The limited FX series, Shōgun, was adapted from a novel about the true story of a sailor called William Adams. The novel also includes other characters based on real-life people. One of which is Hosokawa Gracia in Shōgun as Lady Mariko.
Who was she and why is she a prominent figure in Japan's history? Here's what you need to know about Hosokawa Gracia.
Who is Lady Mariko? Was Lady Mariko Real in Shōgun?
The 1975 book written by James Clavell follows the story of John Blackthorne (played by Cosmo Jarvis) as he ends up in Japan as Lord Yoshii Toranaga (played by Hiroyuki Sanada) fights for his life.
The novel is a fictionalized version of real historical events and people. One of the important characters in the series is Lady Toda Mariko (played by Anna Sawai). She is a woman with indispensable skills.
In the series, Lady Mariko is a fierce ally of Lord Toranaga. She is a well-educated woman and a devoted Christian. Because of her multilingual skills, she helps translate for Blackthorne, who she eventually gets closer to.
But who was the Lady Mariko character inspired by?
Meet Hosokawa Gracia, Shōgun's Inspiration for Lady Mariko
Akechi Tama was born in 1563. After converting to Christianity, she adapted to her baptismal name, Hosokawa Gracia.
Although Lady Mariko becomes involved with John Blackthorne in Shōgun, the real Hosokawa Gracia is not involved with William Adams. However, she was still considered as the daughter of a traitor. This sent her into hiding.
Because of her Catholic faith, she failed to honor the act of seppuku, which meant she broke the code of conduct for women in the samurai class.
When Ishida Mitsunari attempted to take Hosokawa hostage, their family retainer Ogasawara Shōsai killed her before committing seppuku.
Her death enraged the public and also led to Ishida backtracking on his plans. This later triggered the events that led to the Tokugawa Shogunate formation.
Although Lady Mariko is based on Hosokawa Gracia in Shōgun, it's unclear whether her fate in the series will be the same as Hosokawa's in real life.
Who Plays Lady Mariko in Shōgun? Meet Anna Sawai
As mentioned, Anna Sawai is the actress behind the role in Shōgun.
You may remember the New Zealand actress in Apple TV+'s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, which was released in 2023. She also starred in Pachinko, another Apple TV+ show.
To date, Shōgun is Sawai's biggest role. But thanks to her talent, she'll be cast in other larger projects in no time.
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