The story of Lord Yoshii Toranaga will continue.
FX and Hulu announced Thursday that the critically acclaimed series “Shōgun” has been renewed. The network and its streaming partner are working with the estate of the novel's author, James Clavell, to develop material for what will “likely” be two additional seasons of the historical drama, according to the announcement.
The news was expected after reports that star and producer Hiroyuki Sanada, who plays Toranaga, had closed a deal to return to the series, which has been a ratings hit. There were also awards rumors about the likelihood of “Shōgun” competing in the drama categories, rather than limited series, at the upcoming Emmys.
Co-creators and executive producers Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo will return along with Sanada, as well as executive producer Michaela Clavell. While there were no firm details on the expected timing of the show's return, the announcement said that the writers' room is meeting to begin work this summer.
Set in feudal Japan, “Shōgun” follows the rise of Toranaga (Sanada) from political pariah to eventual military ruler of the island country. The 10-episode first season focused on a main trio that included Toranaga, shipwrecked English pilot John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), and performer Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai). The series has been acclaimed for its authenticity in portraying Japanese history and culture, from its cast to how most of the dialogue is in Japanese.
The first season covered all the events of Clavell's 1975 novel, so it's unclear exactly how the story will continue. Maybe the big battle that Toranaga hinted at in the season finale will get more attention.
