The Japanese period-action series ‘Last Samurai Standing’ has been officially renewed for a second season, following its strong global reception and critical acclaim. Set against the backdrop of Japan’s Meiji period in the late 19th century, the series has carved a distinct identity for itself with its scale, intensity and storytelling rooted in history.

According to an ANI report, the show follows 292 samurai warriors who assemble at Kyoto’s Tenryuji Temple for a deadly competition, lured by a staggering prize of 100 billion yen. At the heart of the narrative is Shujiro Saga, portrayed by Okada Junichi, who enters the brutal contest in a desperate bid to save his ailing wife and child.

‘Last Samurai Standing’ achieved a notable milestone earlier this year by becoming the first all-Japanese production to be nominated in the Best Foreign Language Series category at the Critics’ Choice Awards, significantly boosting its international profile. The series streams globally on Netflix and has found a wide audience beyond Japan.

Okada Junichi, who plays the lead role, also serves as producer and action choreographer on the series, working closely with director Fujii Michihito. Reacting to the renewal, Okada said, “I’m pleased to see that ‘Last Samurai Standing’ has reached global audiences and has been confirmed for a second season. I’m excited to get back into this wild world and once again charge into battle with the production team. We hope to make the next season even more energetic and action-packed.”

Director Fujii echoed the sentiment, expressing both relief and excitement over the series’ continued journey. “I’m very pleased and relieved that ‘Last Samurai Standing’ has been such a big hit outside Japan. I’m also honoured to say that the series has officially been greenlit for a second season. There’s no doubt that Season 2 will be even bigger and better than the first,” he said.

The production boasts a strong ensemble cast including Yumia Fujisaki, Kaya Kiyohara, Masahiro Higashide, Shota Sometani, Taichi Saotome, Yuya Endo, Yasushi Fuchikami, Jyo Kairi, Takayuki Yamada, Wataru Ichinose, Riho Yoshioka, Kazunari Ninomiya, Hiroshi Tamaki and Hideaki Ito. The series is based on Imamura Shogo’s Ikusagami novel series, which won the prestigious 166th Naoki Prize in 2021.

For the upcoming season, directors Yamaguchi Kento and Yamamoto Toru will join Fujii Michihito, while Oshida Kosuke continues as producer. With its blend of historical drama, stylised action and emotionally driven storytelling, ‘Last Samurai Standing’ is poised to raise the stakes further when it returns for Season 2.