Anna Sawai's breakout role as Mariko brought millions of Shojun viewers to tears, and at the 2024 Emmy Awards she made history at the ceremony by continuing to bring tears to her eyes and even shed some herself.

The first Asian to win the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series award, the Japanese actress was already emotional when she stepped onstage and delivered one of the most heartfelt speeches of the night.

“I was crying even before my name was announced. I'm a wreck today,” she began.

She went on to thank the team behind the hit period drama based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell. 'Thank you John Landgraf and the entire FX team for believing in our story. Justin (Marks) and Rachel (Kondo), thank you for believing in me and giving me this once-in-a-lifetime role. Thank you to Hiroyuki Sanada and the rest of the crew and cast. He has opened and continues to open doors for people like me. Thank you so much. Cosmo (Jarvis), you are the most honest, truthful, no BS actor I know and you let me give my 120 percent.”

She ended her speech with a tearful shout out to her loved ones and the women who inspire her.

“Finally, thank you to my team and to my family. Mom, I love you. You are the reason I am here. You taught me to be stoic so I could play Mariko. Dedicated to all the women who expect nothing and continue to be a role model for everyone. Thank you so much.”

That evening, Sawai appeared at the 2024 Emmy Awards in her “dream dress,” a bright red strapless gown custom-made by Vera Wong. She opted for natural makeup paired with an elegant low bun and topped with red blush.

Before tonight's primetime awards ceremony began, “Shoveling” had already made Emmy history. Last weekend, the FX show won 14 Creative Arts Emmy Awards, making it the most honored television program in the awards' 76-year history. At the Primetime Emmy Awards, Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada won for Best Actor in a Drama and Outstanding Drama Series.

“‘Shobu ga Gotoku’ was a dream project that combined the East and the West. SHOUN' taught me that if people work together, they can create miracles. We can create a better future together. Thank you so much!”