Anna Sawai (澤井 杏奈, Sawai Anna), born June 11, 1992, in Wellington, New Zealand, is a Japanese-New Zealander actress, dancer, and singer. She spent her early childhood in New Zealand before moving to Japan at a young age. Her multicultural background has significantly influenced her career path.
Before transitioning into acting, Sawai was a member of the Japanese girl group ARARE from 2004 to 2008. This early experience provided her with valuable performance skills and exposure to the entertainment industry.
Sawai’s acting career began with minor television roles in Japan. She gained international recognition for her role as Kiriko in the 2009 film *Ninja Assassin*. Her subsequent roles have demonstrated her versatility as an actress.
Sawai’s performance in *Shōgun* has been particularly lauded, solidifying her position as a leading actress. She has been praised for her nuanced portrayal of complex characters and her ability to connect with audiences across diverse cultural backgrounds. Her work in both *Pachinko* and *Shōgun* has received significant critical acclaim and contributed to boosting her international profile.
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