FX has announced that limited series Shogun has been given a 10-episode series order.
“The story of Shōgun has captivated audiences since James Clavell first released his epic novel more than 40 years ago,” said John Landgraf, CEO of FX Networks and FX Productions. “The themes of an outsider encountering a new culture are as relevant today as then. We are honored to bring the series to today’s viewers through our partnership with executive producers Andrew Macdonald, Allon Reich, Michael De Luca, Clavell’s daughter Michaela, and Eugene Kelly. We are equally thrilled that Ronan Bennett and Rachel Bennette are writing the new adaption, and that Tim Van Patten will bring his vision and expertise to directing this saga of adventure, power and loyalty that the world has come to know as Shōgun.”
Based on the James Clavell novel, which also spawned an acclaimed 1980 miniseries, Shogun follows the collision course between shipwrecked English sailor John Blackthorne, in Japan for the first time; shrewd daimyo Lord Toranaga, at odds with his political rivals; and Lady Mariko, who must prove her allegiance despite dishonorable family ties. To be written by Ronan Bennett (Top Boy) and directed by Tim Van Patten (Boardwalk Empire), the series will be set in feudal Japan, making it one of very few American scripted properties to explore Asia.
Shogun joins a drama slate for FX that includes Taboo, Pose, Snowfall, American Horror Story, American Crime Story, and Fargo, among others.