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In a groundbreaking moment for Japanese television, the series "Shogun" made Emmy history on September 15, 2024, clinching an unprecedented 18 awards at the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles. The feudal-era drama became the first non-English language series to win Best Drama, catapulting Japanese talent into the global spotlight.
Hiroyuki Sanada, portraying Lord Toranaga, and Anna Sawai, as Lady Mariko, made history as the first Japanese actors to win Emmys for lead roles. Their victories sparked a wave of national pride, with "historic achievements" and "Hiroyuki Sanada" trending on Japanese social media platforms.
Despite the accolades, a curious phenomenon emerged: many Japanese citizens admitted to not having watched the series. Kiyoko Kanda, a 70-year-old Tokyo resident, expressed her joy for Sanada's win but confessed, "I only watched the trailer." This sentiment was echoed by others, highlighting a disconnect between the show's international success and its domestic viewership.
The limited availability of "Shogun" on Disney's streaming platform, relatively new to the Japanese market, contributed to this disparity. However, the Emmy sweep has ignited curiosity among locals. Yusuke Takizawa, 41, remarked outside Osaka Castle, a key filming location, "I was impressed by the high-spirited acting, the attention to detail, and the film technology."
International tourists visiting Japan have also been drawn to the series. Zara Ferjani, a 33-year-old Londoner, shared her enthusiasm: "I think [it] was the best TV show that I've seen this year. The direction was beautiful, and I really enjoyed watching something that wasn't in English as well."
Industry experts predict that "Shogun's" success could open doors for more Japanese talent in Hollywood. While Takizawa affirmed, "I think many young people will want to try their hand in Hollywood after watching Sanada."
The series' triumph has not only brought pride to Japan but has also sparked discussions about cultural representation and the global appeal of non-English content. As more Japanese viewers seek out the show, "Shogun" stands poised to bridge the gap between international acclaim and domestic appreciation, potentially reshaping the landscape of Japanese television on the world stage.
