Experience the journey of bringing Shogun from page to screen through the eyes of Hiroyuki Sanada, the leading man in FX’s ambitious Japanese period drama. After a career that began in his childhood, Sanada takes on a new role as a producer in addition to starring as Lord Yoshii Toranaga in the adaptation of James Clavell’s celebrated 1975 novel. The actor shares his insights on the process of creating an authentic script for modern audiences while avoiding stereotypes and misunderstandings.
Sanada worked closely with co-creators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo to ensure the involvement of Japanese actors and crew in the production. From meticulously checking props and costumes to providing guidance on set, Sanada was fully invested in the project. Despite the challenges of producing and acting simultaneously, he found joy in the process and felt a sense of reward when filming scenes.
The atmosphere on set was grand, with elaborate sets and real-size ships creating an immersive experience for the cast and crew. The scale of the production rivaled that of previous projects like “The Last Samurai,” but with the added benefit of cutting-edge technology. Even in postproduction, every detail was meticulously reviewed to maintain authenticity.
As the limited series unfolds, Sanada remains hopeful for future seasons, depending on the audience’s reaction. He emphasizes the importance of hiring specialists from various cultures to create authentic storytelling. With Shogun receiving positive reviews from both Western and Japanese audiences, Sanada is optimistic about the show’s impact on inclusivity in the industry.
The 10-episode series is available to stream on Hulu and Disney+, with new episodes releasing weekly on Tuesdays. Sanada’s passion for the project shines through, reflecting his dedication to creating a show that resonates with a global audience.
