Game of Thrones star in new Prime Video series based on books that inspired Gladiator film

For fans who are eagerly anticipating the new Gladiator 2 film which releases in November, a new series called Those About To Die is dropping on Prime Video this week. The 10-part Ancient Rome gladiator drama is based on a non-fiction book of the same name by Daniel P Mannix.

As well as this, interestingly, the book served as an inspiration to the movie Gladiator which released in 2000 and the upcoming sequel. Prime Video's new series is set within the spectacular, complex and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in Ancient Rome.

The show will look at the spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition, exploring a side of ancient Rome never before told – the dirty business of entertaining the masses, giving the mob what they want most...blood and sport. The series introduces an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who collide at the explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties.

Those About To Die features a spectacular ensemble cast, including Game of Thrones star Iwan Rheon who starred as Ramsay Bolton from 2013 to 2016. Joining the Welsh actor in the series is Anthony Hopkins, Tom Hughes, Sara Martins, Gabriella Pession and Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson.

Ever since Prime Video released the trailer last month, fans have flocked to the comments section to share their views on it. One excited person commented on YouTube: "This looks great! Looks like they're going more for adventure-drama rather than historical drama. Looking forward to seeing how much they include about the real life of emperor Vespasian, Anthony Hopkin's character.

"Nice to see how well they can portray the splendour of ancient Rome compared to Gladiator back in 2000."

Another viewer penned: "Trailer looks fantastic. Great job Crew & Cast! Love modern art (music, cgi & more) mixed in historical fiction. Keeps it fresh." (sic)

Somebody else wrote: "Im actually hyped for this lol," while a fourth added: "Better be up there with Spartacus series."

Gladiator 2 is all set to release in November, 24 years after the original film released back in 2000.

The movie stars Paul Mescal Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielson, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger and is directed by Ridley Scott.

It picks up years after the original film, following the death of Maximus Decimus Meridius (played by Russell Crowe), who sacrificed his life to overthrow the Roman empire's leadership.

Those About To Die is available to stream on Prime Video from July 19.