Actress Anna Sawai has been named an ambassador for French luxury brand Dior, joining a distinguished group of global figures representing the house. Known for her performance as Toda Mariko in Shōgun (2024), Sawai’s presence in film and fashion makes her a natural fit for this partnership.
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, on June 11, 1992, Sawai moved to Japan as a child and began her entertainment career at a young age. She starred in a Tokyo production of Annie in 2004 before making her film debut in Ninja Assassin (2009). From 2013 to 2018, she was the lead vocalist for the J-pop group FAKY, performing in both Japanese and English. She later shifted back to acting with roles in Giri/Haji (2019) and F9: The Fast Saga (2021), gaining wider recognition for her performance in Pachinko (2022).
Her role in Shōgun earned her both a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series and a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama. Anna Sawai became the first Japanese actress to win in the Emmy category, marking an important moment for representation in the industry.
Her connection with Dior began at the 2025 Golden Globes, where she wore a custom all-white look that took 450 hours to complete. Her approach to fashion, which emphasizes storytelling through style, aligns with Dior’s commitment to narrative-driven design.
Sawai joins an impressive roster of Dior ambassadors, including BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, singer Rosalía, Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, and actresses Jenna Ortega, Sonam Kapoor, Elisabeth Debicki and Rosamund Pike among others.
Dior’s partnership with Anna Sawai strengthens its ties to film, music, and culture, reflecting its ongoing dialogue with the arts. With a presence marked by strength, refinement, and a continuously reimagined sense of femininity, Sawai reflects the essence of Maria Grazia Chiuri’s collections.
