Shōgun breakout star Takehiro Hira is joining the cast of Karoshi, a high-concept action thriller from Lionsgate. Known to international audiences for his Emmy- and Critics Choice-nominated performance as Ishido Kazunari, the villainous warlord in FX’s acclaimed historical epic, Hira is set to take on another antagonist role in Karoshi.
Leading the cast is Past Lives star Teo Yoo, with Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo and 1923 actress Isabel May also onboard. The film is written and directed by Takashi Doscher, who previously helmed the post-apocalyptic drama Only.
Details about the plot remain tightly under wraps, but Karoshi is described as a stylish revenge thriller with samurai elements, set in a Japanese-influenced version of New York City. The title itself refers to a real-world Japanese term meaning 'death by overwork', hinting at the film’s dark and possibly satirical undertones. Sources confirm that Hira will portray the film’s villain.
Karoshi is being produced by 87Eleven Entertainment — led by John Wick director Chad Stahelski, along with producers Alex Young and Jason Spitz. The production company has a first-look deal with Lionsgate and is known for delivering high-octane, visually striking action films.
Hira’s recent credits reflect his growing global presence. In addition to Shōgun, he appeared earlier this year in Guy Maddin’s Rumours opposite Cate Blanchett, played the Japanese prime minister in Marvel’s Captain America: Brave New World. He will also reprise his role in Apple TV+’s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.
Production on Karoshi is slated to begin in June.
