Emmys Rivalry Turns to Floral Friendship: Anna Sawai & Kathy Bates Bond Over Awards Season
Talk about a bouquet of kindness! In an exclusive chat with People magazine, “Shōgun” star Anna Sawai spilled the tea on her blossoming friendship with the legendary Kathy Bates, following a competitive awards season that has kept fans on the edge of their seats. These two leading ladies have been going head-to-head for the coveted best actress in a TV drama award, and instead of letting the rivalry turn sour, they’ve embraced a “give them their flowers while they’re alive” philosophy—literally!
After Sawai snagged her win at the Emmys, Bates, 76, showered her with a beautiful bouquet, which Sawai, 32, returned in the form of flowers after Bates took home the Critics’ Choice Award. Sawai affectionately noted that she and Bates have even started texting, making Kathy a reliable source for advice. Who knew that fierce competition could bloom into a sweet mentorship?
The awards season as a whole has been lit, with Sawai confidently claiming the Golden Globe for the best performance by a female actor in a television series back in January. During her acceptance speech, she hilariously acknowledged Bates, stating, “I would vote for Kathy Bates any day,” prompting laughter from a packed audience of A-list co-stars. This playful nod underscores an unshakeable bond, even amid competition.
Of course, who could forget that iconic moment at the Emmys when Bates was caught on camera humorously ripping up her acceptance speech? That scene now feels a bit richer in the context of their newfound friendship—talk about drama! Most recently, at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, Sawai triumphed once again, beating out Bates (Yes, again!), along with other notable names like Nicola Coughlan and Allison Janney.
As if this epic saga couldn’t get any better, “Shōgun” is now available for streaming on Hulu. It’s a binge-worthy watch where Sawai shines as Toda Mariko, a mysterious translator in a historical setting alongside Hiroyuki Sanada’s Lord Yoshii Toranaga. The chemistry here isn’t just on-screen but spilling over into real life, proving that even rivalries can foster lifelong friendships in Hollywood.
So grab your popcorn and get ready, because this dynamic duo (who would’ve thought?) is redefining what it means to compete.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Variety, Entertainment Weekly
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