Syfy buys Spartacus

US cable network Syfy is acquiring basic cable rights to all 39 episodes of sword ‘n’ sandal series Spartacus from Starz Worldwide Distribution.

The series will premiere on Syfy on June 26, joining the NBCUniversal-owned network’s roster of acquisitions including Lost Girl, Bitten, Continuum and the upcoming The Almighty Johnsons, Z-Nation and Olympus.

Spartacus, which consists of a six-part prequel and three regular seasons, originally aired in the US on the Starz pay cable network, of which Starz Worldwide Distribution is the global licensing and content syndication arm.

Chris Regina, senior VP of programming for Syfy, said: “Our strategy of acquiring hit shows to complement our premium original scripted series has really resonated with our audience. With its action-soaked storylines and powerful characters, Spartacus will be a dynamic addition to our schedule.”