Shōgun is officially returning for a second season, with a third already in the works, following the success of the first season. The series, adapted from James Clavell’s 1975 novel, follows Lord Yoshi Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), the leader inspired by Tokugawa Ieyasu, and English shipwreck survivor John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), along with translator Lady Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai). Season 1 wrapped up with Mariko’s tragic death, leaving the story open for further exploration of Toranaga and Blackthorne’s complex relationship.
For the second season, since the first season covered Clavell’s book, the show will now explore real historical events. The storyline will focus on Toranaga’s rise to power and the formation of his shogunate, with a darker tone expected, emphasizing political intrigue and power struggles. Co-creator Justin Marks hinted that the second season will be a “darker chapter,” while Rachel Kondo expressed excitement and nervousness about venturing into uncharted territory without a set roadmap, relying instead on history.
Hiroyuki Sanada is confirmed to return as Toranaga, but Cosmo Jarvis’ involvement remains uncertain. As for Anna Sawai, since her character Mariko met her demise in the first season, it’s unlikely she will return. Sanada recently mentioned that Season 2 will feature a mix of returning and new cast members. He shared with Variety in February 2025 that half of the cast from Season 1 would return, with the rest being new faces for the continuation of the story.
Originally conceived as a limited series, the critical and financial success of Shōgun led to the decision to expand it into a three-season arc, with the third season planned to wrap up the series. Although there is no set release date for Season 2, Season 1 is currently available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+.