At the 2024 Emmys, Asian representation achieved a historic milestone with "Shogun" stars Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada winning the top drama awards. Sawai won Best Lead Actress, becoming the first actress of Asian descent to achieve this honour. Sanada earned Best Lead Actor, marking him as the first Japanese actor and only the second Asian actor to win in this category.
Sawai, known for her role as Lady Mariko in the FX series, was emotional and grateful during her acceptance speech. She thanked the Academy, her co-creators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo, and the entire "Shogun" team. Her win is celebrated as a significant moment for Asian actresses in Hollywood, especially as she competed against well-known actresses like Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon.
Sanada, who portrayed Yoshii Toranaga, expressed his pride and appreciation for receiving his award from actor Steven Yeun. He thanked FX, Disney, and Hulu for their support and highlighted the collaborative spirit of "Shogun" as a testament to what can be achieved when different cultures come together.
The FX series "Shogun," based on James Clavell's novel, has been a major success, winning 14 awards at the Creative Arts Emmys and setting a record with 25 nominations. The show has been praised for its portrayal of Asian culture and its impressive performance in multiple categories.
Both Sawai and Sanada’s wins are seen as a significant step forward for Asian actors in the entertainment industry, following the success of "Squid Game," which was also recognized for its groundbreaking representation. With plans for two more seasons, "Shogun" continues to push boundaries and pave the way for greater inclusivity in television.
