Hiroyuki Sanada on the Idea of Filming ‘Shogun’ Season 2 in Japan: “We Are Finding the Possibilities”

Hiroyuki Sanada on the Idea of Filming ‘Shogun’ Season 2 in Japan: “We Are Finding the Possibilities”

As a seasoned gamer and ardent fan of historical dramas, I can hardly contain my excitement for the second season of Shōgun! Having spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of pre-modern Japan, I can attest to the fact that the series’ authenticity is a testament to the painstaking efforts of its creators.


[This story contains spoilers for season one of Shōgun.]

As a dedicated fan, I’m thrilled to share that the talented Hiroyuki Sanada, who brought life to his character in the smashing hit series “Shōgun“, has given us a tantalizing glimpse into the making of the show’s second season.

At The Hollywood Reporter’s and SAG-AFTRA’s Emmy Nominees Night gathering on a Friday, the actor was queried about the possibility of filming the forthcoming season in Japan. Previously, season one was shot in Canada as a result of COVID-19 restrictions.

He shared that we’re exploring potential options for the show, not all of it, but possibly some aspects of it,” he said.

Last month, I shared in an interview with THR that Vancouver was an ideal setting for Shogun, as it effectively stood in for pre-modern Japan due to its authentic ambiance.

As a gamer, I’m fortunate enough to work in a sprawling studio, nestled just 20 minutes away from an untouched paradise. Here, you won’t find any modern buildings or the tangles of wires and cables we’re used to. Instead, there’s a lush forest, serene river, and picturesque harbor, all untarnished by the trappings of modernity. It’s a rare gem in Japan where such natural beauty coexists so peacefully with the bustling cityscape – truly a gamer’s paradise amidst the chaos of modern life.

In May, it was revealed that FX and Hulu were planning two additional seasons for the hit drama series, which is an adaptation of James Clavell’s 1975 novel with the same title. The show, titled Shōgun, has now garnered a total of 25 Emmy nominations, making it the front-runner for this year’s awards ceremony to be held on Sunday. Moreover, Sanada received a nomination for best dramatic actor for his portrayal of Lord Yoshii Toranaga.

At Friday’s gathering, they posed a question about whether I, as a gamer, might still witness Anna Sawai reprise her role as Toda Mariko in the forthcoming season. Her character met her end for Lord Yoshii Toranaga in the ninth episode of Shōgun, titled “Crimson Sky.” When they floated the concept of Sawai returning as a spirit or through flashbacks, I playfully suggested, “Or perhaps twins?

Admitting he had no clue, the actor acknowledged, ‘No one else could pull off that role quite like her.’ I’m incredibly proud of her, and I hope we get another chance to work together. But, you never know.

Tiffany Taylor contributed to this story.

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2024-09-15 03:24