Hulu’s 2024 Shogun series has garnered widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, transporting audiences to feudal Japan with its meticulously crafted world-building and complex characters.
Shōgun’s Hiromatsu Actor Tokuma Nishioka Snubbed by the Emmys
Based on James Clavell’s 1975 novel, the FX on Hulu production boasts a predominantly Japanese cast, with the majority of dialogue spoken in Japanese, adding to its authenticity. The show’s ensemble cast, led by Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, and Anna Sawai, has been praised for their nuanced performances, with several supporting actors doing remarkable playing their chracters.
Among the notable aspects of the series were its richly drawn characters, brought to life by an exceptional cast. One of the show’s two nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor went to Takehiro Hira for his portrayal of Ishido.
Hira’s commanding presence and masterful execution of the character’s stoic yet calculating nature have earned him the well-deserved nomination.
However, Tokuma Nishioka, who played Toranaga’s trusted general and confidant, Toda “Iron Fist” Hiromatsu, was more deserving of this honor.
A Loyal Paternal Figure
As a young Toranaga, Hiromatsu’s guidance and mentorship helped shape his values and leadership principles. Hiromatsu’s influence instilled a strong sense of loyalty, honor, and strategic thinking in Toranaga, laying the foundation for his future success.
Throughout Toranaga’s adult life, Hiromatsu remained a constant and trusted confidant. As a general and advisor, Hiromatsu provided counsel on matters of war and state, often serving as a voice of reason and caution. His unwavering loyalty and dedication to Toranaga fostered a deep bond between the two, making Hiromatsu more than just a trusted advisor – a surrogate father figure.
Nishioka’s screen presence was consistently strong throughout the series, often elevating the scenes he was in. His chemistry with Sanada and the other actors was palpable, making his character’s relationships feel authentic and emotionally resonant. In contrast, while Hira’s portrayal of Ishido was a formidable, his character’s motivations and actions sometimes felt one-dimensional, lacking the richness and depth Nishioka brought to Hiromatsu.
Episode 8 (The Abyss of Life): A Turning Point
Hiromatsu’s plea to Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) is a poignant moment in their complex relationship. As Toranaga’s oldest friend, Hiromatsu is torn between his loyalty and his disagreement with Toranaga’s decision to surrender, which he believes would be a betrayal of their shared values and the samurai code. Toranaga appears to be deeply upset and distraught as his trusted friend and general prepares to commit seppuku. When Toranaga said, “Then die by my side at Osaka.” This statement reveals Toranaga’s genuine emotional plea, as he’s asking Hiromatsu to reconsider his drastic decision.
Hiromatsu’s raised eyebrows and blinking suggest he finally understands Toranaga’s true intentions. This marks a turning point in their conversation as Hiromatsu comprehends Toranaga’s loyalty and desperation. Believing that Toranaga needs to maintain the illusion of defeat to succeed, Hiromatsu stages his own dramatic sacrifice, pretending to be distraught and disloyal. This scene highlights the devastating consequences of war and the complexities of loyalty and duty. The intense filming of Episode 8, where crews reportedly cried silently on set, testified to the emotional impact of Nishioka’s character.
“‘I don’t think, until Tokuma’s performance, we realized what an amazing character Hiromatsu really was,’ showrunner Justin Marks adds.” (EW)
While Takehiro Hira’s performance as Ishido in Hulu’s “Shogun” was excellent, Tokuma Nishioka’s portrayal of Toda Hiromatsu brought a deeper, more nuanced layer to the series, despite having less screen time. Hiromatsu played a pivotal role in shaping Lord Toranaga’s persona and character.
As a father figure and advisor, Hiromatsu’s presence spanned Toranaga’s childhood through adulthood, imbuing the narrative with significant depth. Recognizing Nishioka’s contribution would not only acknowledge his outstanding talent but also highlight the importance of depth and nuance in supporting roles.
Shogun’s Official Viewer’s Guide
Shogun 2024 Season I Full Cast
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Shōgun’s Hiromatsu actor took the job for this one scene