Summary
Shōgunis known for its harrowing ending, but editors Maria Gonzales and Aika Miyake have revealed that the show nearly had a very different ending. Inspired by James Clavell’s 1975 book, the show is set in historical Japan, as an entire political structure faces upheaval at the introduction of a pirate.Shōgunwas also inspired by real-world events, though some character names have been changed. It is the second adaptation of the book after the 1980 miniseries, and took some liberties with its characters, and that included the season’s ending.
In an interview withScreen Rant, editors Maria Gonzales and Aika Miyake, who have been nominated for a shared Emmy Award for their work on the show, revealed that there was originally a different ending. Gonzales explained that the show would have revealed Toranaga’s future, as he discussed the upcoming political developments in Japan.Director Frederick E.O. Toye cut the sceneand refused to offer further elaboration. Check out Gonzales' full explanation below:
I think there was a version of the script, there was going to be sort of a flash-forward to the future of Japan. Because the real-life character of Toranaga, Tokugawa Ieyasu, he’s the architect of modern-day Japan. So, there was a little bit of a snippet of that in that scene where Toranaga talks about the future of Japan, but that was quickly eliminated. I don’t think that even survived, barely survived the editors cut. I think as soon as Fred, the director, got involved, that was cut out and it never was put back in. So, in terms of the battle itself, yeah, no, it was never going to be much more than what we saw on the screen. This was a very much a show where the battles happened inside of the ceremonial rooms and and back rooms, and it was the battle of words more so than swords.
The Shogun Ending Was Perfect
The Open Ending Left Opportunities For Another Season
Toranaga’s goal was always to defeat the other regents and to establish himself as Japan’s mighty shōgun.Shōgun’s epic finalesaw Toranaga’s goals realized, butit still left room for future seasonsas he managed to retain Blackthorne by burning the ship, ensuring that theanjinwould forever be trapped in Japan. It left Toranaga with a powerful ally, even after he established himself as an undisputed champion, though he is likely to still need to spend time consolidating power, especially as he shapes a new political arrangement for Japan.
How Shogun’s Story Can Continue In Seasons 2 & 3 (Based On Real Life History)
Shōgun is guaranteed to have at least 2 more seasons and should continue to chronicle the legendary historical conflicts of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Unfortunately,many impactful characters already diedbefore season 1 ended, which may make season 2 a challenge. Toda Mariko, Kashigi Yabushige, and Toda Hiromatsu all faced brutal endings before the final episode concluded.Shōgunseason 2 is already confirmed, but it will be difficult to ensure a continued emotional impact with so many beloved characters written out. The show did manage to make Toranaga’s struggle into an epic battle, but it will need to ensure that new characters are introduced to make the future of the show more exciting.
Had the show chosen to retain its original ending,it would have been far too definitivefor the show. Gonzales revealed that the original ending would have left Toranaga’s future bare to the viewers. Instead of leaving some intrigue for those unfamiliar with Japan’s history, it would have completely defined his direction and many of Japan’s major political movements.Shōgun’s original ending would have been interesting, but it would have been nowhere near as impactful as season 1’s ambiguous conclusion.
Shogun
Cast
Shōgun, released in 2024, is set in Japan during 1600 at the onset of a significant civil war. It follows Lord Yoshii Toranaga as he battles political adversaries on the Council of Regents, while a European ship mysteriously appears in a nearby fishing village, complicating the tides of power.
