‘SHOGUN’ Breaks Emmy Record with 18 Wins; Hiroyuki Sanada Becomes First Japanese Lead Actor Winner

The major categories of the Emmy Awards, which honor outstanding American television programs, were announced on September 15th (local time). ‘SHOGUN,’ a streaming drama for Disney+ “Star” produced and starring Hiroyuki Sanada, won awards for Outstanding Series, Outstanding Director, Outstanding Lead Actor, and Outstanding Lead Actress.

The series is an adaptation of James Clavell’s bestselling novel ‘SHOGUN,’ first published in 1975. Set in Japan on the eve of the Battle of Sekigahara, it portrays grand schemes and intrigues inspired by historical figures such as Tokugawa Ieyasu and Ishida Mitsunari, depicting a dramatic struggle for power.

Director Frederick E.O. Toy received the award for Outstanding Director for Episode 9, ‘Crimson Sky.’ Hiroyuki Sanada won Outstanding Lead Actor for his role as Yoshii Toranaga, and Anna Sawai won Outstanding Lead Actress for her role as Mariko Toda.

Hiroyuki Sanada, Producer / Lead Actor as Yoshii Toranaga

I stepped onto the stage feeling that I was not alone, but representing everyone with me. I think the significance of this moment will become clearer in a few years. This is a significant achievement for me, but it could also be a major stepping stone for the industry and young actors. I want to support various talents as they make their mark abroad.

We’ve received a lot of enthusiasm from around the world, and discussions about a second season are underway. The writers’ room is now open, and we’re talking about locations and staffing. We aim to create something that matches the taste of ‘SHOGUN’ while finishing it as fictional entertainment. We’re targeting a start for filming in a year. We are now at the beginning of a long journey. I believe that this result, achieved by a show with 70% of its dialogue in Japanese, has broadened the possibilities for telling the story of ‘SHOGUN.’

Anna Sawai becomes the first Japanese and Asian actress to win the Outstanding Lead Actress Award. She shared her thoughts on receiving the award and discussed her future goals as an actress. Additionally, comments were received from Takashi Hirano, who was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor for his role as Kazunari Ishido.

Anna Sawai – Lead Actress as Mariko Toda

— How do you feel about being the first Asian actress to win the Outstanding Lead Actress Award?
It feels like a dream and I still can’t quite believe it. I might pinch myself when I wake up tomorrow to make sure it’s real.

— Who would you like to share this award with?
First and foremost, I want to share it with my mother. She came with me to the awards ceremony today, and I expressed my gratitude to her from the stage. I also want to celebrate with the Japanese community.

— What are your future goals as an actress?
I want to portray roles that are meaningful to me. Like in ‘SHOGUN,’ I want to choose characters and stories that become a part of me and offer a deep and impactful experience for the audience.

— A message to your fans in Japan
Thank you always for your support. I will continue to work hard and aim to uplift and excite everyone, regardless of borders.

Takashi Hirano as Kazunari Ishido

— How did it feel to be on stage during the awards ceremony when ‘SHOGUN’ won the Outstanding Series Award?
I was trembling for a while [laughs].

— SHOGUN has received great acclaim; what do you think was particularly praised?
Perhaps it’s the mix of mysterious elements and relatable aspects that resonated well.

— The award has generated excitement in Japan. Do you have a message for your fans there?

For those who haven’t seen ‘SHOGUN,’ please make sure to watch it on Disney+!

The series also won 14 awards in technical and artistic categories announced on September 8, bringing its total to 18 awards in the major categories. This record-setting achievement makes it the most awarded in Emmy history and marks a historic milestone with the highest number of Japanese winners, totaling nine. Additionally, the special program ‘The Making Of SHOGUN’ won the Short Form Nonfiction/Reality Series Award.