Hiroyuki Sanada of “SHOGUN” says season 2 decision is “for the next generation of Japanese people” – “It's a great opportunity for young actors and staff” | THE RIVER

Originally produced as a limited series (one season only)“SHOGUN”The decision to renew the series for a second season has earned it 11 nominations in the drama series category at the upcoming Emmy Awards. The decision to renew the series for a second season was likely made as a strategic decision to compete for the Emmy Awards as a “drama series” rather than a “limited series”, but this was also due to the fact that the series was led by lead actor and executive producerHiroyuki SanadaHe also seemed to have strong feelings as a “Japanese producer.”

“SHOGUN” is a grand war drama based on the novel of the same name by James Clavell. Inspired by historical figures and events, the story is set in Japan on the eve of the Battle of Sekigahara, and depicts the plots and schemes surrounding the conquest of the country.

In an interview with Deadline, Sanada once again reflected that there were no plans for a second season at first. “We had exhausted the original novel in season 1, so we hadn't really thought about a second season. So, naturally, I accepted it as a miniseries (limited series). Also, as an actor, I thought, 'I've done everything I can. It's over.'”

However, he felt that he had an important mission not as an actor but as a producer.I think it's very important to maintain this platform for the next generation of Japanese staff and cast members.When I first came to live in Los Angeles 20 years ago, I felt there was a big wall between East and West, so one of my missions was to break down that wall and build a bridge for the next generation.”

The worldwide success of “SHOGUN” seems to have given him the chance to fulfill that mission. “We have a great opportunity to produce another season. There is no need to stop it just because of my opinion as an actor.As a producer, I told myself as an actor, “We should continue this for the next generation. That's why we decided to leave the opportunity to make seasons 2 and 3. This is a great opportunity for the young actors and staff.“

Regarding the outlook for Season 2, he commented, “There is no longer an original work, but that means freedom for the writers. There is history. There are real people who are models, and we know what happened. History is full of episodes. While respecting (James) Clavell and incorporating his style, the writers will be free to create original stories. I'm very interested, and I can't wait to read their first drafts.”

Script writing for “SHOGUN” season 2 has already begun, and according to FX CEO John Landgraf, the writers' room is “having fun” working on it. Filming is scheduled to begin in early 2025 and last for 200 days. Taking into account the editing work that will follow, it is expected to be released around 2026.

Source: Deadline