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There are just four more nights to go before Legend of Zang Hai – the highly anticipated period revenge drama led by Xiao Zhan – makes its long-awaited debut on 18 May 2025. Set to premiere simultaneously on streaming giant Youku and state broadcaster CCTV-8, the series is already making waves with over 6 million reservations and counting.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Zheng Xiaolong – the creative mind behind Empresses in the Palace and The Story of Xingfu – this ambitious project is not only visually striking but rich in storytelling depth.
Co-starring Zhang Jingyi of Blossoms in Adversity fame, the drama introduces viewers to a tale of simmering vengeance, layered characters and political intrigue set in the fictional Yong dynasty.
A Hidden Past, A Calculated Revenge
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Xiao Zhan takes on the complex lead role of Zhi Nu, the former son of the imperial astronomer Kuai Duo, whose family was annihilated under mysterious political circumstances. A decade later, Zhi Nu returns to the capital under a new name – Zang Hai – a man reborn, driven by nothing but the pursuit of justice cloaked in vengeance.
What begins as quiet infiltration escalates into a high-stakes game of strategy. Having spent years mastering geomancy, court politics and warfare, Zang Hai sets the stage for retribution.
As he chillingly proclaims: "Killing Lord Pingjin is the only reason I'm alive." This is no reckless vendetta; it is a slow-burn tale of retribution, built upon restraint, calculation and emotional complexity.
#LegendofZangHai Premiering May 18! Get ready for it on YOUKU!
— 优酷Youku (@YoukuOfficial) May 13, 2025
Lead starring:#XiaoZhan as Zang Hai#藏海传 #肖战 #YOUKU #优酷 pic.twitter.com/xQ0bFWhBE5
Beyond Tombs and Into the Mind
While the character of Zang Hai originates from the universe of Daomu Biji (The Grave Robbers’ Chronicles), producer Zhang Ben was quick to clarify that this series is not a tomb-raiding adventure. “There are elements of exploration and suspense,” he said, “but the heart of the story lies in Zang Hai’s personal journey – one man’s evolution through grief, deception, and power.”
A Fierce Rival or a Kindred Soul?
Opposite Xiao Zhan, Zhang Jingyi portrays Xiang Antu, a formidable court lady with a sharp intellect and martial prowess to match. Her dynamic with Zang Hai teeters between alliance and confrontation, further deepening the show’s emotional stakes.
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With a hidden past of her own and motives yet unclear, Xiang Antu becomes a wildcard in Zang Hai’s pursuit of vengeance – and possibly his equal.
The series also boasts a powerhouse supporting cast including veteran actors Huang Jue, Yu Nan, Michelle Chen, Zhang Guoqiang as the Emperor, and Qiao Zhenyu.
As the countdown continues, Legend of Zang Hai is poised to be one of the year’s standout historical dramas. With its combination of stellar performances, compelling plot and lush production, this isn’t merely another tale of revenge – it’s a saga of transformation, justice, and the cost of secrets kept too long.
#ZangHaiZhuan First trailer! Uncover the unknown, fight for your desires. Stay tuned on Youku!#YOUKU #优酷 #藏海传 pic.twitter.com/Ljh1GT87SN
— 优酷Youku (@YoukuOfficial) December 10, 2024