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Sunday’s BAFTA TV Awards ceremony, hosted by Alan Cumming, saw Shōguntake home the award for Best International TV series, per Deadline. The FX show, which airs on Disney+ in the U.K., was up against The After Party, Colin from Accounts, Say Nothing, True Detective: Night Country, and You Are Not Alone: Fighting the Wolfpack.

Shōgun currently sits with a nearly perfect 99% Rotten Tomatoes critic score and stars Cosmo Jarvis, Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano, Hiroyuki Sanada, Yûki Kedôin, and Akiko Kobyashi. The first season of the FX series followed the arrival of John Blackthorne (Jarvis), the Anjin, on the shores of Japan. He then becomes involved in a power struggle that he can barely comprehend. He then winds up on Lord Toranga’s (Sanada) side, fighting against his political rivals. Sawai’s Lady Mariko serves as Blackstone’s translator.

Shōgun Swept the 2024 Emmys

The series, which consists of 12 episodes,...

The 2025 awards season is officially underway, as the Golden Globes celebrated the very best in TV and Film last night at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. FX's Shogun won big on the night, taking home Best Drama Series. The acclaimed historical epic also won three awards for its leading actors, Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano, and the man whose performance stole the show, Hiroyuki Sanada.

Hiroyuki Sanada won the Golden Globe for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series - Drama (that's a lengthy title) for his outstanding performance as Lord Toranaga in Shogun. The series pulls a classic bait and switch, as audiences expect Cosmo Jarvis' John Blackthorne to be the leading character, only for the enigmatic and calculated Toranaga to steal the show and steer the reins. Sanada already dominated the tail end of 2024's awards ceremonies, when he took home Outstanding...

Some shows stay in limbo for years while fans wait for news of renewal, but many of 2024's best new shows have already announced their second seasons. This comes as a breath of fresh air in an era when it feels like more and more shows are being canceled. Some great shows got canceled in 2024, including a few that just aired promising first seasons, like Apple TV+'s Sunny. Fortunately, plenty of exciting new shows have avoided this fate.

2024 has offered great new shows in a variety of genres. From the historical drama of Shōgun to the cozy crime comedy of Ludwig, there has been something for everyone in 2024. Many of the year's best shows ended with agonizing cliffhangers, like Sweetpea and Rivals, so it's a relief to see that these stories will continue soon. These shows all made an imapct this year, but it's only the beginning.

Shōgun Shōgun...

Ramping up the glitz and glamour from last year’s launch shindig, The Hollywood Reporter Japan turned on the style once more for its Trailblazer Award Gala Party, held Wednesday night at The Peninsula Hotel in Tokyo’s Ginza district.

Held during the Tokyo International Film Festival, this year’s THR Japan gala event was an even hotter ticket than in 2023, with a veritable who’s who of Japan’s film industry, as well as sprinkling of sports legends and local celebs, who all graced the red carpet to join the celebrations to honor Shogun star Tadanobu Asano, the first Japanese recipient of THR’s Trailblazer Award.

The Trailblazer Award is given to artists whose work and careers illuminate stories and characters who have been traditionally marginalized in Hollywood. Since his debut on Japanese television as a 16-year-old, Asano’s career has taken him from Hirokazu Koreeda’s Maborosi to...

Good times were had and millions were raised at MPTF’s 18th annual Evening Before fundraiser.

The starry event, held at Century Park in Los Angeles on Saturday night, raked in $2.5 million to support the Motion Picture and Television Fund’s programs and services on the Wasserman Campus in Woodland Hills while hosting a who’s who of Emmy nominees, winners and A-list Hollywood insiders on the eve of TV’s biggest night. Century Park was reimagined as a “relaxed town square” by Studio Komorebi complete with carnival games and food stations with a menu provided by L.A. food stars Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo and their Carmelized Prods.

A long list of stars rubbed shoulders with Evening Before co-chairs Greg Berlanti and Robbie Rogers, Jon Hamm and Anna Osceola Hamm, and Sheryl Lee Ralph. Those on the scene included Eric André, Awkwafina, Justin Baldoni, Alex Borstein, Alison Brie,...

Japan-born actor Yuki Kedoin has signed with Artist International Group and will be repped by Ian Stack and Kimberly Hines.

Kedoin most recently can be seen playing the role of Takemaru in all ten episodes of the FX/Hulu series “Shogun” (2024). The series received 25 nominations for the 2024 Emmy Awards.

