Shōgun is known for its harrowing ending, but editors Maria Gonzales and Aika Miyake have revealed that the show nearly had a very different ending. Inspired by James Clavell’s 1975 book, the show is set in historical Japan, as an entire political structure faces upheaval at the introduction of a pirate. Shōgun was also inspired by real-world events, though some character names have been changed. It is the second adaptation of the book after the 1980 miniseries, and took some liberties with its characters, and that included the season’s ending.

In an interview with Screen Rant, editors Maria Gonzales and Aika Miyake, who have been nominated for a shared Emmy Award for their work on the show, revealed that there was originally a different ending. Gonzales explained that the show would have revealed Toranaga’s future, as he discussed the upcoming political developments in Japan. Director Frederick E.O. Toye cut the scene and refused to offer further elaboration. Check out Gonzales’ full explanation below:

I think there was a version of the script, there was going to be sort of a flash-forward to the future of Japan. Because the real-life character of Toranaga, Tokugawa Ieyasu, he’s the architect of modern-day Japan. So, there was a little bit of a snippet of that in that scene where Toranaga talks about the future of Japan, but that was quickly eliminated. I don’t think that even survived, barely survived the editors cut. I think as soon as Fred, the director, got involved, that was cut out and it never was put back in. So, in terms of the battle itself, yeah, no, it was never going to be much more than what we saw on the screen. This was a very much a show where the battles happened inside of the ceremonial rooms and and back rooms, and it was the battle of words more so than swords.

The Shogun Ending Was Perfect

The Open Ending Left Opportunities For Another Season

Toranaga’s goal was always to defeat the other regents and to establish himself as Japan’s mighty shōgun. Shōgun‘s epic finale saw Toranaga’s goals realized, but it still left room for future seasons as he managed to retain Blackthorne by burning the ship, ensuring that the anjin would forever be trapped in Japan. It left Toranaga with a powerful ally, even after he established himself as an undisputed champion, though he is likely to still need to spend time consolidating power, especially as he shapes a new political arrangement for Japan.

Unfortunately, many impactful characters already died before season 1 ended, which may make season 2 a challenge. Toda Mariko, Kashigi Yabushige, and Toda Hiromatsu all faced brutal endings before the final episode concluded. Shōgun season 2 is already confirmed, but it will be difficult to ensure a continued emotional impact with so many beloved characters written out. The show did manage to make Toranaga’s struggle into an epic battle, but it will need to ensure that new characters are introduced to make the future of the show more exciting.

Had the show chosen to retain its original ending, it would have been far too definitive for the show. Gonzales revealed that the original ending would have left Toranaga’s future bare to the viewers. Instead of leaving some intrigue for those unfamiliar with Japan’s history, it would have completely defined his direction and many of Japan’s major political movements. Shōgun‘s original ending would have been interesting, but it would have been nowhere near as impactful as season 1’s ambiguous conclusion.