Earlier this year, we were bereaved to learn that following an epic second (technically third) season of Stephen S. DeKnight and Starz's 'Spartacus,' the series would come to a conclusion with its third official season, 'Spartacus: War of the Damned.' With a run of only 10 episodes, Starz has set its officical 2013 premiere date for the show's bloody end, but when can viewers expect the sword to drop? And what new series might take its place?

2013 will see the beginning of the end for Starz's critically-acclaimed 'Spartacus,' to be titled in its final installment 'Spartacus: War of the Damned.' Starz has set the official premiere date for the Liam McIntyre-fronted final season on Friday, January 25 at 9:00 p.m., to run a total of 10 episodes before closing out the series.

"I would much rather end a series with the audience wanting more than limping to the finish line, with only the die-hard fans sticking around for the wrap up," said creator Stephen S. DeKnight to EW in June. "We want to make the 10 best episodes we can. I can’t wait for everybody to see it.

In addition to the casting of actresses Anna Hutchinson, Jenna Lind and Gwendoline Taylor, ‘Spartacus: War of the Damned’ will also feature the introduction of two major villains, that of Marcus Crassus (Simon Merrells) with a young Julius Caesar (Todd Lasance) by his side. The extensive additions fill the void left by departed actors Lucy Lawless (Lucretia), Viva Bianca (Ilithyia), Craig Parker (Glaber), Peter Mensah (Oenomaus), Katrina Law (Mira) and Nick E. Tarabay (Ashur).

What say you? Are you ready for the final season, 'Spartacus: War of the Damned'? Check out the trailer below for a sneak peek!

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