Starz has released two clips from tonight's premiere of Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, the prequel to its popular swords-and-sandals drama Spartacus: Blood and Sand.

The six-episode miniseries follows the original champion of the House of Batiatus, and features returning stars John Hannah, Lucy Lawless and Peter Mensah as well as new cast members Dustin Clare, Jaime Murray and Marisa Ramirez. Here’s the official synopsis:

The House of Batiatus is on the rise, basking in the glow of its infamous champion Gannicus, whose skill with a sword is matched only by his thirst for wine and women. These are the times a young Batiatus has been waiting for. Poised to overthrow his father and take control, he’ll freely betray anyone to ensure his gladiators are in the highest demand. And he’ll have his loyal and calculating wife Lucretia by his side for every underhanded scheme, drawing on the brazen talents of her seductive friend Gaia when it counts. Together, they will stop at nothing to deceive the masses, seize power, and bleed Capua dry in this audacious prequel to Spartacus: Blood and Sand.

Spartacus: Gods of the Arena premieres tonight at 10 ET/PT on Starz. The cable channel announced earlier this week that it has cast Australian actor Liam McIntyre to replace Spartacus: Blood and Sand star Andy Whitfield, who was forced to leave the series for health reasons. The show's second season isn't expected to air until early next year.