The creative minds behind the acclaimed series Shogun were in high spirits as they celebrated a historic night at the Emmys, sweeping major awards including Best Actor and Best Actress. During an exclusive interview, the cast and crew reflected on their unexpected success and the journey that brought them to this pivotal moment.

“I’m just so grateful,” one team member expressed, still in disbelief at the accolades. The excitement was palpable as they reminisced about the early days in the writer’s room, where the focus was simply on enjoying the story they were telling. “We were just having fun,” they recalled, noting how the blend of humor and poignancy resonated deeply with audiences around the world.

The series, which features approximately 70% Japanese dialogue, has broken barriers, demonstrating that diverse storytelling can indeed captivate global viewers. Anna Sawai, one of the stars, shared her initial hesitations about taking on a project like Shogun, but she ultimately recognized its potential for something truly special. “I wanted to challenge myself, and this show was it,” she said, highlighting her dedication to portraying her character authentically.

As the conversation shifted to their rigorous preparation for the series, the cast spoke of the intense training they underwent for the fight scenes, a testament to their commitment to delivering a realistic and engaging experience for viewers. Hiroyuki Sanada noted the importance of balancing Western and Japanese influences throughout production, fostering collaboration that brought the series to life.

Reflecting on their achievements, the team emphasized the significance of cultural appreciation and personal growth throughout the process. “I learned so much about Japanese culture,” Anna remarked, sharing her newfound understanding of subtlety and appreciation within traditional practices like the tea ceremony.

As they bask in the glory of their Emmy wins, the Shogun team is eager to continue telling impactful stories that resonate across cultures.