From Richard Chamberlain to Yoko Shimada, here's what the OG cast members of 'Shogun' are up to
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The 1980 miniseries 'Shogun,' featuring Richard Chamberlain as shipwrecked Englishman John Blackthorne, captivated the hearts of audiences with its intriguing plot of an Englishman thrust into the intricate world of feudal Japan.
Adapted from James Clavell's novel of the same name, the series played a pivotal role in solidifying the careers of its ensemble cast. Despite airing four decades ago, the legacy of its cast members endures, showcasing the lasting impact of their performances.
So let's look at the lives and careers of five legendary performers who brought this timeless drama to life.
Richard Chamberlain
Richard Chamberlain, who portrayed the English navigator John Blackthorne in the renowned series, has garnered love and admiration for his several film and television appearances over his extensive career spanning decades.
The actor who received the 2012 Hawaii International Film Festival's EuroCinema Hawai'i Lifetime Achievement Award appeared in several films, including 'The Thorn Birds' and 'The Bourne Identity.'
The 89-year-old actor's latest appearance was in the 2018 movie 'Nightmare Cinema. '
Toshiro Mifune
Toshiro Mifune, who portrayed the role of Yoshi Toranaga, is a renowned actor in the Japanese film industry and his captivating performance in the series solidified his worldwide stature, earning him a substantial following.
After the success of 'Shogun,' Mifune went on to appear in a variety of widely recognized series, including 'The Miracle of Joe Petrel' and 'The Challenge.'
Sadly, the charismatic actor died in 1997 at the age of 77, leaving a legacy that continues to motivate performers all over the globe.
John Rhys-Davies
View this post on Instagram
John Rhys-Davies, who played the role of cunning and ambitious pilot Vasco Rodrigues in the show, went on to enjoy a successful career in movies and television.
The actor, who won the Screen Actors Guild Award, rose to prominence for his role in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy.
Among his other notable works are 'The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement', 'Aladdin and the King of Thieves', and 'Aquaman,' to mention a few.
Yoko Shimada
Yoko Shimada, who played the intellectual Lady Toda Buntaro 'Mariko' in the series, captured viewers' attention with her elegance and composure.
Following the show's success, the actress enjoyed a thriving career, until her reputation was marred by her relationship with married musician Yuya Uchida in 1988.
She later admitted to struggling with alcohol. In 1992, Shimada's career took a further hit when she appeared nude in a photo shoot due to financial difficulties. She also appeared in an adult video in her fifties. Sadly, the actress died on July 25, 2022.
Damien Thomas
Damien Thomas, who played Father Martin Alvito, is still renowned for his performance. Following the popularity of the series, the actor appeared in other notable productions, including 'Never Let Me Go,' 'Pirates,' and 'Grave Tales.'
The Egyptian-born actor was last seen in the titular role in the TV series 'Shalom Kabul.'