“Yuki has had an extraordinary year showcasing his talent to the world. We are thrilled to support him as his career continues to flourish,” Stack said. “With a prolific career spanning theatre, independent film, and now television, Yuki’s artistry is undeniable. Partnering with him to expand his international opportunities is a natural fit.”

Before the success of Shogun, Kedoin made notable appearances in films and TV series, including “The Manga Master” and Netflix’s “The Naked Director.”

Since 2018, Kedoin has played an important role in the Promising Next-Generation Actor Cultivation Program operated by the government of Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs,...

The entire world has caught "Shōgun" fever and FX seems to have taken notice. Despite originally announcing the show back in 2018 specifically as a miniseries, the critical acclaim and sheer popularity (not to mention the very high quality of writing) of the show apparently might have resulted in a change of plans. Only a few short weeks after the season finale aired and brought a fitting (if deliberately anticlimactic) end to the sweeping story of Japanese warlords embroiled in political conflict, we've now received word that this limited series might not end up being so "limited" after all. If -- and it's admittedly a big "if" -- everything falls into place, season 2 could very well be in the cards.

Early indications are pointing to another thrilling return to feudal Japan with some of our favorite (and not-so-favorite) characters in tow. Deadline has revealed that lead actor/producer Hiroyuki Sanada has...

The following contains spoilers for Shogun episode 10

Creators Kondo and Marks chose not to show the war in Shogun episode 10, reflecting the original book's narrative style. The decision was made not because of budget constraints, but to stay true to the story's essence and focus. Toranaga's line in the show highlights the theme of those eager for battle often not truly understanding its hardships.

Show creators Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks explain why Shogun episode 10 ends without showing the actual war. An epic season of television wrapped up Tuesday with a stirring finale, as Toranaga’s plan to outwit Ishido and establish himself as the new shogun finally came to fruition. The final season 1 episode indeed focused on the resolution of Toranaga’s behind-the-scenes maneuvering, and on the personal journey of John Blackthorne, but ended without depicting the inevitable war between Toranaga and Ishido.

Ending Shogun season 1 without showing the...

This article contains spoilers from Shōgun season 1, episode 10.

Shgun co-creator explains the final shot in the finale, with Blackthorne and Buntaro finally overcoming their intense feud. Buntaro helps Blackthorne to recover his damaged ship in the finale's final moments.

Shōgun co-creator Justin Marks and staff writer Emily Yoshida explain the final scene featuring John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) and his interaction with Toda "Buntaro" Hirokatsu (Shinnosuke Abe). Despite their hostility towards each other throughout the series, much of which was rooted in their feelings for Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai), the rivals appear to end the series on a positive note.

As explained by Marks and Yoshida in FX's official podcast breakdown of the finale, the closing moments of the finale see Blackthorne with a new purpose and a fresh start, part of which is his newfound relationship with Buntaro. Read Marks and Yoshida's comments below:

Marks: As Blackthorne stood on...

Warning! Spoilers ahead for Shōgun episode 9.

Co-creator Rachel Kondo and star Anna Sawai highlight the importance of complicated dynamic between Mariko and Ochiba in Shgun episode 9 and the show more generally. Using poetry, Mariko foreshadows her own sacrifice by stressing that death is what makes life beautiful and gives it meaning. There is historical basis in Mariko's poem, as it was left behind by the character's real-life inspiration, Hosokawa Gracia.

Shōgun co-creator Rachel Kondo and Mariko actor Anna Sawai explain the meaning of Mariko's poem, touching on the character's relationship with Ochiba. Co-created by Justin Marks, the acclaimed FX historical drama, which adapts the 1975 novel by James Clavell, is now nearing its conclusion. Episode 9, "Crimson Sky," sees Mariko and Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) head to Osaka Castle where she reunites with childhood friend Ochiba (Fumi Nikaido) before ultimately sacrificing herself in the service of Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada).

In a recent...

The following contains spoilers for Shogun episode 9.

Mariko's fate in Shogun episode 9 took a shocking turn as she seemingly chose an honorable death. Will Toranaga be surprised by Mariko's death? Anna Sawai discusses Toranaga's reaction. Despite Mariko's sacrifice, Toranaga will likely continue with his intricate plan in the season finale.

Shogun star Anna Sawai explains how Lord Toranaga will react to Lady Mariko's shocking episode 9 fate. Sent by Lord Toranaga on an important mission to Osaka, Mariko in episode 9 finally comes face-to-face with Ishido and Lady Ochiba, revealing her true role in Toranaga’s intricate plan. Things take a shocking twist, however, when Mariko is cornered along with Blackthorne, Yabushige and Toranaga’s wives, and seemingly chooses an honorable death by sacrificing herself to save the others.

