Former J-Pop Star Anna Sawai Wins "Outstanding Lead Actress" At The 2024 "Emmys"

The 2024 Emmys, held last night on September 16 KST, brought many surprises — but perhaps the best of them all was the moment Anna Sawai made history at the prestigious award show.

elleusa_1718122119_3388176370444774849_178598981 — | *@elleusa/Instagram*

The 32-year-old became the very first Japanese actress to win an Emmy last night. She took home the award for “Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama” for her role as Lady Mariko in Shōgun, one of the year’s most nominated series.

Anna Sawai poses with her historic Emmy. https://t.co/xzdMwJHzaq

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) September 16, 2024

Sawai turned heads at the event in a striking red trumpet gown designed by Vera Wang. According to Harper’s Baazar, she shared that Wang was her top choice when selecting a gown for her big night, which marked a significant milestone in her career.

anna sawai vanity fair — | *Vanity Fair*

During her acceptance speech, Sawai emotionally thanked her mother, who accompanied her to the event and inspired her portrayal of Lady Mariko.

Thank you to my family. Mom, I love you. You are the reason I’m here. You showed me stoicism, and that’s how I was able to portray Mariko. This is to all the women who expect nothing and continue to be an example for everyone.

— Anna Sawai

"Shōgun" star Anna Sawai gets emotional as she accepts her #Emmy for best lead actress in a drama series. She is the first Asian winner in category history. https://t.co/3itGkRBc7U pic.twitter.com/fuiA32J49Z

— Variety (@Variety) September 16, 2024

Born in New Zealand and of Japanese heritage, Sawai now resides in Tokyo. Though many fans know her for her acting, some might be surprised to learn that she previously had a career as a J-Pop idol. She even has ties to K-Pop!

Anna_Sawai rain — Sawai starred next to K-Pop superstar Rain in “Ninja Assasin.”

Following her breakout role in Shōgun, fans discovered that Anna was a founding member of the Japanese pop group FAKY and remained with the band until 2018 — when she chose to focus on her acting ambitions. In a recent interview, Sawai even reflected on her time with the group, revealing that her management company, AVEX, had limited her opportunities to explore other creative paths.

She even almost auditioned for the popular role of Katana in Suicide Squad. Unfortunately, she wasn’t allowed to by AVEX due to her commitment to the group.