This is the kind of vote of confidence that warms the heart: Starz has given 'Spartacus' a third season before the second season of the show arrives on Jan. 27.

Executives at Starz apparently felt so positively about the second season, 'Spartacus: Vengeance,' and new star Liam McIntyre's performance in the title role that they've told executive producer/creator Steven DeKnight and his writers to get straight to work on Season 3.

"Many surprises are in store for 'Vengeance' viewers this year, but rest assured, the multi-layered plot and richly developed characters will continue to be a trademark of this series," executive producer Rob Tapert said in a statement from the network. "It's incredibly gratifying to see how the story has resonated so well with viewers worldwide."

"The executives at Starz have been extremely supportive in giving us creative freedom and allowing us to tell the story in a rich, yet bold way that leaves an indelible mark on its fans," DeKnight added.