Shogun episode 9’s ending cliffhanger left the door open a crack on Mariko surviving, but it seems that she finally got the death she was longing for,...

Warning! Major spoilers ahead for Shōgun episode 9.

Anna Sawai explains that Mariko chooses to sacrifice her life in Shgun episode 9 in service to Lord Toranaga. Mariko experiences "clarity" in her final moments as she fights for a cause greater than herself. Sawai is happy with how Mariko's arc played out.

Shōgun star Anna Sawai explains why Mariko makes the shocking decision she does during the episode 9 ending. After eight previous episodes adapting James Clavell's 1975 novel of the same name, Shōgun episode 9 sees Mariko and Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) trapped in Osaka and under attacked by shinobi. The episode ends with Mariko, unwilling to be captured, sacrificing herself in service of Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada).

In a recent interview with Screen Rant, Sawai breaks down why Mariko chooses death in Shōgun episode 9. Check out her comment below:

“But it's funny, because I had seen the whole thing, and I knew that...

Warning! Spoilers ahead for Shōgun episode 8.

The following article contains discussion of suicide.

Shgun's depiction of seppuku in the show is somewhat exaggerated. The term "seppuku" likely wouldn't have been used by figures in the time period the show depicts. Seppuku is more commonly associated with major treason when a person was likely going to be executed anyway.

A historian analyzes the accuracy of Shōgun's depiction of seppuku. Loosely based on real events and serving as an adaptation of a novel by James Clavell, Shōgun follows Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) and English sailor John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) as they become unlikely allies in a larger struggle for power in feudal Japan. The show doesn't shy away from depicting violence on screen, including seppuku, a form of ritual suicide in which a disgraced warrior will disembowel themselves before then being beheaded.

In a recent interview with Time, Princeton University professor Thomas...

Warning! Major spoilers ahead for Shōgun episode 9.

Director Fred Toye breaks down the violent ending in Shgun episode 9, focusing on Mariko's sacrifice and the subtle action executed. The finale sets the stage for historical context, highlighting Mariko's role and sacrifice in Japanese history. Through Mariko's sacrifice, the episode showcases the impact on Blackthorne, Toranaga, and the larger historical events.

Shōgun episode 9 director Fred Toye breaks down that violent ending with the Shinobi and how it sets the stage for the finale episode. Serving as an adaptation of the 1975 novel of the same name by James Clavell, Shōgun follows a series of lords and ladies in feudal Japan as they battle for power following the death of the Taikō. The show's penultimate episode focuses mostly on Mariko (Anna Sawai) and Blackthorne's (Cosmo Jarvis) time in Osaka, and the episode ends with Sawai's character dying in an explosion during a Shinobi attack.

Shogun's VFX supervisor sees parallels with Game of Thrones, but believes his show can "stand on its own." Shogun has an advantage over GoT with a single novel adaptation, avoiding issues from progressing past source material. Shogun, an FX original miniseries, set in 17th Century Japan, stars Cosmo Jarvis and Hiroyuki Sanada.

Comparisons between Shogun and Game of Thrones are addressed by a VFX supervisor. Based on the novel by James Clavell, FX’s historical drama brings to life the world of feudal Japan, through a story filled with both subtle political maneuvering and large-scale military action. Even before the show’s premiere, Shogun was drawing comparisons to HBO’s Game of Thrones, another series that toggled back and forth between epic battle scenes and dialog-driven palace intrigue.

Such comparisons may indeed have been inevitable, but Shogun VFX supervisor Michael Cliett doesn’t think they are entirely accurate, exclusively...

A trailer for Shgun episode 9 has been released, teasing the enactment of Toranaga's "Crimson Sky" plan. The trailer reveals that Mariko taking control of Osaka will be a central plot point in the new episode. Episode 9 is the penultimate episode Shgun.

Shōgun episode 9, "Crimson Sky," is shown off in a new trailer, teasing Mariko taking charge in Osaka. Based on James Clavell's Shōgun novel, the FX historical drama premiered in February, earning positive reviews from both audiences and critics. The series, which will feature 10 episodes in total, continues to ramp up the tension each week as Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) faces off against his political rivals in feudal Japan.

Following the surprising Shōgun episode 8 ending, FX Networks has released the first trailer for episode 9, the show's penultimate. Check it out below:

More to come...

Source: FX Networks

Shogun 8/10

Shogun is an FX original mini-series set in 17th Century Japan.

