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VIRAL EXCLUSIVE
Oct. 2, 2024
Anna Sawai Became the First Asian Woman to Win Lead Actress in a Drama Series at the Emmy
Despite the emotional toll of playing such intense characters, Sawai finds fulfilment in bringing these stories to life.
Anna Sawai’s
recent Emmy win for her role as Lady Mariko in the historical drama Shōgun
marks a significant milestone in her career and for Asian representation in
Hollywood. Sawai became the first Asian woman to win the Lead Actress in a
Drama Series category, an achievement she describes as “surreal” and deeply
emotional.
In an
interview, Sawai shared her overwhelming feelings during the ceremony, noting
that she was an “emotional wreck” even before her name was called. The
highlight of her night was receiving a compliment from Kathy Bates, which she
found "mind-boggling". Sawai’s portrayal of Lady Mariko, a
strong-willed Japanese woman navigating a male-dominated society, resonated
with many and showcased her exceptional talent.
Sawai also
stars in another historical epic, Pachinko, where she plays Naomi, a
Japanese colleague and love interest of Solomon Baek. Both characters, Lady
Mariko and Naomi, share similarities in their repressed yet resilient nature.
Sawai reflects on these roles, noting that they both embody the struggles of
Japanese women in a patriarchal society. She believes that every Japanese woman
has a bit of Lady Mariko and Naomi in them, highlighting the universal
challenges faced by women in Japan.
Despite the
emotional toll of playing such intense characters, Sawai finds fulfilment in
bringing these stories to life. She emphasizes the importance of representation
and hopes her success will pave the way for more Asian actors in leading roles.
Sawai’s journey from her early career struggles to her historic Emmy win is a
testament to her perseverance and talent.
As she
continues to film the second season of Pachinko and other projects,
Sawai remains committed to portraying complex, nuanced characters. Her work not
only entertains but also sheds light on the rich, often overlooked histories of
Asian communities.
