Shogun episode 5 was full of interesting developments like the return of the heir's mother, but fans of Lady Mariko and John Blackthorne's romance are concerned about another twist, too. That said, are Mariko and Blackthorne still together?
Since Mariko and Blackthorne's first encounter, there has been romantic tension between them and, following the apparent death of Mariko's husband, the two began a secret relationship.
However, the fifth episode introduces new complications for them.
Spoiler Warning: Below, we are discussing spoilers for Shogun episode 5 so only proceed if you have watched it.
Find Out If Mariko and Blackthrone Are Still Together
Shogun episode 5 culminates with a misunderstanding that causes Mariko to end her relationship with Blackthorne.
The return of Mariko's husband, Buntaro, who survived his fight against Toranaga's enemies, is an additional complication.
While Mariko and Buntaro have a rocky marriage, with the latter often being aggressive, Mariko is dutiful and refuses to speak ill of him.
Fans might have expected Buntaro's return to be enough reason for Mariko and Blackthorne to break up.
However, the tension between Buntaro and Blackthorne remains unspoken for now.
Undoubtedly, finding out that he must live with Blackthorne -- a newly-appointed hatamoto -- has been a shock for Buntaro, but, so far, he has tried to appear respectful and refused to pick a fight.
Mariko ended her relationship with Blackthorne regardless, telling him they must only speak to each other when they translate for others.
Toward the end of the episode, Mariko reveals events from her past; her family committed seppuku after her father's treason but she wasn't allowed to die with them.
Since then, she has lived in shame, married to Buntaro against her will, and wishing to die.
Blackthorne thinks this is no way to live, and tells her so with his usual candor. This leads her to end their affair.
Is Lady Mariko and John Blackthorne's Breakup Permanent?
Warning: Below we discuss spoilers from James Clavell's book of the same name that may or may not be adapted into the Disney+ series.
In this version of Shogun we'll have to wait for the next episodes to find out if Mariko and Blackthorne get back together. We do expect their relationship to continue, but we can only theorize based on the book.
The source material makes it clear that they are still romantically interested in each other with Blackthorne asking Toranaga to let Mariko divorce Buntaro and marry him.
Of course, Toranaga refuses and forbids the newly-appointed hatamoto from asking again.
Later, Mariko is killed in a ninja attack and leaves her assets to Blackthorne rather than Buntaro.
What do you think about Mariko and Blackthorne as a couple? Let us know in the comments!