At the 23rd Annual Visual Effects Society (VES) Awards, Hollywood icon Keanu Reeves took the stage to present the Creative Excellence Award to legendary Japanese actor and producer Hiroyuki Sanada.

Reeves, visibly honored, praised Sanada for his extraordinary contributions to television and film, particularly highlighting his role in the critically acclaimed miniseries Shōgun.

“Shōgun was enjoyed and celebrated by millions worldwide and lauded universally for the performances, the writing, and the production. At the creative center of this extraordinary work—its heart and soul—was Hiroyuki Sanada,” Reeves said.

Reeves emphasized Sanada’s dual impact as both actor and producer. Beyond his commanding performance as Lord Toranaga, Sanada brought more than 50 years of experience in film and television to the production. His dedication to authenticity—whether in cultural representation, historical customs, costume design, or combat choreography—set a new standard for excellence.

“He guided and supported every artist, every department, from pre-production through delivery. To collaborate with so many people and bring a meaningful story to life is a creative act of the highest order. And Shōgun is a creative work of art of the highest order. Hiroyuki Sanada is an artist of the highest order,” Reeves declared, drawing a standing ovation.

When Sanada took the stage to accept the award, he was visibly emotional.

“Wow, thank you so much. Keanu, you made me almost cry,” Sanada began, his voice filled with gratitude. He thanked the Visual Effects Society for the recognition, recalling that his very first sci-fi film experience was 47 years ago—a moment that began his lifelong partnership with visual effects.

Sanada also reflected on his Hollywood journey, starting with The Last Samurai two decades ago. Since then, he has worked tirelessly to introduce Japanese culture accurately and respectfully to global audiences.

As producer of Shōgun, Sanada said he was able to dedicate himself to every detail on set, collaborating closely with the visual effects team led by Michael, whose work he praised for making the series look as authentic as possible.

The actor closed his speech with optimism, hinting at the highly anticipated Season 2 of Shōgun:

“The teamwork we’ve built in Shōgun will take Season 2 to the next level. I’m looking forward to working with you again, and again, and again. Thank you so much.”

The night ended with thunderous applause as Sanada received his award, marking not just a career milestone but a celebration of cultural artistry, authenticity, and global storytelling.