Shogun: Can It Match the Prestige of Thrones?
Since Game of Thrones’ final season in 2019, few series have managed to reclaim its level of quality. Shogun, available exclusively on Disney+, has broken through to impress both critics and audiences. Viewers aren’t just samurai devotees—it’s become widely recommended for anyone seeking ambitious television.
A Feudal Japanese Epic
With so many new series debuting each year, it’s easy to feel skeptical about investing your time—especially after Game of Thrones stumbled in its endgame. But some standouts are winning over both fans and critics. Shogun, which premiered in 2024 and was created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks, takes place in feudal Japan, set in the year 1600.
Like Game of Thrones, Shogun plunges viewers into a world shaped by dangerous power struggles and rival houses, all vying for dominance. The difference is that Shogun draws its inspiration from real historic events, even if it allows for some creative liberties. If you’re fascinated by Japanese history and enjoy intricate political drama, Shogun is worth adding to your Disney+ queue. This verdict is echoed by the 99% positive rating the show received from professional critics on Rotten Tomatoes.
From Limited Series to Multi-Season Phenomenon
Shogun was originally conceived as a standalone miniseries, with its story fully resolved at the end of its first season. Most expected its run to conclude there. However, the show’s overwhelming critical and popular success prompted Disney+ to officially renew it for two more seasons. Production on the next season had already begun at the start of 2026.
Because the first season’s story arc was self-contained, the creators faced tough choices to develop a fresh direction for the sequel. Audiences can expect some major changes as the story continues.
A Glimpse Into Season 2—and Beyond
Season 2 is set a decade after the events of the original season. According to co-creator Justin Marks, it’s expected to be darker than before, drawing in elements from lesser-known parts of history and even some conspiracy theories. With the story now moving beyond the source novel, the writers have more creative freedom, which could be exciting—or bring new risks.
On the casting front, Hiroyuki Sanada will return, and, according to the actor—who is now also an executive producer—about half of the original cast will be back. As of now, there is still no official release date for season 2. Given the show’s stellar critical reception so far, expectations remain high for what’s next.
