'Shogun' Starring Hiroyuki Sanada Leads with 25 Emmy Nods

The TV series Shogun, starring acclaimed actor Hiroyuki Sanada, has made headlines for landing 25 Emmy nominations. The Emmy Awards are the highest honors given for outstanding achievements in television in the United States. Sanada was also one of the producers of the series.

From Child Actor to Global Star

Sanada's acting career, which began in childhood, spans several decades and includes period dramas, contemporary dramas, television, film, and stage performances. He is now one of the most recognizable Japanese actors globally. His work is distinguished by his background as an action star, his refined stage combat skills, and the traditional Japanese movements he has perfected through classical dance.

Born in Tokyo in 1960, Sanada began acting at age five. He joined the Japan Action Club (JAC), founded by actor and martial artist Shinichi (Sonny) Chiba, at age 13. During that time, he also trained in traditional Japanese dance, achieving the rank of natori (professional status). Sanada mastered the fundamentals of Japanese martial arts and traditional wear from a young age.

The actor made his film debut in 1978 with Shogun's Samurai, directed by Kinji Fukasaku. He landed his first lead role in Shogun's Ninja (1980) at 20. Sanada's distinctive look, impressive physicality, and refined movements quickly drew attention. He solidified his status as a top actor with leading roles in films such as Sharaku (1995), The Twilight Samurai (2002), and Aegis (2005). He also played leading roles in TV series like Taiheiki (1991) and Koko Kyoshi (1993).

Breakthrough in the UK

Sanada's career took a significant turn in 1999 when he became the first Asian actor to appear in the Royal Shakespeare Company's production of King Lear. Performing the role of the fool in English, this experience marked a pivotal moment in his international career. He later remarked to The Sankei Shimbun that "it felt like different cultures stimulating each other" and that it was "both enjoyable and challenging."

In 2003, Sanada played the role of Ujio in the Hollywood film The Last Samurai, portraying a samurai deeply committed to the bushido spirit. Despite being a supporting role, his presence rivaled that of the lead actor, Tom Cruise. The film's global success led Sanada to move to Hollywood.

Championing Japanese Culture Abroad

Sanada has continued to make an impact internationally, appearing as an antagonist to Jackie Chan in Rush Hour 3 (2007). In 2013, he starred in 47 Ronin, a film based on a fictionalized account of the Ako vendetta or 47 ronin incident.

As a "representative of Japanese culture," Sanada offers his insights to directors, set designers, and fight choreographers to achieve natural portrayals of Japanese characters.

In Shogun, which currently has 10 episodes, Sanada stars as Lord Yoshii Toranaga. The series also marks his debut as a producer. As a member of the production team, he pursues an authentic representation of Japan's Sengoku (Warring States) period, even inviting Japanese period drama experts to the set.

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(Read the article in Japanese.)

Author: The Sankei Shimbun