Anna Sawai, the Emmy-winning star of Shogun, has firmly stated that she does not wish to reprise her role as Mariko in the show’s upcoming season. While fans have been clamoring for Mariko’s return, Sawai believes that her character’s arc has been concluded in a perfect manner.
Anna Sawai Believes Mariko’s Arc is Complete
Anna Sawai. Image Credit: FX Network
Anna Sawai, star of Shogun, has become the subject of much discussion as fans speculate about the possible return of her character, Mariko, in Season 2. Despite Mariko’s tragic demise in the first season, the character has continued to capture the imagination of viewers, who have developed numerous theories about how she could make a comeback. However, Sawai has expressed her belief that Mariko’s storyline has reached its natural conclusion.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, on being questioned about the possibility of Mariko’s reappearance in Shogun Season 2, Sawai acknowledged the fan theories, some of which even suggested creative twists for her return, such as portraying a ghost or an evil twin.”People always joke about it,” she said. “They’re like, ‘You can be a ghost or the evil twin sister.’”
However, she made it clear that bringing Mariko back was not something she favored, saying, “…Honestly, if it were up to me, I wouldn’t try to bring her back. Why ruin something that was so perfect?” She emphasized that forcing the character into the narrative could harm the story, adding, “People die, and life goes on.”
Sawai’s decision not to reprise Mariko stems from her respect for the storyline’s natural progression. While she had previously hinted that returning to the role could be a dream scenario, she ultimately recognized that Mariko’s arc had concluded in the best possible way. The showrunners also appear to be moving forward, focusing on expanding the arcs of other main characters like Toranaga and Blackthorne, with actor Hiroyuki Sanada noting the rich history that remains to be explored in Season 2.
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Though the idea of Mariko’s return may have sparked excitement among fans, Sawai’s commitment to preserving the integrity of the story reflects her understanding of the show’s broader vision. Season 2 promises to delve deeper into the historical roots of Toranaga, allowing the narrative to evolve beyond its initial chapters.
Anna Sawai On her Emmy Win
Anna Sawai. Image Credit: FX Network
Speaking about her recent Emmy win, Sawai expressed her overwhelming gratitude and pride for her recognition. She admitted that the experience was incredibly emotional for her.
She admitted that the recognition was overwhelming, saying, “I think it was just wanting it for the team and being so proud, but also not knowing if the nominees were going to win.“
With her first Emmy win, Sawai became the first actress of Asian descent to win in the lead actress in a drama series category at the Emmys.
Shogun is streaming on Hulu.
