Richard Chamberlain
Pilot-Major John Blackthorne / Anjin-san
Series
An English navigator becomes both a player and pawn in complex political games in feudal Japan.
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Season guide
5 episodes available
Set in early 17th-century Japan, shipwrecked English navigator John Blackthorne finds intrigue and culture shock in a feudal society that puts a premium on honor. A rival Lord sentences Blackthorne to death.
After Lord Toronaga rescues Blackthorn from prison, he enlists him as his aide and names him, 'Anjin-san'. Mariko is directed to tutor Anjin-san in the language and customs of Japan.
Blackthorne and Mariko begin a romance; Toronaga continues to build his army for a battle with Ishido. Anjin-san proves his mettle during an earthquake and is honored by Toranaga for bravery. Mariko's husband Buntaro, arrives in Anjiro.
On screen
Pilot-Major John Blackthorne / Anjin-san
Lord Yoshi Toranaga
Lady Toda Buntaro - Mariko
Vasco Rodrigues
Father Alvito
Yabu
More from the vault
Anjin-san's assimilation of Japanese ways is evident in his exemplary conduct. Toranaga decides to return the Erasmus to Anjin-san. Mariko tells Father Alvito of a plot to murder a Christian lord on the Council of Regents.
Omi
Fujiko
Father Dell'Aqua
Kiri
Captain Ferriera
Ishido