Anna Sawai made history at the 2024 Emmy Awards by becoming the first Asian actress to win the Best Drama Actress Emmy for her role in the FX series Shogun. Sawai’s powerful portrayal of Toda Mariko in the historical epic earned her the prestigious honor, marking a significant milestone in Emmy history.
Sawai’s win came amidst fierce competition from notable nominees, including Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, both from Apple TV’s The Morning Show, Carrie Coon from HBO’s The Gilded Age, Maya Erskine from Amazon’s Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and Imelda Staunton from Netflix’s The Crown.
Star Anna Sawai Speech
During her acceptance speech, Sawai expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who supported her journey, particularly acknowledging her mother. “Thank you, John Landgraf and the entire FX team, for believing in our story. To Justin and Rachel, thank you for giving me this role of a lifetime,” she said. Sawai added, “Mom, I love you. You showed me stoicism, and that’s how I was able to portray it. This is for all the women who expect nothing and continue to lead by example.
This was Sawai’s first Emmy nomination and win. She has previously appeared in popular TV series such as Pachinko and Monarch, as well as films including F9 and Ninja Assassin. Her rise to fame has been marked by her diverse range of roles and growing acclaim within the entertainment industry.
About Shogun
Shogun proved to be a dominant force at this year’s Emmys, securing 25 nominations and cementing its status as the most-nominated series of the night. Based on the James Clavell novel of the same name, Shogun is set in 17th-century Japan and follows political intrigue within the country’s ruling class. Sawai’s character, Toda Mariko, plays a pivotal role in the brewing civil conflict among Japan’s regents.
In addition to Sawai’s win, Shogun star Hiroyuki Sanada, who portrayed Lord Yoshii Toranaga, also earned his first Emmy for Best Actor in a Drama Series. The night concluded with Shogun taking home the coveted Outstanding Drama Series award, solidifying its place as a standout in television this year.
With Sawai’s historic win and Shogun’s sweeping success, the night will be remembered as a groundbreaking moment for representation and storytelling in Hollywood.
