Cover These C-drama stars produce TV gold. (Photo: Instagram / @yang_0099)
These C-drama stars produce TV gold. (Photo: Instagram / @yang_0099)
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Chinese dramas are taking over—and these C-drama stars are leading the charge
The C-drama boom is officially global (and giving Korean dramas a run for their money). With their stylish storytelling, epic historical romances and dazzling melodramas, Chinese dramas have become must-watch TV for international audiences—and the C-drama stars leading the charge are gaining global popularity, as well.
Whether you’re new to the scene or knee-deep in your third palace intrigue binge, these are the actors you need to know right now. They’ve got the talent, the charisma and the kind of screen presence that makes you cancel weekend plans to watch more of them on screen.
Also read: Are C-dramas taking over? 6 Chinese dramas to convert you
1. Xiao Zhan
Breakout role: The Untamed (2019)
One half of the duo that sparked a global fandom frenzy, Xiao Zhan played the soulful Wei Wuxian in The Untamed with haunting charm. Since then, he’s balanced idol status with a growing résumé of serious acting credits, including historical epics and modern dramas. Bonus: he sings, too. This is one of those C-drama stars who can rival his K-drama counterparts.
2. Wang Yibo
Breakout role: The Untamed (2019)
As the stoic Lan Wangji in The Untamed, Wang Yibo won hearts with a single eyebrow raise. A former boy band member, dance competition judge and motorcycle enthusiast, he’s got the multi-hyphenate edge, and the ability to turn even the quietest role into a fan favourite.
3. Dilraba Dilmurat
Breakout role: Eternal Love of Dream (2020)
With her ethereal beauty and expressive performances, Uyghur actress Dilraba Dilmurat has carved out a space as one of China’s top leading ladies. Whether she’s playing a fox goddess or a modern CEO, she brings layered charm and comedic timing to every role.
4. Yang Yang
Breakout role: Love O2O (2016)
A heartthrob with serious range, Yang Yang’s roles span esports idols, military officers and aloof CEOs. He’s got that classic leading-man appeal, but with the emotional intelligence to match. The bonus? Like many C-drama stars, he has a jawline sculpted for dramatic close-ups.
5. Zhao Lusi
Breakout role: The Romance of Tiger and Rose (2020)
The queen of bubbly, time-travel-adjacent heroines, Zhao Lusi is a rom-com favourite who can turn even the most cliché setup into a fresh delight. Her comic timing and self-aware charm make her instantly lovable.
6. Cheng Yi
Breakout role: Love and Redemption (2020)
Known for his intense gaze and tragic roles, Cheng Yi specialises in tortured lovers and doomed soulmates. His ability to cry prettily while wielding a sword is unmatched. If you like your love stories with a side of heartbreak and slow-mo battle scenes, he’s your guy.
7. Bai Lu
Breakout role: Arsenal Military Academy (2019)
She's not one of your typical C-drama stars. With her tomboyish edge and expressive acting, Bai Lu stands out in both historical dramas and modern rom-coms. She has a talent for portraying quirky but heartfelt heroines who feel real, even in the most fantastical settings.
8. Gong Jun
Breakout role: Word of Honour (2021)
Effortlessly charming and devastatingly good-looking, Gong Jun’s turn as the flirty Wen Kexing had fans shipping hard. He brings a warm charisma that plays well in both bromance-heavy period pieces and contemporary roles.
See more: No swords or spells: 10 highly recommended Chinese dramas that aren’t wuxia or xianxia
9. Tan Songyun (Seven Tan)
Breakout role: Go Ahead (2020)
With a girl-next-door charm and serious emotional depth, Tan Songyun is best known for her nuanced portrayals of coming-of-age struggles and slice-of-life relationships. She brings softness and strength to every role and makes the mundane feel cinematic.