Warning! Spoilers ahead for Shōgun episode 8.

Director Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour reveals that the idea for the final lines in Shgun episode 8 were Hiroyuki Sanada's idea. The moment at Nagakado's grave adds clarity to Toranaga's plan and helps establish that he's "lost everything." Toranaga is now more committed to Crimson Sky than ever before.

Shōgun episode 8 director Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour breaks down the final scenes of the shocking episode. Based on a novel of the same name by James Clavell, Shōgun follows the struggle for power in feudal Japan after the death of the Taikō. The latest episode picks up after the death of Lord Toranaga's (Hiroyuki Sanada) son, and features another surprise demise, with Hiromatsu (Tokuma Nishioka) committing seppuku after a disagreement with his lord. The episode ends with Toranaga thanking both his son and Hiromatsu for giving him more time to enact his plan.

During a recent appearance on FX's Shōgun: The Official Podcast,...

The following contains spoilers for Shogun episode 7

Shogun episode 7's betrayal drew comparisons to GoT's Red Wedding, but a show co-creator explains it was actually inspired by The Empire Strikes Back. Toranaga's Crimson Sky plan was stopped by Saeki's treason and Council of Regents alliance, leaving Toranaga facing surrender. The sense of dread in the episode is also likened to the classic Western High Noon.

Comparisons between Shogun episode 7's shocking betrayal and Game of Thrones' infamous Red Wedding scene are addressed by a series co-creator. Toranaga's Crimson Sky plan was left in shambles after his half-brother Saeki revealed himself to be a traitor who had secretly allied himself with the Council of Regents, leaving Toranaga's encamped army surrounded and Toranaga facing the prospect of surrender. So stunning was Saeki's betrayal that the episode has drawn comparisons to the Red Wedding, the unforgettable GoT moment when Lord Walder Frey...

The following contains spoilers for Shogun episode 7

Toranaga faces a major setback after betrayal at the hands of his brother, leaving his plan to attack Osaka uncertain and his fate in question. The shocking twist of Nagakado's accidental death raises the stakes for Toranaga, forcing him to consider surrender or survival. As Toranaga grieves for his son and contemplates his next move, the future of his grand plans hangs in the balance.

The series creator discusses the dramatic Shogun episode 7 ending and how it will affect Toranaga and his grand plans. The latest episode of FX's acclaimed period-set drama series ended with a shocking twist. After Toranaga was betrayed by his brother Saeki, leading to his army becoming surrounded, Toranaga's ever-eager son Nagakado attempted to attack the traitor at the tea house, with help from Kiku, but accidentally died in the process when tripping over a rock.

This tragic...

Shōgun is a historical drama miniseries created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks. The FX series is based on a novel of the same name by James Clavell, it is set in Japan in the year 1600 and it follows the story of two ambitious men Lord Yoshii Toranaga, powerful daimyō, who is being targeted by his political rivals, and John Blackthorne, an English sailor with a mysterious past who might be able of help to him.

Shōgun has already become FX’s biggest Hulu premiere with 9 million views. The historical drama has something for everyone including beautiful cinematography, violence, and a brilliantly written political narrative.

Shōgun – Episode Guide (When Will the New Episodes Air) Credit – FX

Shōgun consists of ten episodes in total. The historical political drama series premiered on Hulu with its two episodes on February 27, with the rest coming out weekly on Tuesday. Check out the full episode...

This list contains some discussions of disturbing violence.

Brutal deaths serve as a prelude to the serious tone of Shgun and indicate the risks characters face. Shocking violence quickly establishes grim atmospheres in shows like Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead. Disturbing acts in the first episode set the tone for TV series across multiple genres, from historical drama to horror.

Some of the scariest TV shows of all time establish their dark tone from the very first episode. This might (and often does) include one or more deaths in the Pilot, to prove that real danger exists in the setting. However, there are other ways to immediately convey a serious atmosphere, including utilizing the tried and true conventions of the genre, or leveraging what the audience already knows about previously established characters.

Game of Thrones famously advertised itself as being the show where anyone can die, even the main characters.

FX's Shgun has earned a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The show is based on the James Clavell novel of the same name and follows political upheaval in 17th-century Japan. The prestige drama is receiving Game of Thrones-level hype.

Shōgun has accomplished a rare Rotten Tomatoes achievement. The upcoming FX historical drama is based on the 1975 James Clavell novel of the same name and follows political upheaval in 17th-century Japan after the English sailor John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) is shipwrecked on the nation's shores and becomes entangled in the lives of daimyo Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada​​​​​​​) and samurai Toda Mariko​​​​​​​ (Anna Sawai). This new version of the iconic story was co-created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks.

