FX’s New Series ‘Shōgun’ Receives Rave Reviews and Announces Release Schedule
FX Network’s highly anticipated new original series, Shōgun, has taken the television world by storm. Premiering just two days ago, the historical drama has already garnered a perfect 100% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, solidifying its place as a must-watch series. Based on the bestselling novel by James Clavell, Shōgun offers a fictionalized version of history set in 1600 feudal Japan. The story revolves around John Blackthorne, an English navigator played by the talented Cosmo Jarvis, who finds himself stranded in Japan and entangled in the intricate political landscape of the region.
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano, and Takehiro Hira, among others. Hiroyuki Sanada, who portrays Yoshii Toranaga, the Lord of the Kanto region and one of the most powerful members of the Council of Regents, is not only a legendary actor but also a producer on the project. His dedication to the series goes beyond his on-screen role, as he played a pivotal role in assembling a team of experts to ensure the authenticity of the production.
“Our process was going straight to the text and listening to the story that was being told to us,” said executive producer Justin Marks. “We see the story through Toranaga’s eyes, Lady Mariko’s eyes, so many Japanese eyes,” added Hiroyuki Sanada. The intention behind this version of Shōgun is to provide a multi-perspective narrative that captures the essence of the time period and culture.
Eriko Miyagawa, another producer on the series, expressed her hope that Shōgun would push the envelope of storytelling. “Hopefully, people will be curious about stories that take place in a foreign land told through a different language,” Miyagawa explained. The industry and the audience seem ready for such a unique and immersive experience, and the responsibility to deliver an exceptional series is felt by the entire team.
Shōgun has already drawn comparisons to award-winning shows like Game of Thrones, Succession, and House of Cards, thanks to its gripping storyline and high production value. Fans eager to watch the epic new series have multiple options for viewing. New episodes are released on Hulu every Tuesday at 12:01 a.m. ET/PT, with a broadcast on FX later that same day at 10 p.m. ET/PT. Additionally, viewers can take advantage of Hulu’s one-month free trial for new and eligible subscribers or opt for TV streaming services like DirectTV and fuboTV, which offer the FX channel.
For those wondering about the release schedule of Shōgun, the first season consists of ten episodes in total. The first two episodes, “Anjin” and “Servants of Two Masters,” aired on February 27, while the remaining episodes will be released weekly until the season finale on April 23, 2024. The next episode, “Tomorrow is Tomorrow,” is set to air on March 5, 2024, at 12:01 a.m. ET/PT on Hulu and 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX.
Don’t miss out on this captivating journey through feudal Japan. Stream Shōgun on Hulu and immerse yourself in a world of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and unforgettable characters. Watch the trailer below and prepare to be transported to a time long gone but never forgotten.