Based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, “Shogun” is the epic historical drama that got the fans talking for its intense directing, stunning visuals, rich performances, and brilliant story. It delves into the life of a 1600s European sailor, John Blackthorne, who is shipwrecked in Japan.
Thrust into a complex world of warring clans and feudal politics, Blackthorne navigates a new life under the rule of a powerful lord. Despite the huge critical acclaim of the series, some fans, it seems, believe a second season might be unnecessary.
The Creators of Shogun Do Not Have Any Roadmap For a Second Season
The critical acclaim for Shogun hasn’t translated into an automatic green light for a second season. The show’s creators, it seems, haven’t charted a course for further adventures, as they revealed speaking to The Hollywood Reporter.
“I don’t know. (Creator Justin Marks on whether there will be a Season Two).. I think if we had a story, if we could find a story, we would be open to it. But I don’t think that anyone ever wants to be out over their skis without a roadmap and everything. And it’s also just about, do people want more of it?
But it’s also about, not even topping the book, but, how do you even equal the roadmap that Clavell laid out? And I don’t know if it’s possible. I don’t know if Clavell could have done it either. That’s probably why he moved on to other books too, right? He knew what he had done. Yeah, it’s a tough one.”
The creators raise a valid point on their concerns for a second season. The first season was so good that forcing a continuation could diminish the show’s impact. We’ve seen this play out before with countless franchises that expanding upon beloved stories can be a risky proposition. Shogun’s strength lies in its tight adaptation of James Clavell’s novel, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
While fans definitely want more of this universe, they agree with the decision of the creators to not think beyond the first season. The simple fact that it is so difficult to top Clavell’s original story makes the second season a distant dream. A few took to X to show their appreciation for Marks’ comments.
It's probably best that they don't do a season 2 if they're going to try to expand on something that wasn't already pre-written. That's not to say it couldn't be good, but they're basically going to have a massive uphill battle to make it as good
— Matt Jarbo (@mjarbo) April 24, 2024
they definitely should just leave it as a standalone season, it’s an unbelievable show
— harv (@harvv) April 24, 2024
No need for season 2, it is amazing as it is. Find another book instead.
— J Montana 🇨🇴 🇨🇦🌱 (@petocorp) April 24, 2024
Good. I hate it when creators just force a story for ratings. If the story is over, it's over
— ReelTalker (@TalkerReel92) April 24, 2024
Why is this even a discussion? It’s a mini-series. It doesn’t need to be a franchise.
— Jason (Not Argonaut Affiliated) (@Mrtrick80) April 24, 2024
Even though a second season seems like a long shot, the good news is that Shogun stands on its own as a series perfect for multiple rewatches.
What Is Shogun About?
Shogun plunges fans into the heart of 17th-century Japan. The story follows John Blackthorne, a brash English sailor, whose life takes a dramatic turn when his ship is wrecked on the Japanese coast. Thrust into a completely foreign culture, Blackthorne finds himself a prisoner in a world he doesn’t understand.
Here, Blackthorne encounters Lord Toranaga, played by Hiroyuki Sanada. He recognizes Blackthorne’s unique skills and potential, and the story unfolds as Blackthorne navigates this complex political landscape. He must adapt to the strict customs and traditions of Japan, all while trying to earn his freedom amidst the power struggles of the samurai. Fans can stream Shogun on Hulu FX.
