After the long and difficult process of trying to figure out who should replace Andy Whitfield on the hit Starz original series, Spartacus: Blood and Sand, the actor who will step into the title role has officially been chosen, and his name is Liam McIntyre.

Whitfield was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after the resoundingly popular first season, and their sophomore run was put on hold. At a time it seemed Whitfield was about to make a full recovery, but sadly he had a setback and the show was delayed again, forcing Starz to consider either recasting Whitfield’s role or possibly even canceling the show all together.

Many of you commented on the looming decision and ultimately confirmed choice to recast, and most, while not at all that comfortable with replacing Whitfield, seemed to want the show to go on one way or another.