The acclaimed Starz original series ‘Spartacus’ has been renewed for a third season, Coming Soon is reporting. The green light comes over two months before the first sequel season, ‘Spartacus: Vengeance,’ is set to debut on Friday, January 27, 2012 at 10PM ET/PT. The second sequel season, which is currently untitled, is expected to begin filming in early 2012 in New Zealand.

Carmi Zlotnik, Starz Media Managing Director, said “There is no denying the impact ‘Spartacus’ has had in the marketplace with fans across the globe…We are thrilled to come to an early agreement that allows the writers and talent to get right back to work in preparing for season three.”

‘Spartacus’ executive producer Rob Tapert said “Many surprises are in store for ‘Vengeance’ viewers this year, but rest assured the multi-layered plot and richly developed characters will continue to be a trademark of this series. It’s incredibly gratifying to see how the story has resonated so well with viewers worldwide.”

Fellow executive producer Steven S. DeKnight added that the Starz executives have been extremely supportive in giving the show creative freedom. They have also been generous in “allowing us to tell the story in a rich, yet bold way that leaves an indelible mark on its fans.”

Written by: Karen Benardello