Anna Sawai lit up the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards held on February 23, 2025, with both her captivating presence and her stunning style. The actress, renowned for her gripping portrayal of Toda Mariko in the historic drama series Shōgun, celebrated her nomination by sporting a breathtaking red custom gown by Armani Privé. The event unfolded at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, drawing attention to the talented female actors who have made waves across television.
Sawai's gown was nothing short of spectacular, featuring red georgette embroidered with shimmering crystals, sheer nude-colored side panels, and an elegant black velvet back. Styled by the famous Karla Welch, Sawai complemented her look with diamond earrings and sleek Christian Louboutin platform sandals. "I wanted the dress to reflect not only my love for fashion but also pay homage to my character, Mariko," Sawai revealed. "Red is such a powerful color to her story, so it felt fitting for the event." With these thoughtful stylistic choices, Sawai proved once again why she is heralded as one of the prominent rising stars of the awards circuit.
When it came time for the awards, Sawai's hard work and dedication were recognized as she received the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series, marking her first SAG nomination and win. The audience was captivated as she took the stage, overcome with emotion. "Thank you so much. I'm very happy but also kind of sad because this is probably the last time I'm able to celebrate the work with you guys," she expressed, addressing her Shōgun co-stars and inspiring crew members. "I love you, the whole FX team." Her heartfelt words captured the bittersweet essence of the evening as it marked the conclusion of Shōgun after its first season.
For Sawai, this win came as the culmination of incredible achievements during the awards season. She previously won Best Actress at the Golden Globes and made history at the Emmys as the first woman of Asian descent to win Outstanding Lead Actress for her impactful role. Reflecting on her Shōgun experience, she stated, "Last year when this show came out, the only thing I wanted was for people to watch it. So this has been beyond my imagination. Thank you so much." This sentiment not only speaks to her artistic aspirations but also serves as a monument to the cultural impact the show has made.
Having already gained recognition for her breakout performances, Sawai is fast becoming known for her remarkable wardrobe choices. At the SAG Awards, her red gown joined the list of memorable couture moments from previous accolades, including the elegant Vera Wang she wore at the Emmy Awards and the chic Dior ensemble she presented at the Golden Globes. "I’m short, and so it's really hard to dress me if it feels too heavy," she explained, emphasizing her preference for styles where she feels comfortable and stylish simultaneously.
The night was not just about fashion—Sawai’s emotional acceptance speech underscored her commitment to storytelling through her craft. Not only did she highlight her experience working with Shōgun, but she also anticipated the future of the show. While there are discussions about continuing the series, it remains uncertain if her character will return, though her co-star Hiroyuki Sanada has expressed his desire to find creative ways to incorporate fan-favorite characters back onto screens.
With her growing portfolio and recognition from peers and critics alike, Sawai’s momentum is undeniable. The SAG Awards not only honored her past performance but also showcased the blossoming potential of her film career, confirming her place as one of the leading actresses to watch. Amid her recent victories, Sawai joins the illustrious ranks of stars who inspire others through their art and personal journeys.
At the end of the night, Anna Sawai's triumph at the SAG Awards was marked by applause and cheers, signifying both the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. With her compelling performances and undeniable talent, it’s clear she is set to captivate audiences for years to come.