Rotten Tomatoes has calculated an official critic score for the new Shōgun show. Now that 17 different critics have weighed in, the title has earned a perfect 100% score. While its score...

"We must protect Japan against treachery." FX & Hulu have revealed one final official trailer for Shōgun, created by writers Justin Marks & Rachel Kondo. This looks like it's going to be amazingly good! A saga of war, passion, and power set in Feudal Japan. Launching for streaming at the end of this month. From James Clavell's novel, FX’s Shōgun series is set at the dawn of a century-defining civil war. Lord Yoshii Toranaga is fighting for his life as his enemies on the Council of Regents unite against him, when a mysterious European ship is found in a nearby fishing village. The series follows the main character of John Blackthorne, a sailor who rises from outsider to samurai, while being used as a pawn in Japanese leader Toranaga's struggle to reach the top. Hiroyuki Sanada stars as Yoshii Toranaga, co-starring with Cosmo Jarvis as Blackthorne, along with a massive ensemble: Tadanobu Asano,...

Screen Rant offers a BTS first look clip from FX's Shgun. The show follows the character John Blackthorne, played by Cosmo Jarvis, as he becomes a samurai and gets caught up in political conflicts. The BTS first look clip showcases the stunning sets, locations, and costumes, highlighting the ambition and grand scope of the show.

FX’s limited historical drama series Shōgun is set to bring feudal Japan to life, and Screen Rant is here with a BTS first look clip to show how it was done. The historical drama series is an adaptation of James Clavell’s novel of the same name, which was released in 1975. It was created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks, the latter of which is known for his work writing films like Top Gun: Maverick and 2016’s The Jungle Book.

Screen Rant is excited to debut a BTS first look clip detailing the story and creation of Shōgun.

"My men are eager... to spill blood by you side!" Don't miss this trailer! FX & Hulu have unveiled a full-on, two-minute red band trailer for Shōgun, created by writers Justin Marks & Rachel Kondo. A saga of war, passion, and power set in Feudal Japan. This looks so awesome!! From James Clavell's novel, FX’s Shōgun is set at the dawn of a century-defining civil war. Lord Yoshii Toranaga is fighting for his life as his enemies on the Council of Regents unite against him, when a mysterious European ship is found in a nearby fishing village. It follows John Blackthorne, a sailor who rises from outsider to samurai, while being used as a pawn in Japanese leader Toranaga's struggle to reach the top. Hiroyuki Sanada stars as Yoshii Toranaga, co-starring with Cosmo Jarvis as Blackthorne, and a massive ensemble: Tadanobu Asano, Anna Sawai, Yûki Kedôin, Eushin Lee, Tommy Bastow,...

"Death is in our air... and sea and earth. It can come for us at any moment." Damn. FX & Hulu revealed another short new 60-second trailer for the epic historical series Shōgun, created by writers Justin Marks & Rachel Kondo. A saga of war, passion, and power set in Feudal Japan. From James Clavell's novel of the same name, FX’s Shōgun is set at the dawn of a century-defining civil war. Lord Yoshii Toranaga is fighting for his life as his enemies on the Council of Regents unite against him, when a mysterious European ship is found in a nearby fishing village. It follows John Blackthorne, a sailor who rises from outsider to samurai, while being used as a pawn in Japanese leader Toranaga's struggle to reach the top of Shogun. Hiroyuki Sanada stars as Yoshii Toranaga, co-starring with Cosmo Jarvis as Blackthorne, and a massive ensemble: Tadanobu Asano,...

"Life & death are the same. Both can have value & purpose." FX & Hulu have revealed an official trailer for an epic new historical series called Shōgun, created by writers Justin Marks & Rachel Kondo. An epic saga of war, passion, and power set in Feudal Japan. From James Clavell's novel of the same name, FX’s Shōgun is set at the dawn of a century-defining civil war. Lord Yoshii Toranaga is fighting for his life as his enemies on the Council of Regents unite against him, when a mysterious European ship is found in a nearby fishing village. Set in the 17th Century, it follows John Blackthorne, a sailor who rises from outsider to samurai, while being used as a pawn in Japanese leader Toranaga's struggle to reach the top of the ruling chain, or Shogun. The novel was previously adapted into a 1980 TV series, now with another fresh update. Hiroyuki Sanada stars as Yoshii Toranaga,...