Gladiators, demigods, and tomb-raiding archaeologists are among the popular characters returning to must-see TV shows in December, joined by an American in Paris, a mutated post-apocalyptic bounty hunter, and a cat and his walking goldfish brother. From the Mojave Wasteland and New Vegas to the halls of Ellmore Middle School, here are the six streaming series you should catch up on before they continue this month.
What it is: This Starz series inspired by the titular Roman soldier-turned-slave-turned-gladiator has something of a tragic history, with original lead Andy Whitfield passing away after the first season. Liam McIntyre ultimately took over the role for two more seasons, but not before Starz produced a six-episode prequel series (Spartacus: Gods of the Arena). We now get a sequel series, following the formerly villainous character Ashur (a role reprised by Nick E. Tarabay) as he becomes the new owner of Batiatusโs gladiator training camp. The show is set in an alternate timeline where he was not killed on Mount Vesuvius at the end of the third season (aka Spartacus: Vengeance). The first two episodes of Spartacus: House of Ashur premiere on Starz on Friday, December 5.
Why you should watch it: Fans of the Spartacus TV universe have gone 12 years without any new content, making House of Ashur a major television event for this thrilling guilty-pleasure franchise. The original show ran from 2010 to 2013 and served up historical drama for the sword-and-sandals crowd with a heaping helping of sex and violence, and the โwhat ifโ scenario of this sequel allows for an exciting expansion.
Where to watch: Starz and Netflix (subscription, Spartacus seasons 1-4); buy at Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Google Play, and Apple TV
Commitment: Approx. 36 hours (for seasons 1-4)