.

The disease had been said to be in remission following treatment, but in September last year it had returned.

The father-of-two had been living in Australia.

Mr. Whitfield’s credits during his short acting career included the films Gabriel (2007), The Clinic (2010) and the TV series All Saints.

Many tributes have been paid to the young actor.

Chris Albrecht, of the US TV network Starz, said: “The man who played a champion on-screen was also a champion in his own life. He faced his illness with courage, strength and grace.”

Mr. Whitfield is survived by his wife Vashti and their two children.

To view an interview with Andy Whitfield, whch was recorded last year, click here.

 

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