“Shōgun” and “Only Murders” triumph: A night of celebrated performances at the SAG awards
The 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards witnessed a celebration of exceptional talent, with FX’s epic “Shōgun” and Hulu’s comedic mystery “Only Murders in the Building” taking home top television honors. The night was marked by emotional speeches, heartfelt acknowledgments, and a resounding appreciation for the craft of acting, proving once again the power of storytelling to connect audiences across cultures.
“Shōgun” emerged as a dominant force, securing the coveted award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. This historical drama, set in 17th-century Japan, captivated audiences with its intricate plot, stunning visuals, and powerful performances. Hiroyuki Sanada, in his acceptance speech, expressed profound gratitude, emphasizing the “universal language” of acting and acknowledging the “gamble” taken by FX in producing a series with significant Japanese dialogue and cultural depth.
He also won the award for outstanding performance by a male actor in a drama series. Adding to the show’s wins, Anna Sawai also won outstanding performance by a female actor in a drama series. Sawai delivered an emotional speech, expressing both joy and a touch of sadness, as she reflected on the collaborative journey of the show. The show also won for outstanding action performance by a stunt ensemble in a television series.
Meanwhile, “Only Murders in the Building” delighted fans by winning the award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. The cast, known for their on-screen chemistry and comedic timing, expressed their surprise and delight at the win. Selena Gomez, a key member of the ensemble, humorously acknowledged their unexpected victory, promising to bring the award back to their New York City setting.
The SAG Awards highlighted the diverse range of talent within the television industry. Other notable wins included:
- Television Movie or Limited Series:
- Jessica Gunning for “Baby Reindeer” (Female Actor)
- Colin Farrell for “The Penguin” (Male Actor)
Other individual actor wins in the comedy and drama catagories were also widely celebrated.
The evening served as a reminder of the dedication and passion that actors bring to their roles, and the impact that their performances have on viewers worldwide. The success of “Shōgun” and “Only Murders in the Building” underscores the enduring appeal of well-crafted stories and the power of ensemble performances. The 2025 SAG Awards will be remembered as a night where talent, dedication, and the unifying force of acting took center stage.