Starz’s Spartacus: Vengeance star Liam McIntyre and creator/producer Steven S. DeKnight are joining Hollywood legend Kirk Douglas at the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Goldenson Theater in Los Angeles on Thursday, May 31st to discuss the “cultural impact of Spartacus then and now.”
Based on a combination of historical facts and fiction, the hit Starz series involves many of the same themes as the 1960 film starring Douglas. During the June 12th discussion, McIntyre and DeKnight will talk about the process and pressure of “bringing an iconic character to the screen, the advantage of being able to tell that story on premium television, and the acclaimed production elements that give the show a distinctive look.”
“I am happy that Spartacus continues to live in the Starz series, but why didn’t they ask me to play him?” Kirk Douglas joked. “I made a film about freedom at a time when freedom was in jeopardy and a blacklist had been in effect in Hollywood for more than a decade. There are parallels in today’s political climate, which is why a hero like Spartacus still resonates, I believe. Also, it helps to look good in a loincloth!”
“Spartacus has a legacy like few other men,” stated McIntyre. “He has inspired millions of people and entire social movements. It is my immeasurable honor to discuss such an iconic character with Mr. Douglas and Steven S. DeKnight, who have both breathed new life into this legend in exciting and groundbreaking ways.”
“I’m unbelievably humbled,” added DeKnight, “not only to have the opportunity to sit down with a Hollywood legend that has inspired me and countless others, but also to discuss how the story of Spartacus has resonated for thousands of years throughout the world.”
Douglas’ new memoir – I Am Spartacus! Making a Film, Breaking the Blacklist – will be available on June 12, 2012 (visit openroadmedia.com/kirkdouglas for details). The memoir’s title refers to the fact Douglas gave screen credit to blacklisted writer Dalton Trumbo, an act which at that time caused an uproar among the Legion of Decency as well as members of the press.
