“Shōgun” Takes SAG Stage: Hiroyuki Sanada Celebrates Diversity and Bold Storytelling in Acting
Hold onto your kimonos, folks! “Shōgun,” FX’s lavish adaptation of the classic 1975 novel by James Clavell, just snatched up the award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards, and can we get a round of applause?! The show trounced the competition, leaving big names like “Bridgerton,” “The Day of the Jackal,” “The Diplomat,” and “Slow Horses” in the dust. The series, richly set against the backdrop of feudal Japan in the 1600s, has managed to strike a chord with audiences — and now it’s officially recognized by its peers in Hollywood.
As the cast gathered to accept the honor, star Hiroyuki Sanada took a moment to express his gratitude, emphasizing the significance of the award coming from a diverse group of industry professionals. Sanada highlighted how groundbreaking the show is, boasting a cast that was 70% Japanese and featuring subtitles. “Acting is a universal language,” he declared, raising a toast to the show’s brave creative team who gambled on this culturally rich storytelling. This is not just a win for the series but also a major victory for representation in Hollywood. As Sanada pointed out, this recognition signals that bold narratives can resonate on a global scale.
And here’s a fun twist: Season two promises to straddle the line between historical fidelity and creative license, expanding beyond the original source material. “They’ve given us the freedom to create something original,” said Sanada, hinting at an exciting future for fans.
Meanwhile, let’s not forget the competition. “Bridgerton,” Netflix’s steamy period drama, also had its eyes set on glory, garnering buzz for its third season showcasing a romantic journey between Penelope Bridgerton and Colin Bridgerton. The cast strived to maintain authenticity in those oh-so-intimate scenes, indicating the intense preparation that went into their chemistry.
In a competitive awards season filled with remarkable talent and storytelling, “Shōgun” has asserted that cultural storytelling can shine brightly, making waves in the industry and perhaps reshaping how we view television narratives. If Sanada’s passionate acceptance speech is any indication, we’re only just scratching the surface of what this series can offer in the future! Get ready for more groundbreaking episodes that celebrate diverse stories.
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety
