Starz will pay tribute to the late Andy Whitfield on Oct. 2 with a five-episode marathon of Spartacus: Blood and Sand.

The 39-year-old actor, who starred as the legendary Thracian gladiator in the first season of the sword-and-sandals drama, passed away Sunday, just 18 months after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The marathon, which begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT, will include the series premiere and the Season 1 finale. The entire season will be re-broadcast on Dec. 16.

"We were fortunate to have worked with Andy in Spartacus and came to know that the man who played a champion on-screen was also a champion in his own life," Starz President and CEO Chris Albrecht said in a statement. "Andy was an inspiration to all of us as he faced this very personal battle with courage, strength and grace. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. He will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and fans."