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Once just another stray, now a full-blown star—Da Huang, the adorable "tugou" (Chinese native dog), has taken the C-drama world by storm.
Six years after his unexpected acting debut in Jade Dynasty (2019), this four-legged scene-stealer has built an impressive résumé, appearing in six dramas and two films.
Not bad for a pup who never auditioned!
Da Huang’s latest breakout role?
Playing "Hu Li Jing," the loyal dog of Cheng Yi’s character in Mysterious Lotus Casebook.
His performance was so loved that he even got his own live box during the cast’s promo event for Si Jin.
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Move over, human leads—this pup’s got top billing now!
His rise to stardom started purely by chance.
His owner-turned-agent, Mr. You, recalls how the Jade Dynasty team was looking for local dogs to act alongside Xiao Zhan.
Da Huang fit the bill, and before they knew it, he was sharing the screen with one of China’s biggest stars.
From there, he just kept landing roles, his natural charm making him a favourite on set.
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But beyond just being adorable, Da Huang is making real change.
Thanks to his growing influence, the treatment of animal actors in the industry has improved dramatically.
Mr. You says productions now prioritise their safety and comfort—something that wasn’t always the case before.
And how does Da Huang feel about all this stardom?
"Sometimes he's very happy," Mr. You shares.
"He plays with the cast and crew, and they always prepare delicious treats for him."
Sounds like he's got the dream job—minimal dialogue, maximum snacks.
From rescue pup to certified A-lister, Da Huang is redefining what it means to be a star.
Who needs Oscars when you’ve got belly rubs and gourmet treats on set?