Anna Sawai is the 1st Asian to win Best Actress Emmy for 'Shōgun'. Did you know she was also a J-pop star?

Anna Sawai has just made history by becoming the first actor of Asian descent to win the Emmy for Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She received the prestigious television award for her critically adored role in Shōgun.

The FX series itself entered the record books by winning in an astonishing 18 categories at the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards, an all-time record for a single season of TV. Notably, her co-star Hiroyuki Sanada also made history by becoming the first Japanese performer to win the Emmy for Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

 

 

 

 

 

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This is certainly a remarkable achievement for the talented 32-year-old thespian, who can be seen in other acclaimed shows such as Giri/Haji and Pachinko (which is currently airing its 2nd season on Apple TV+). But did you know that prior to these performances, she was formerly a J-pop star?

Yes, Sawai was the leader of FAKY, the 5-member girl group best known for their singles 'Better Without You' and 'Suga Sweet'. Also made up of bandmates Diane, Tina, Mikako and Lil'Fang - the quintet was formed in 2013 under Avex's Rhythm Zone record label.

Their name was both an acronym for "Five Ass-Kicking Youngers," as well as a play on the phrase, "FAntastic toKYo." After Sawai left the group in 2018 to pursue acting, new members stepped in and FAKY continued before disbanding earlier this January after their final performance.