Hiroyuki Sanada continues to dominate the awards season with his latest victory at the Critics Choice Awards 2025, winning Best Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Yoshii Toranaga in FX’s Shōgun. The ceremony was held on February 7, 2025, at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. This win marks Sanada’s third major award this season, following his triumphs at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards and the Primetime Emmy Awards 2024.
Tough Competition and an Emotional Win
Sanada faced stiff competition from a stellar lineup of actors, including Jeff Bridges (The Old Man), Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who), Eddie Redmayne (The Day of the Jackal), Rufus Sewell (The Diplomat), and Antony Starr (The Boys). Despite the formidable contenders, Sanada’s nuanced portrayal in Shōgun earned him the coveted honor.
Taking the stage visibly moved, Sanada exclaimed, “Oh my gosh!”, before expressing his gratitude. He thanked FX, Disney, and Hulu—the networks responsible for bringing Shōgun to life under the direction of creators Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks. Reflecting on the journey of filming, Sanada admitted that he never anticipated such widespread recognition.
In his heartfelt speech, Sanada also acknowledged the Los Angeles firefighters for their heroic efforts in mitigating the recent devastating wildfires. He said, “You guys are my heroes,” dedicating part of his success to their resilience and bravery.
Historic Achievement for Japanese Actors
Sanada’s victory highlights a significant milestone for Japanese actors in Hollywood. With his powerful performance in Shōgun, he continues to break barriers and inspire audiences globally. Sanada has long been a respected figure in the industry, known for his roles in The Last Samurai opposite Tom Cruise, 47 Ronin with Keanu Reeves, and The Wolverine, where he starred alongside Hugh Jackman. His versatility and commanding screen presence have solidified his place in both Hollywood and international cinema.
Memorable Moments at the Critics Choice Awards
The 30th Critics Choice Awards, hosted by Chelsea Handler, brought together some of Hollywood’s biggest names. This marked Handler’s third consecutive year as host. Presenters for the evening included Kristen Bell, Michelle Yeoh, and Kathryn Hahn, adding star power to the event.
Sanada’s win was one of the evening’s highlights, underscoring a season of consistent recognition for the actor. His portrayal of Yoshii Toranaga in Shōgun, a historical drama set in feudal Japan, has been widely praised for its depth and authenticity.
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