Anna Sawai’s recent Emmys win has catapulted her into the spotlight, making her the first actor of Asian descent to win an Emmy for lead actress in a drama. The New Zealand-born actress, who stars in FX’s “ShÅgun” as Toda Mariko, expressed her disbelief and gratitude for the historic achievement. Despite the whirlwind of emotions surrounding her win, Sawai had to quickly shift her focus back to work, as she is currently filming Season 2 of Apple TV+ series “Monarch: Legacy of Monsters” in Australia.
In addition to her role in “ShÅgun,” Sawai is also a cast member in the period drama “Pachinko,” which is now in its sophomore season on Apple TV+. In the series, Sawai portrays the character Naomi Ichizaki, a driven businesswoman navigating a complex relationship with colleague Solomon Baek, played by Jin Ha. This week’s episode of “Pachinko” sees their romance facing significant challenges, adding depth to their characters’ dynamics.
Reflecting on her role as Naomi in “Pachinko,” Sawai shares how the character has shed light on the struggles her own mother faced in the business world decades ago. The series delves into themes of ambition, love, and cultural identity, providing a platform for Asian actors to showcase their talent in diverse roles.
How are you feeling after your recent Emmys win?
Sawai describes her emotions as surreal, expressing her disbelief at the groundbreaking achievement. She acknowledges the unpredictability of life and the unexpected turn of events that led to her Emmy win. Despite the initial shock, Sawai remains grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to make history in the entertainment industry.
Christopher Polk
Did you anticipate winning the Emmy, or was it a surprise?
Sawai reveals that she never expected to win the Emmy, emphasizing the magnitude of the achievement for both herself and the cast and crew of “ShÅgun.” The actress attributes her tears to a combination of nerves, overwhelming emotions, and the realization of the milestone she had reached. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, Sawai remains grounded and humbled by the recognition.
How did you celebrate after the awards ceremony?
Sawai humorously recounts how she carried her Emmy statue to every party she attended, joking about her now seemingly stronger right arm from holding the heavy award all night. She highlights the joy of celebrating with her colleagues from FX and the “ShÅgun” team, relishing the opportunity to share the moment with those who had supported her throughout the journey.
During the awards campaign, did you form close bonds with other actors?
Sawai recalls meeting fellow actors Nava Mau and Ayo Edebiri during the awards campaign, finding solace in their shared experiences and mutual support. She values the connections she has made with other actors in the industry, appreciating the guidance and camaraderie that comes with navigating the challenges of awards season and Hollywood.
How do you select roles in projects like “ShÅgun,” “Pachinko,” and “Monarch”?
Sawai explains that her role selection process is based on her connection to the character and the story, rather than the scale or scope of the project. She emphasizes the importance of portraying diverse and meaningful roles that challenge stereotypes and showcase the complexity of Asian characters. Through her work in these acclaimed series, Sawai aims to redefine representation and amplify Asian voices in the entertainment industry.
She is professional, she is strong, and she is smart. So we wanted to keep her wardrobe powerful but still feminine. Kyunghwa did an amazing job with that balance, making sure Naomi’s wardrobe reflected her character perfectly.
Overall, playing a Japanese American character in “Pachinko” has been a rewarding experience for the actor. It has allowed her to delve into her cultural heritage and connect with her mother’s generation in a deeper way. The character of Naomi brings to light the struggles and challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries, as well as the complexities of navigating familial expectations and personal aspirations. Through her portrayal, the actor hopes to shed light on the resilience and strength of women who have had to fight against societal norms to achieve their goals.
The relationship between Naomi and Solomon adds another layer of depth to the story, highlighting the bonds that can form between individuals who share similar struggles and experiences. As their professional and personal lives become intertwined, viewers are left wondering how their dynamic will evolve and what challenges they will face in the future.
With stunning costumes and meticulous attention to detail, “Pachinko” captures the essence of the ’80s era while staying true to the characters and their stories. Naomi’s wardrobe, in particular, reflects her strength and independence, showcasing a balance between power and femininity.
Overall, the actor’s experience portraying a Japanese American character in “Pachinko” has been both educational and fulfilling. Through her role, she hopes to honor the stories of those who came before her and shed light on the struggles and triumphs of women in the past. When it comes to professional outfits, intentional choices are key. For Naomi, wearing Chanel suits is not just amazing, but also a reflection of her personality and professionalism. The wardrobe she selects speaks volumes about who she is in the workplace, showcasing a sophisticated and polished image.
However, outside of the office, Naomi’s style takes a different turn. She can be seen in cute outfits that reveal a side of her personality that is not often seen in the workplace. This versatility in her fashion choices highlights her ability to adapt to different settings and express herself freely.
One standout aspect of the show “Pachinko” is its opening credits sequence, which is undeniably fun and engaging. The vibrant visuals and catchy music make it a must-watch every time, with Naomi enjoying being a part of it. The opportunity to dance and let loose on set adds a sense of enjoyment and camaraderie among the cast and crew.
As for the Emmys, Naomi is still figuring out where to display her award statue in her home. With multiple accolades to showcase, including one from the TCA Awards, she may need to invest in a new shelf to properly showcase her achievements. Balancing between Tokyo and the States, Naomi considers both places home, with family ties drawing her back to Japan whenever she can.
Despite her background in singing, Naomi admits to lacking confidence in that area. However, she remains open to exploring roles that involve music and possibly even a film musical. The idea of being part of a musical production intrigues her, hinting at the potential for a new creative challenge in the future.
While the idea of a “A Star Is Born” remake may seem daunting after Lady Gaga’s iconic performance, Naomi remains open to dreaming big and pursuing new opportunities in the world of music and film. As she navigates her career with grace and determination, the possibilities for her future roles are endless. This interview provides a glimpse into the multifaceted talent and aspirations of Naomi, leaving us eager to see where her journey will take her next.
